Aba Metropolis Research Articles

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and trace metals contents of Pterocarpus Mildbraedii and Ocimum gratissimum grown near markets within Aba Metropolis, Nigeria: An evaluation of dietary intake risks

Consuming contaminated vegetables is one recognised method that people are exposed to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and trace metals (TMs). For this reason, it is important to constantly keep an eye out for these potentially fatal toxins in vegetables. Eighteen PAHs and TMs were investigated in the leaves of Pterocarpus mildbraedii and Ocimum gratissimum grown near Afule, Ahiaohuru, and Umuocham market locations within Aba metropolis using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for PAHs while an Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrophotometer (ICP-OES) for trace metals and Hg was analysed using a Cold Vapour Atomic Fluorescence Spectrophotometer (CV-AFS). The results from the study showed that Afule samples gave (mg kg-1 PAHs) 6.84, 8.12; Ahiaohuru samples gave (mg kg-1 PAHs) 11.34, 17.68; and Umuocham samples gave (mg kg-1 PAHs) 0.17, 0.16 for P. mildbraedii and O. gratissimum leaf samples, respectively. As per the estimated data, the concentrations of trace metals in vegetables and soil are found in the range of 0.432–6.03 mg/kg for Al, 0.133–0.867 mg/kg for Cd, 0.003–0.840 mg/kg for Co, 1.400–2.933 mg/kg for Cr, 0.933–4.533 mg/kg for Cu, 132.233–198.197 mg/kg for Fe, BDL–0.0002 mg/kg for Hg, 0.002–0.004 mg/kg for Li, 8.007–19.067 mg/kg for Mn, 0.533–1.633 mg/kg for Pb, 0.300–0.667 mg/kg for V, and 2.050–6.103 mg/kg for Zn. The trace metals observed are compared to the literature reported values. It was discovered that the average metal concentrations were below the FAO/WHO maximum allowable values. Every metal in the study had estimated daily intake (EDI) values that were lower than the reference oral dosage (RfD) for that metal. The health risk index (HRI), target health quotient (THQ) and hazard index (HI) values for both vegetables were much lower than 1 implying that the exposed population is safe from potential toxic metal.

Plasmodium Parasitaemia and Urine Alterations among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care in Aba Metropolis, Abia State, Nigeria.

Malaria presents a huge threat to pregnant women, their foetus, and children below five years. This study is aimed at assessing malaria prevalence, associated clinical symptoms, and urine abnormalities among pregnant women in Aba metropolis, Abia State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study involving 450 pregnant women purposively selected from nine health care centres was conducted. Data were analysed using SPSS version 26. The overall malaria prevalence rate was 68.4% (n = 308). Age group of 21-25 years had the highest prevalence rate of 20.4% (n = 92) while the least was recorded among the age group of 41-45 years (17 (3.8%)). Pregnant women in their first trimester had the greatest prevalence rate of 28.6% (n = 129), and the least prevalence was recorded among those in their third trimester (7 (15.6%)). The primigravidae were mostly infected at the rate of 27.7% (n = 125) whereas the multigravidae recorded the least prevalence of 85 (18.9%). Participants with secondary education were the most susceptible at the rate of 38.6% (n = 174). The infected participants exhibited significantly higher frequencies of reported fever (p > 0.001, OR 12.881, 95% CI 3.977-41.725) and headaches (p < 0.001, OR 4.688, 95% CI 1.819-12.083). However, cold, cough, body pains, poor appetite, and catarrh showed no significant association with malaria infection at p > 0.05. Participants using long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) showed significantly lower prevalence rate of malaria infection (p < 0.001, OR 2.485, 95% CI 1.619-3.814). Malaria-infected participants showed statistically significant frequencies of proteinuria (p < 0.001, OR 274.14, 95% CI 16.91-4444.0), bilirubinuria (p < 0.001, OR 49.29, 95% CI 11.01-186.34), and urobilinogenuria (p < 0.001, OR 65.16, 95% CI 4.00-1062.40) than those not infected. Ascorbic acid, nitrate, and ketone showed no significant associations with malaria infection at p > 0.005. Infected participants had statistically significant amber and clear urine colour whereas there was no statistically significant difference between the pH levels of urine of the malaria-infected and malaria-noninfected pregnant women.

Evaluation of Heavy Metals in Auto Mechanics in Aba Metropolis, South East, Nigeria Who Were Exposed to Petrol and Petroleum Products

Background: Every day, humans come into contact with heavy metals in the environment. These metals are widespread throughout the world and are known to affect and create specific biological changes that may be detrimental to the body. Auto mechanics are known to come in contact with these hazardous substances during vehicle maintenance and repair activities, which may lead to the release of heavy metals into the body as well as the environment. Aim: To evaluate the levels of heavy metals that auto mechanics are exposed to from petroleum and petroleum products in mechanic workshops in Aba Metropolis. Study Design: A cross sectional study with a total of 204 participants, 123 of whom were auto mechanics and 81 of whom were non auto mechanics (controls), had blood samples taken from them. Place and Duration of Study: The blood samples were taken from auto mechanic working in mechanic workshop spread around four locations of Aba Metropolis during the period of May 2022 to November, 2022. Samples were analyzed at Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Aba, Abia State and Laboratory Department, JAROS Inspection Services Limited, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Methods: The levels of heavy metals (Pb, Hg, Cd, Cr, and As) in blood were measured using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The Statistical Analysis System (SAS), STAT 15.1 was used to analyse the data from the study. Results: The serum concentration of heavy metals in reducing order, were Cr &gt; Pb &gt; As &gt; Hg &gt; Cd in the exposed individuals while in the control subjects, the order from the highest concentration was; Cr &gt; Pb &gt;As &gt; Cd &gt; Hg. The blood of auto mechanics had a significantly higher level of Pb and Hg than that of non-auto mechanics (p&lt;0.05). Duration of exposure of the auto mechanics to petrol and its product showed an adverse effect from the results gotten in this study. Conclusion: Heavy metal contamination still poses a threat to health and well-being of the auto mechanics in Aba Metropolis.

POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS (PAHS) IN THE FRUITS OF Cucumis sativus FROM TWO MARKETS WITHIN ABA METROPOLIS

ABSTRACT: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were investigated in the fruits of Cucumis sativus obtained from Ahiaohuru and Ehere markets within Aba metropolis. C. sativus obtained from each of these markets was divided into three portions. The first portion was not washed (UW), the second portion was washed with tap water (WTW) while the last portion was washed with an aqueous solution of sodium chloride (WSS) before drying, milling and extraction procedures were applied. Quantification of the PAHs was done using a Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) technique. Eighteen PAHs were analyzed and C. sativus samples from Ahiaohuru market gave a total PAHs content of 30.45, 25.65 and 2.97 mg kg-1 for UW, WTW and WSS, respectively. The samples from Ehere market gave 29.88, 18.82 and 3.06 mg kg-1 for UW, WTW and WSS, respectively. The results obtained from this research indicates that the level of PAHs content in the studied samples decreased when washed with tap water and further decreased significantly when washed with aqueous solution of sodium chloride. From the risk assessment of ?PAH4 (the sum of benzo[a]pyrene, benzo[a]anthracene, benzo[b]fluoranthene and chrysene) in the sample, there was no risk associated with the consumption of the fruity samples. It is however, advisable to wash fruity vegetables with a salt solution as it would reduce the presence of PAHs in them better than washing with tap water alone.

Lipid Profile and Reductive Enzyme Activities in Chronic Alcoholics in Aba Metropolis

Purpose: Chronic alcohol consumption predisposes individuals to several disorders, though, such effect depends on its level of concentration in the blood overtime. To ascertain the effects of alcohol on various tissues and organs of the body, the study evaluated the plasma lipids and reductive enzymes in alcoholics in Aba Metropolis.&#x0D; Methodology: A total of one hundred and fifty subjects comprising hundred alcoholics and fifty age marched non-alcoholics were included in the study. Subjects with chronic diseases or other health issues and subjects with intake of drugs like thiazides, beta blockers and steroids were excluded from the study while those who were regular drinkers met the inclusion criteria for the test group. Both the test group and control group resided within Aba Metropoli. The alcoholic subjects were grouped into moderate and heavy drinkers based on the amount of alcohols consumed per week. Serum was obtained from blood collected from the subjects by venipuncture was used to determine lipid profile and the reductive enzymes. The data obtained were analyzed using statistical package for social science (SPSS version 25) and analysis of variance (ANOVA). Significance level for the analysis was set at P-value equal to or less than 0.05 (P=&lt;0.05).&#x0D; Findings: There was a significant increase in the mean levels of TC, TG, LDL, GGT and LDH in heavy drinkers’ alcoholics when compared to those who consumed alcohol moderately and non-alcoholics (control). In moderate alcoholics, there was significant increase in HDL and decrease in LDL when compared with heavy alcoholics. However, the increase in the assayed parameters in alcoholics suggest that high alcoholic beverages may induce derangement in some biochemical parameters monitored.&#x0D; Recommendation: The study recommend that health awareness to be carried out to inform the public and vulnerable individuals on the risk of chronic alcohol consumption which may predispose them to various health problems.

Effect of Malaria Parasite on Hepatic Parameters in People Living in Aba Metropolis

Purpose: In Nigeria, malaria continues to be a huge public health problem. Incidentally, malaria is caused by either Plasmodium falciparum or Plasmodium vivax. Malaria associated deaths in Metropolis area is mainly due to Plasmodium falciparum. Plasmodium parasite is primarily transmitted by the bite of an infected female anopheles mosquito during blood meal though this can also occur through exposure to infected blood products (blood transfusion) and by congenital transmission. This study therefore aimed at investigating the effect of malaria parasite on hepatocytes by monitoring enzyme activities such as the transaminases and the excretory function of the liver (bilirubin).&#x0D; Methodology: This study was a cross-sectional study where hundred adults participated. A total of 50 patients' samples (adults) both male and female were collected from the same geographic location and fifty were selected as control and another fifty for the test. Examination of a thick blood film stained with Giemsa was done to confirm the presence of plasmodium and its absence as control. The activities of Aspartate transaminase, Alanine transaminase and bilirubin level was determined using Redox enzymatic kit Standard methods. Data obtained were statistically analyzed using students t-test where P&lt;0.05 was considered significant.&#x0D; Findings: There was a positive relationship between the enzyme activities and the level of parasitemia (P&lt;90.05). Derangement in AST (13.30±4.48U/L), ALT (13.9±4.52U/L), TB (3.92± 1.30U/L), CB (0.56 ±0.28U/L) levels for the infected subjects were higher when compared with controls .This study has demonstrated that the invasion of the hepatocytes by the malaria parasite causes the liberation of the transaminase into the blood serum and equally, the excretory function through elevation of bilirubin of the liver was affected.&#x0D; Recommendation: This study recommend transaminases and bilirubin to be assessed to assist in disease detection, prompt diagnosis and intervention especially in endemic malaria area. &#x0D;

Assessment of Serum Level of Highly Sensitive C-reactive Protein (Hs-Crp) and Uric Acid among Adult Athletes in Aba Metropolis

Purpose: The long-term positive effect of physical activity on the incidence of coronary artery disease, hypertension, dyslipidemia, obesity, and life expectancy are well known. This has led to many stressing the importance of exercising to promote optimal health. This study is therefore aimed at evaluating the effect of physical exercise on serum level of highly sensitive C-reactive protein (Hs-CRP) and Uric acid among adult athletes in Aba Metropolis of Abia State.&#x0D; Methodology: Hundred adults were used for the study. Fifty subjects served as control and were randomly selected. The remaining fifty, twenty-five were males and twenty-five were females. Thirteen out of the twenty-five males and females exercise regularly while twelve exercises seldom. However for inclusion criteria the person had to be an athlete and for exclusion criteria, persons with cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, stroke rheumatoid arthritis and those with chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases were excluded. Blood sample was collected by venipuncture and was used to determine Highly Sensitive C-Reactive protein (Hs-CRP) and Uric Acid using Enzyme Linked Immunoassay machine and Semi automated Analyzer respectively. Data generated were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 25), One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and student t- test. Significance level for analysis was set at P-value 0.05 (P=&lt;0.05).&#x0D; Findings: The result from the study revealed that regularly exercising athletes had significantly lower Hs-CRP values than the control group. Observed as well was that regularly exercising athletes had lower HsCRP values than seldom-exercising athletes. Conversely, the uric acid level of those that exercise regularly increased compared to those seldomly exercise. This study has yet added to the need and importance of exercise in order to stay in optimal health.&#x0D; Recommendation: People without health issue should be encouraged to exercise regularly but this should not be outside consulting their health care giver.

Bacteriological Qualities of Water, Hand and Vaginal Swab Samples of Female Adolescents in Aba, South-Eastern Nigeria

Good personal hygiene among adolescent girls is essential for the prevention of bacterial infection. The objective of this study was to assess the bacteriological qualities of water, hand and vaginal swab samples of female adolescents in Aba, South-Eastern Nigeria. Water, hand and vaginal swab samples were collected from one hundred and thirty-four female adolescents residing in Aba metropolis in South-Eastern Nigeria. Sterile swab sticks was used to collect hand and vaginal swabs while a sterile container was used to collect water samples and taken to the laboratory for analysis. Results showed that out of the 134 water samples collected, Staphylococcus aureus was isolated in 47 (35.07%) samples; Escherichia coli 20 (14.93%); Bacillus subtilis; 12 (8.96%); Streptococcus faecalis 34 (25.37%); Enterococcus faecalis 11 (8.21%); Micrococcus luteus; 9 (6.72%). There was a significant amount (P&lt; 0.05) of bacterial load in the water samples. Results also showed that out of the 134 hand swab samples collected, Staphylococcus aureus was isolated in 92 (68.66%) samples; Escherichia coli 24 (17.91%); Bacillus subtilis 17 (12.69%); Streptococcus faecalis 64 (47.76%); Enterococcus faecalis 23 (17.16%); Micrococcus luteus 16 (11.94%). There was a significant amount (P&lt; 0.05) of bacterial load on the hand swab samples. Results also showed that out of the 134 vaginal swab samples collected, Staphylococcus aureus was isolated in 115 (85.82%); Escherichia coli 122 (91.04%); Bacillus subtilis 43 (32.09%); Streptococcus faecalis 102 (76.12%); Enterococcus faecalis 32 (23.88%); Micrococcus luteus 25 (18.66%). There was also a significant amount (P&lt; 0.05) of bacterial load on the vaginal swab samples. In conclusion, there was a significant amount of bacteria isolates obtained from the water, hand and vaginal samples among the adolescent girls. Health education and enlightenment programmes for adolescent girls were recommended. Keywords: Bacterium, Water, Hand, Vagina, Hygiene, Adolescent.

Microbiological Safety of Toasted Ukwa (African Breadfruit) Snack Sold in Aba, South-Eastern Nigeria

A microbiological assay was conducted to assess consumer safety of toasted ukwa (African breadfruit) snack in the Aba metropolis, South-eastern Nigeria. The microbial loads, isolation and identification were carried out by the spread plate agar dilution method. Results indicated that the counts of bacteria ranged from 3.12-7.22x103cfu/g. The fungal counts ranged from 2.11- 5.48x103cfu/g while coliforms were detected in some of the market samples with values ranging from 0.00-0.16x103cfu/g. Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus spp., Streptococcus spp Klebsiella spp. were bacteria isolated from the samples. Aspergillus niger, Fusarium spp., Mucor spp. and Aspergillus flavus were the isolated fungi. No Escherichia coli or other significant pathogens produced by food were identified from the samples. Coliform (Aerobic colony counts) were lower than the International Food Standards (≥ 105cfu/g) and the absence of microbial food-borne pathogens makes these ukwa samples safe for consumption.

Impact of malaria infection on the haematological profile of pregnant women in south-eastern Nigeria

Malaria in pregnancy adversely affects pregnancy outcomes as it increases the risk of spontaneous abortion, stillbirths, premature delivery, and low birth weight. Haematological changes have been suggested as a potential predictor that aid in the diagnosis of malaria infection, therefore, this study was carried out to determine and compare the impact of malaria on the haematological profile of four hundred and sixteen (416) pregnant women attending antenatal care in two major health institutions in Aba metropolis. The blood samples were collected from each of the pregnant women and examined using Giemsa stained thick and thin films for identification of malaria parasite. Complete blood count was also done to determine some of their haematological parameters. Structured questionnaires were administered to the women to obtain information on their age, parity, trimesters, and other socio-demographic data. Out of 416 blood samples examined, an overall malaria prevalence of 193 (46.4%) was obtained in the study area. Women in their early reproductive age, 15-24 years had the highest prevalence rate of 58 (50.3%) while women within the ages 45-54 years had the lowest prevalence 5(41.7%). In relation to their gravidity, malaria prevalence varied significantly among the primigravida with a rate of 102 (61.1%) than the mutigravida 91 (36.5%) (χ2=14.306, P&lt;0.0001). Women in their first trimester showed a significantly higher prevalence rate 98(80.9%) than women who were in their second and third trimesters. The mean values of white blood cell count, red blood cell count, and platelets were statistically lower among the infected pregnant women than in the non-infected control group(P&lt;0.05) except for the WBC which showed no significant difference (P=0.131). It is pertinent that the haematological profile of pregnant women attending antenatal care services is regularly monitored. Malaria prophylactic treatment should be intensified and adhered to reduce the burden of malaria in pregnancy and for better pregnancy outcomes.

Quantification of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons and Some Heavy Metals in Two Leafy Vegetables Grown in Aba Metropolis

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heavy metals were investigated in the leaves of Talinum triangulare and Piper guineense grown near Afule, Ahiaohuru and Good-morning markets within the city of Aba. Quantification of the PAHs and heavy metals (Pb, Cr, Cd, Co, V, Zn, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Al) were done using Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry and Atomic Absorption Spectrometry, respectively. Afule samples gave (mg kg−1 PAHs) 12.11, 5.70; Ahiaohuru samples gave (mg kg−1 PAHs) 7.20, 407.79; Good-morning market samples gave (mg kg−1 PAHs) 22.72, 18.76 while the control samples from Ohanku village gave (mg kg−1 PAHs) 0.27, 9.03 for T. triangulare and P. guineense leaf samples respectively. The range of values of some of the most notorious PAHs detected at the four different locations were benzo[b]fluoranthene (0.62 0.03–0.93 0.02 and 0.04 0.01–152.20 2.53 mg kg−1 PAHs), benzo[k]fluoranthene (0.12 0.01 and 0.99 0.09–72.82 3.34 mg kg−1 PAHs), benzo[a]pyrene (0.12 0.01–1.80 0.07 and 0.89 0.04–81.29 2.50 mg kg−1 PAHs), dibeno[a,h]anthracene (0.08 0.01–1.84 0.05 and 0.12 0.05–38.18 1.77 mg kg−1 PAHs) and indeno[1,2,3-cd]pyrene (0.07 0.02–1.92 0.07 and 0.05 0.01–37.49 2.28 mg kg−1 PAHs) for T. triangulare and P. guineense leaf samples respectively. The concentration of heavy metals in the samples was found to be high. The obtained results indicated that there were PAHs and heavy metal contamination of the samples studied.

Antibiotic resistance and ESBL production in Escherichia coli from various sources in Aba metropolis, Nigeria

BackgroundThe increase in multidrug resistance (MDR) among pathogenic bacteria responsible for infectious diseases has led to lack of effectiveness of some antibiotics. The ability of Escherichia coli to harbor resistant genes has made the treatment of infections a major challenge. This study was carried out to assess antibiotic resistance and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) production of E. coli from various sources in Aba metropolis, Nigeria.ResultsFrom a total of 350 samples collected from clinical and non-clinical sources, 137 were presumptively identified as E. coli by standard phenotypic methods and 83 were confirmed as E. coli by the detection of E. coli specific 16S rRNA gene fragments. The majority of these isolates (52, 62.7%) were from non-clinical sources. The clinical isolates, however, exhibited a higher level of resistance against 62.5% of tested antibiotics. Both group of isolates exhibited similar levels (58.1% vs 53.9%) of MDR, though. A low rate of ESBL production was observed (1.2%) following phenotypic detection of ESBL-producing abilities using the double-disc synergy test. An assessment of the presence of three beta-lactamase gene genotypes (blaTEM, blaSHV and blaCTX-M) revealed that none of the three predominant ESBL genotypes was identified in this study.ConclusionsThis study reports high levels of antibiotic resistance in both clinical and non-clinical E. coli isolates. Though higher rates of resistance were observed among the non-clinical isolates, both group of organisms had similar levels of MDR. Strikingly, however, was the low level of ESBL producers detected in this study and the absence of the three main genotypes associated with ESBL production in this study.

Inflammatory Markers in Workers Occupationally Exposed to Petrol and Petroleum Products

Place and Duration of Study: Sample: Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Aba, Abia State and Laboratory Department, JAROS Inspection Services Limited, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, between April 2018 and June 2018.&#x0D; Methodology: A total of 204 samples comprising of 123 auto-mechanics and 81 non -auto-mechanics were assayed. Detailed information of the bio-data of the subjects including age, gender, medical history, health information and lifestyle were obtained from each participant. Blood samples were collected from for the analysis of inflammation markers, IL-6, TNF-α and CRP were determined using standard methods and techniques. The effect of age and duration of exposure on the inflammation parameters were considered. Statistical Analysis System (SAS), STAT 15.1, developed by SAS Institute, North Carolina State University, USA was used for statistical analysis. Data were presented as Mean ± SEM, comparison of means of groups that are more than two was done using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and the Tukey test of multiple comparison was used to test for variance within and across groups.&#x0D; Results: There was significant increase in the means of IL-6, TNF-α and CRP in the exposed subjects (p &lt;0.05) compared with the control subjects There was no significant difference (p &gt;0.05) in the means of IL-6, TNF-α and C-reactive protein (CRP) between the age groups of the exposed and the control subjects. Similarly, there was no significant difference between the groups, based on duration of exposure. This suggests that the toxic effect does not depend on the age or duration of exposure but on other factors for the automechanics in Aba. &#x0D; Conclusion: This study shows that the exposure of automechanics may significantly increase the serum IL-6 TNF-α and Hs-CRP levels. Increase in the serum levels of the inflammation markers is predictive of the danger of future pathology in automechanics compared with non automechanics in Aba metropolis. Age and duration did not influence significant variation in the automechanics.

Power Supply Fluctuation and Sales Performance of Frozen Foods Business: A Study of ABA Metropolis. Nigeria

One of the essential requirements for output growth in the frozen food business is adequate electricity supply. The electricity supply bane has brought about the acquisition of expensive power back up facilities in the form of plants, generators, and inverters to augment stable electricity supply. The study therefore, investigated power supply fluctuation and sales performance of frozen foods in Nigeria. In line with the objectives of the study, two hypotheses were formulated. The descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The population of the study comprised of twenty (20) frozen food firms in Aba with a sample size of sixty (60) respondents which was conveniently drawn from our population of interest. A structured questionnaire based on the five-point Likert scale was used in data collection. Frequency and percentages were used in analysing both the personal data of the respondents. While Kendall tau_b was employed in analyzing the hypotheses formulated. The findings revealed that a significant relationship exists between erratic power supply and profitability; alternative source of power supply and profitability. We therefore, recommended amongst others that, Government should encourage competition in the power sector, rather than the monopoly the electricity company is currently enjoying. They need to be proactive and embrace the renewable energy which would lead to decentralization of power supply, create more jobs, lead to lower costs, and cleaner environments. Keywords: Power, supply, fluctuation, erratic power supply, alternative power supply, profitability, sales performance DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/13-15-02 Publication date: August 31 st 2021

Parasitic Contamination of Local Drinking Water Sources in Aba Metropolis, Abia State, Nigeria

Water-borne parasitic infections have become a source of concern in recent times due to the contamination of various water sources. A survey on the parasitic contamination of local drinking water sources in Aba metropolis was carried out between August and October 2018. This was done to evaluate the extent of contamination of these water sources and their public health implications. A total number of eighty (80) water samples were investigated from five (5) major water sources within the study area using the standard sedimentation method and examined for parasite cysts, eggs and larvae. Physical/macroscopic examination was done to determine the pH, colour, odour, temperature and presence/absence of particles. Among the water sources analyzed, stream water samples had the highest rate of parasite contamination 27 (44.3%) followed by river water 14 (22.9%) while the least contaminated was borehole 7 (11.5%). Rainwater was found free from parasitic infestation. The differences in the level of contamination among the water sources analyzed were found to be statistically significant (P&lt;0.05). Five parasites Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia, Ascaris lumbricoides of Entamoeba coli and Hookworm were observed. Each of the sample sources except rainwater harbored at least one of these. Among these parasites, Giardia lamblia had the highest rate occurrence of 15 (24.6%), followed by Entamoeba histolytica 14 (22.9%) and the least frequently occurring parasite was hookworm 8 (13.1%). Most of the identified water sources are utilized by the populace who lack access to potable water. The detection of protozoan and helminthic parasites in drinking water sources is a serious public health concern, hence the proper implementation of a supply of safe drinking water is vital.

Microbial load of healthcare wastes in Aba Metropolis, Abia State

Introduction: Healthcare waste is the total waste both solid and liquid from healthcare establishment and laboratories. A hospital produces waste by giving their services to the patients. Purpose: This study examined the microbial load of waste from selected healthcare facilities in Aba metropolis, Abia State.&#x0D; Methodology: Tenfold serial dilution was used for processing of all the samples. After the dilutions, exactly 0.5ml of each the sample was planted on the media using the spread plate method and evaluated using the standard microbiological techniques.&#x0D; Results: The viable count (TVC) ranged from 1.0×103cfu/g to 0.3×108cfu/g, coliform count (TCC) ranged from 0.4×102 cfu/g to 4.2×104 cfu/g, staphylococcal count (TSC) ranged from 1.0×101 cfu/g to 1.4×102 and fungal counts ranged from 2.0×102 cfu/g to 0.8×103cfu/g in the microbial count of various waste samples within the Aba metropolis, Abia State. The laboratory waste had the highest microbial counts, followed by the Out-patient department waste and the least was the pharmaceutical waste. The microorganisms isolated from the hospital wastes were Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Aspergillus niger, A. Fumigatus, Candida albicans and among others.&#x0D; Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: This research has revealed that healthcare waste contained pathogens with high microbial load densities, suggesting that the hospital wastes may pose a major health and environmental threat, if not properly managed. The study recommends that, the government should ensure that there is a policy on hospital waste management in line with recommended international best practices, which should be monitored and enforced.

A Partial Environmental Engineering Management Study of Open Dump Site and Its Impact on Land and Water

This research appraises in partial the environmental engineering effects of open dumpsite with peripheral study of the dumpsite at km 3 Aba-Enugu Expressway in Abia State southeast of Nigeria. The investigation includes visual assessment, interviews / questionnaires results, and analysis. The study reveals that the waste dump serves as a sink to many parts of Aba metropolis being one of the biggest dumpsites in Abia state. The sand value of 47.7% obtained from the study agrees with existing literature/hydrogeology of the area. Results proved that the ground water is safe as samples display quality, which are below the Nigerian standards for drinking water quality limit. These values also fall below the World Health Organization (WHO) water quality limit so the residents around do not stand any health risk at the moment. However, increasing concentration of pollutants indicates that the Soil and probably the potential drinking water source may be contaminated with time, supporting existing study. Therefore, this research recommends a well-engineered waste management plan alongside Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) cradle-to-grave approach to management of open dumpsite.

A Partial Environmental Engineering Management Study of Open Dump Site and Its Impact on Land and Water

This research appraises in partial the environmental engineering effects of open dumpsite with peripheral study of the dumpsite at km 3 Aba-Enugu Expressway in Abia State southeast of Nigeria. The investigation includes visual assessment, interviews / questionnaires results, and analysis. The study reveals that the waste dump serves as a sink to many parts of Aba metropolis being one of the biggest dumpsites in Abia state. The sand value of 47.7% obtained from the study agrees with existing literature/hydrogeology of the area. Results proved that the ground water is safe as samples display quality, which are below the Nigerian standards for drinking water quality limit. These values also fall below the World Health Organization (WHO) water quality limit so the residents around do not stand any health risk at the moment. However, increasing concentration of pollutants indicates that the Soil and probably the potential drinking water source may be contaminated with time, supporting existing study. Therefore, this research recommends a well-engineered waste management plan alongside Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) cradle-to-grave approach to management of open dumpsite.

EVALUATION OF LEVELS OF POTASSIUM BROMATE AND SOME HEAVY METALS IN BREAD AND WHEAT FLOUR SOLD IN ABA METROPOLIS

Background: Bread is a baked staple food made from wheat flour and is widely consumed in all parts of Nigeria among all socio-economic groups.Method: 32 different brands of bread with 12 different brands of wheat-flour sold in Aba metropolis, South Eastern Nigeria were evaluated for both potassium bromate and some heavy metals. Bromate determination was carried out using spectrophotometric method while heavy metals were done by the flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Results: The results of the analysis revealed that all the bread samples contained potassium bromate at concentrations above the permissible limit allowed by the US FDA while the concentrations in wheat flour samples were within the acceptable limit with ranges from 0.27 ± 0.04 – 3.78 ± 0.26 mg/kg and 00-1.52 ± 0.28 mg/kg respectively. The values of heavy metals in bread ranged as follows Zn (3.22 ± 0.05 – 7.25 ± 0.24 mg/kg), Pb (0.05 ± 0.01 – 0.45 ± 0.02 mg/kg), Mn (44.28 ± 0.5 – 78.25 ± 1.24 mg/kg), Cu (0.31 ± 0.04 – 0.49 ± 0.12 mg/kg) and Co (0.04 ± 0.01 – 0.24 ± 0.03 mg/kg) while in wheat flour, the ranges were as follows; Zn (3.85 ± 0.04 – 5.03 ± 0.10 mg/kg), Pb (0.06 ± 0.02 – 0.15 ± 0.04 mg/kg), Mn (47.30 ± 0.38 – 70.20 ± 1.02 mg/kg), Cu (0.36 ± 0.02 – 0.46 ± 0.13 mg/kg) and Co (0.07 ± 0.01 – 0.21 ± 0.03 mg/kg). Conclusion: The values of these metals are within the permissible limits except Pb and Mn which were above the normal limits that can be detrimental to human health.

Fungal profile associated with spoilage of smoked catfish sold in Aba, Abia State, Nigeria

Fungi associated with spoilage of smoked catfish (Clarias gariepinus) were evaluated using standard microbiological methods. A total of twenty five (25) samples were collected from Afule, Ariaria, Umugasi, Cemetery and Ahiaohuru markets in Aba metropolis and were analysed. Fungal loads ranged between 2.2 × 103 ± 0.02 SFU/g and 4.5 × 104 ± 0.14 SFU/g. Four (4) fungal species were isolated to include two molds; (Aspergilus niger, Mucor species) and two yeasts; (Candida species, Rhodotorula species). The most prevalent isolates were Aspergilus niger (80 %)and Mucor species (73.33 %), while the least prevalent was Rhodotorula species (6.67 %). Identified qualities of these fungi were their degradative ability which was observed during pathogenesis study as they render the catfish unfit for consumption with high virulence in causing major mycotic infections. Therefore, there is need for education and awareness campaign among handlers and sellers on proper hygiene practices to avert the imminent health hazards looming the economy from the shabby handling and processing techniques.