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Impact of Cultural and Societal Factors on Stigma and Psychological Distress Experienced by Breast Cancer Patients in Abuja, Nigeria
Get PDFThis study was carried out to evaluate the impact of cultural and societal factors on stigma and psychological distress experienced by breast cancer patients in Abuja, Nigeria. Structured questionnaires were administered to collate data on the significance of stigma and psychological distress on breast cancer patients, as well as risk factors and their impacts on breast cancer patients in Abuja. The Distress Thermometer (DT) of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) was used to evaluate distress, while the hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS), was employed to evaluate emotional distress. A total of 348 respondents, comprising patients diagnosed with breast cancer aged 18 years and above in 2024, were considered for the study in three oncological centres in Abuja, Nigeria. Results of the study revealed that all respondents had experienced different forms of stigmatization due to their cancer status and lived with the feeling of being judged due to cancer, a total of 65.8% experienced discrimination from family and friends, 36.8% from strangers, 24.4% were discriminated by colleagues while 8.6% experienced discrimination from health workers. 44.5% of the respondents frequently experienced negative attitudes from people, 26.4% always had some forms of negative attitudes while 7.8% rarely experienced negative attitudes. The study established the prevalence of cancer care challenges such as stigmatization, cultural misconceptions, inadequate social and psychological support and limited access to medical services in healthcare centers in Abuja, Nigeria. Addressing these barriers requires a multi-faceted approach including public health education, expanded mental health services and improved healthcare infrastructure
WOODY PLANT DIVERSITY AND CARBON STORAGE ASSESSMENTS IN URBAN SECONDARY SCHOOLS, LAFIA, NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA
Get PDFDespite the importance of urban greenery, research on trees in urban schools remains sparse. Hence, this study investigates woody plant diversity and carbon storage in three secondary schools in Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria: Government Science School (GSS) Lafia, GSS Shabu, and GSS Tundun Kauri. Using systematic and random sampling, five plots per school were analyzed for tree diversity, with biomass measurement obtained through allometric equations. Tree diversity was quantified using Shannon and Simpson indices, while carbon storage and CO2 equivalent were calculated from the biomass data. At GSS Lafia, Plot 2 (West) had the highest species diversity (Shannon index: 1.367, Fisher’s alpha: 3.538), while Plot 5 (Central) had the lowest (Shannon index: 0.3488, Fisher’s alpha: 0.7972). At GSS Shabu, Plot 2 (West) had the highest diversity (Shannon index: 1.082, Simpson’s 1-D: 0.6563), whereas Plots 1 (East), 4 (North), and 5 (Central) had no diversity. GSS Tundun Kauri’s Plot 2 (West) showed the highest diversity (Shannon index: 0.6931, evenness: 1), while Plots 2, 4, and 5 had none. Regarding carbon storage, GSS Shabu\u27s Plot 2 (West) had the highest carbon storage of 15,3356.44 kg and CO2 equivalent of 562.31 tons. In contrast, Plot 5 (Central) at GSS Tundun Kauri had the lowest carbon storage with 16,535.68 kg and CO2 equivalent of 60.63 tons. GSS Lafia\u27s Plot 2 (West) contributed significantly with CO2 equivalent of 164.29 tons and carbon storage of 44,808 kg. These findings emphasize the need to maintain tree diversity for optimal carbon sequestration and urban green space management
Identification and Control of Postharvest Fungal Contaminants of Sweet Potato (Ipomea batatas L.) In Lafia
Get PDFPostharvest rot leads to huge yield losses of potato annually. A study was conducted to identify and control fungi causing postharvest tuber rot of sweet potato in Lafia. Infected tubers were collected from sales points in Lafia, and conveyed to the Plant Science Laboratory, Federal University of Lafia. Infected tissues were collected from the rotted tubers using a sterile scalpel, surface sterilised in 70% ethanol, and cultured for 3-5 days on PDA. Based on cultural and microscopic morphology, fungi isolated were identified under four genera, namely Mucor, Aspergillus, Candida, Fusarium. A total of 13 isolates were obtained, of which Aspergillus niger and Candida sp. had the highest number of isolates 4(30.77%), followed by Mucor racemosus 3(23.08) and Fusarium sp. 2(14.39). Pathogenicity test of the identified fungi showed that of the four identified species, Aspergillus niger produced tissue rot on the tubers, beginning from the first week (8.67 mm) to second week after inoculation (10.00 mm). Tuber rot produced by A. niger differed significantly from the other fungi as well as the uninoculated control (P≤0.05). Test of bioefficacy of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Moringa oleifera in the control of A. niger showed that ethanolic extracts of Moringa oleifera produced higher and significantly different growth inhibition of A. niger compared to the extracts of Zingiber officinale (P<0.05). The study revealed that extracts of Moringa oleifera and Zingiber officenale hold promising prospects in the development of biofungicides for the management of postharvest tuber rot of sweet potato
Creating Variability in Sunflower (Helianthus annuusL.) using Induced Mutation
Get PDFThe study was conducted to assess the effect of chemical mutagen (dimethyl sulphate) in creating variability in sunflower to improve the growth and yield productivity of the sunflower. Three different sunflower varieties (SAMSUN 1, SAMSUN 3, and SAMSUN 4) were collected from the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR) Zaira, Kaduna State. They were exposed to T1/0.25%, T2/0.50%, T3/0.75% and T4/1.00% of dimethyl sulphate for 3hrs. The treatments with control were laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) in three replications in the research garden of the Department of Botany Federal University of Lafia, during the cropping season of 2021/2022. Observation and data were collected for some growth and yield parameters such as days to 50% germination on 15th day, days to flowering, number of leaves, plant height(cm), stem diameter (cm), head diameter (cm), seed yield per plot (g), seed yield per plant (g), 100-seed weight (g), seed volume weight (g/100 ml), hull content (%).The data collected were subjected to a two way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) using Genstat Discovery Edition Version 12.1 software and LSD (Least Significant Difference) was used to separate mean difference at P ≤ 0.05 level of significance. The result showed that SAMSUN 1 variety had the highest plant height (171.7cm) at T1, seed yield per plant (41.9g) at T2 and hull content (34.71%) at T1. The SAMSUN 3 variety proved to be superior for number of leaves (18.93) at T4 and head diameter (24.91cm) at T2 while SAMSUM 4 performed better for parameter like 50% germination at 15 [(DAS) (50.0%)] at T4, earliest days to first flowering (50.27) at T4, seed yield per plant (438.1kgha-) at T2, seed volume weight (33.4g/100ml) at T3 and 100-seed weight (8.02g) at T2. The correlation coefficient showed both positively and negatively significant correlation between the growth and yield parameters. The highest positive significant correlation was observed between stem girth and head diameter (0.816) and the highest negative significant correlation was between seed volume weight and head diameter (-0.484)
Comparative Analysis of the Nutritional and Anti-nutritional Compositions of Mango (Mangifera indica), Pawpaw (Carica papaya) and Pineapple (Ananas comosus) Sold in Lafia Modern Market, Nigeria
Get PDFThe study examined the nutrition and anti–nutritional compositions of mango, pawpaw and pineapple using standard analytical techniques. The result of proximate composition showed that mango has higher fat, ash, crude fibre, moisture, carbohydrate, fatty acid and energy contents than pawpaw and pineapple, while pawpaw has higher crude protein value than mango and pineapple. The antinutrient composition of the samples revealed that pineapple has higher oxalate, alkaloids, tannins and phytate than mango and pawpaw. The results of amino acid composition revealed that Leucine was the most concentrated essential amino acid (EAA) in mango, pawpaw and pineapple, with the values of 4. 61, 5.02 and 5.60 g/100 g cp respectively. It was also found that Tryptophan was the least concentrated essential amino acid in the three samples with a value of 0.84, 0.92 and 0.63 g/l00 g in mango, pawpaw and pineapple, respectively. The calculated isoelectric points (pI) for mango, pawpaw and pineapple fruits were 6.09, 6.83 and 5.97, respectively. The P–PER values were 1.83, 1.67 and 1.80 for the mango, pawpaw and pineapple fruit samples, respectively. The study revealed that the three fruits were good sources of nutrients needed by the body and were low in anti-nutrients. Their consumption is highly recommended
Fatty Acid Profiles, Physicochemical Characteristics and Phytosterols of Three Underexploited Fruit Kernels and Pulps from North-East, Nigeria
Get PDFThis paper examines the fatty-acid profiles, physicochemical properties, functional lipid indices and phytosterol composition of oils in the kernels and pulps of three underexploited fruits namely; Hyphaene thebaica (Doum palm), Diospyros mespiliformis (Jackal-berry), and Detarium senegalense (Sweet detar) as found in North-East Nigeria. The standard analytical techniques were used for different analyses. Physicochemical measurements indicated obvious species- and tissue-specific differences, Doum palm kernel having the highest acid and viscosity, and peroxide levels were low in all samples, meaning there were minimal oxidative damages. The oils were anaesthetized by colour parameters (CIELAB) as being light, with mild rates of the green-yellow liquids and sample-specific brightness. The fatty-acid analysis showed the highest level of myristic acid (8.27 %) in jackal-berry kernel and the highest content of oleic acid (30.20 %) in sweet detar pulp. Linoleic and α-linolenic acids were present in physiologically relevant amounts, the highest values recorded in jackal–berry pulp (28.50 %) and jackal–berry kernel (16.83 %), respectively. The quality of lipid indices showed positive nutritional profiles with MUFA/SFA and PUFA/SFA ratios being over 1.00 with low atherogenicity and thrombogenicity indices and ω-6/ω-3 ratios in the anti-inflammatory range values. Phytostersol analysis revealed that sweet detar pulp has the highest sitosterol (0.823 mg/100 g) and ergosterol (0.653 mg/100 g); doum kernels showed high level of campesterol (0.747 mg/100 g) and avenasterol (0.83 mg/100 g). Generally, these results highlighted the nutritional value, biochemical composition, and functional prospects of these underexploited fruit oils, thereby recommending them as foods, nutraceutical and cosmetic ingredients
The Use of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Software for Drafting Patterns for Training Students of Home and Rural Economics College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Lafia
Get PDFThis study explored the use of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software for drafting patterns for training students of Home and Rural Economics in Nasarawa State. Four research questions guided the study which include; what is type of CAD software suitable for pattern drafting? How can CAD instructional materials be developed effectively for students training? What is the importance of integrating CAD into pattern drafting education? What are the challenges of using CAD software in teaching pattern drafting? Research and Development (R&D) design was adopted. Fifty respondents, comprising staff and students of the Department of Home and Rural Economics, College of Agriculture, Science, and Technology Lafia, participated. Structured questionnaire titled “Questionnaire on the Use of CAD for Drafting Patterns as Instructional Material Questionnaire (CADPATTIQ). A Four point rating scale of Strongly Agreed (SA)4, Agreed(A)3, Disagreed(DA)2, and Strongly Disagreed. (SD)1.CAD software such as CorelDraw and Auto CAD were used to develop basic garment patterns including; bodice, skirts, trousers, and sleeves. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and evaluated using mean and Standard Deviation analysis. The results indicated that the use of CAD enhanced precision, creativity, speed, and technological literacy among students. The CAD materials were highly accepted, and respondents agreed that CAD offers significant economic and educational advantages. It is recommended that CAD be integrated into tertiary clothing and textile curricula to better align students with modern industry demands
Gastro-Intestinal Parasites of Some Cultured and Wild Fish Species in the Southern Part of Nasarawa State Nigeria
Get PDFThe ever-growing demand for animal protein to address the rising malnutrition indices of developing nations has led to the flourishing of the fishery and aquaculture industry. But the safety of these processed fish species which come from both wild and cultured sources has been of interest to researches for some time. A comparative assessment of the gastro-intestinal parasites of cultured and wild species of Clarias gariepinus and Oreochromis niloticus was therefore carried out in the Southern part of Nasarawa State. Microscopic examination of the guts of 90 fishes, comprising 60 Clarias gariepinus and 30 Oreochromis niloticus revealed the presence of helminths (cestodes, nematodes and trematodes), algae and some insect larvae. A total of 17 (18.88%) of Clarias gariepinus and 8 (8.88%) of Oreochromis niloticus were infected with gastro-intestinal parasites, giving an overall prevalence of 27.77%. Cultured Clarias gariepinus and Oreochromis niloticus were less infected with parasites than wild species with a statistical significance of P = 0.0034 in this relationship. Also, Clarias gariepinus were found to be more infected with parasites than Oreochromis niloticus. Different species of algae were found in Orechromis niloticus while various stages of insect larvae were found in Clarias gariepinus only; an indication of their feeding habit and the niche they occupy in the aquatic ecosystem. Trichinella specie was found in some of the Clarias gariepinus examined, emphasizing its carnivorous tendencies
Yield Variability Studies and Proximate Analysis of Two Varieties of Maize (Zea mays L.) Exposed to Iron Oxide Nanoparticles
No full textA study of yield variability studies and proximate analysis of two maize varieties (Sammaz-S2 and Bida maize) was conducted at the Botanical Garden of the Department of plant Science and Biotechnology, Federal University of Lafia during the 2024 cropping season. Four concentrations of iron oxide nanoparticles (0 RPM, 20 RPM, 40 RPM, and 80 RPM) were prepared and applied as a foliar spray to maize varieties at thrice. The experiment was set in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Number of cobs per plant fresh and dry weight of 100 seeds were used to determine the yield variability, moisture, ash, carbohydrate, protein and protein were checked for proximate composition. The results showed, that Sammaz-S2 performed better, with increased cob numbers and improved seed traits at 20 RPM, while Bida maize showed limited response. At 40 RPM, both varieties experienced reduced productivity, indicating nanoparticle toxicity, though partial recovery at 80 RPM suggests stress adaptation. Fresh seed weight increased at 20 RPM, particularly in Bida maize, reflecting enhanced hydration, while dry weight peaked at 40 RPM, suggesting optimized nutrient storage. Proximate composition analysis showed increased ash and carbohydrate content at moderate doses but reduced moisture and fat levels with higher nanoparticle concentrations. Protein and fiber responses were based on genotype type. These findings demonstrate the potential of iron oxide nanoparticles to improve maize productivity and nutritional quality when used at optimal doses, emphasizing the importance of dose calibration to avoid toxicity
Trust-Aware Energy Optimization Techniques in Mobile Ad-hoc Networks: Current Trends and Future Directions
Get PDFThis systematic review paper provides a comprehensive analysis of recent advancements in energy optimization techniques for Mobile Ad-hoc Networks (MANETs). MANETs play a critical role in modern communication systems, enabling dynamic and decentralized networking in various applications, including disaster recovery, military operations, and remote sensing. However, energy consumption remains a significant challenge due to the limited power resources of mobile nodes, directly impacting network performance and lifespan. In recent years, optimization techniques such as metaheuristic algorithms, adaptive transmission power control, and machine learning models have shown remarkable potential in addressing these challenges by enhancing energy efficiency and prolonging network lifetime. This paper reviews the current trends in energy optimization for MANETs, including trust-aware routing protocols, clustering methods, and advanced mobility models like the Gauss-Markov model. Additionally, it provides a detailed analysis of the simulation parameters and metrics used in the studies, highlighting their applicability and limitations. The review also identifies key areas for future research, such as developing lightweight and scalable algorithms, integrating heterogeneous network technologies, and refining mobility and traffic models for more realistic simulations. The paper concludes by summarizing the key findings of the systematic review and emphasizing the importance of continuous innovation in energy optimization strategies to enhance the sustainability and reliability of MANETs. This review serves as a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners, guiding the development of robust and efficient networking solutions