Southeastern Nigeria Research Articles

Evaluation of natural radioactivity levels and radiation hazards of Nkalagu limestone deposit, southeastern Nigeria.

Levels of natural radioactivity due to 40K, 232Th, and 226Ra in limestone deposits and corresponding surface soil samples from the Nkalagu community of Ebonyi State were investigated. Gamma spectroscopic analysis using a NaI (TI) detector was employed to measure the activity concentrations (ACs) of the natural radionuclides in the collected samples. The average AC of 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K was found to be 64.62 ± 11.63, 54.27 ± 8.52, and 313.06 ± 25.33Bq/kg, respectively, in limestone, whereas in the soil, the value was 60.80 ± 11.71, 44.97 ± 10.74, and 185.90 ± 18.20Bq/kg, respectively. Except for 40K, the obtained mean ACs of the radionuclides were in excess of the worldwide averages reported by the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effect of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR). The mean value of Raeq, Hex, Hin, Iγ, and AUI was obtained as 166.33Bq/kg, 0.45, 0.62, 1.18, and 1.28, respectively, in the limestone, and 139.42Bq/kg, 0.38, 0.54, 0.98, and 1.12, respectively, in the surface soil. The radiation doses in limestone ranged from 120.78-168.89 nGyh-1 and 63.86-88.88 nGyh-1 for indoor and outdoor, respectively, whereas in the soil, the range was 104.47-129.77 nGyh-1 and 54.60-68.02 nGyh-1 for indoor and outdoor, respectively. The total annual effective dose ranged from 0.671 to 0.937 mSvy-1 with an average of 0.800 mSvy-1 in limestone and 0.579 to 0.720 mSvy-1 with an average of 0.667 mSvy-1 in the soil. Values of representative gamma index and activity utilization index, and indoor and outdoor radiation doses in limestone were above the recommended world average of ≤ 1, and 84 nGyh-1 and 59 nGyh-1, respectively, suggesting a restriction in the use of the limestone in construction of houses. The study therefore recommends that the use of limestone in building construction, especially in house interiors, should be discontinued.

Evaluation of Mpox Surveillance System in Imo State, South-eastern Nigeria

Evaluation of Mpox Surveillance System in Imo State, South-eastern Nigeria

Corporate Governance and Business Resilience in the Banking Industry

The unstable banking business environment and ethical questions that bedeviled the industry have opened new windows for researchers and policymakers on how best to tackle the menace. But as researchers keep pace on how best banking institutions can remain unperturbed with preparation for future adversities and bearing in mind the shareholders' wealth, the concept of resilience becomes the beacon of hope for managers and directors alike. 139 participants drawn from ten interest-deposit money banks in south-eastern Nigeria were selected for this inquiry. The result of this study demonstrated that corporate governance predicted business resilience positively. It was concluded that corporate governance that is predicated on board independence, board size, board effectiveness, leadership quality, and accountability would strengthen the resilience of interest deposit money banks. This study recommends that managing directors of interest deposit money can leverage corporate governance measures utilized in this study to strengthen the resilience capability of their organisations.

Geochemical study of heavy metals in samples from dumpsites at Onitsha, Anambra Basin, Southeastern Nigeria

Core (0-60cm) samples were collected from selected dumpsites at Onitsha and control site at Awka, Nigeria. Physiochemical parameters (particle size distribution, cation exchange capacity (CEC), pH, Organic Matter (OM in %)) and heavy metals (Lead (Pb), Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn), Chromium (Cr), Nickel (Ni), Aluminium (Al), Cobalt (Co), Molybdenium (Mo), Cadmium (Cd), Manganese (Mn) and Silicon (Si)) were analyzed using standard methods. The result of the physiochemical analysis shows that the samples were generally sandy with acidic pH values (4.89-6.24); OM ranged from 5.693-27.71%; CEC ranged from 0.072-0.62(Cmol/kg). Comparatively, DS 5 (Obosi) has the highest levels of these heavy metals followed by DS 2 (Woliwo). The order is Bida < Okpoko <Obosi 1 < Woliwo < Obosi 2. The levels of these heavy metals were above the control values. They were equally above national and international guidelines. Enrichment Factor (EF) values varied between no enrichment to extremely severe enrichment. Pollution load index (PLI) indicated that all the sampled sites were polluted while the ecological risk of heavy metals varied between low contamination to high contamination. The prevailing indiscriminate disposal of wastes occasioned by nonexistence of appropriate disposal facilities is the direct cause of the situation. Proactive measures and regular environmental monitoring must be taken to minimize further deterioration as the contaminants pose serious deleterious effects on human and soil organisms.

Effect of Spacing and Planting Time on Growth, Yield and Yield Components of Mustard (Brassica nigra L.) Cultivar in Unwana, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

A field experiment was conducted at the Department of Horticulture and Landscape Technology teaching and research farm during 2022 cropping season, to investigate the effect of spacing and planting time on the growth, yield and yield components of mustard in Unwana agro-ecology of Southeastern Nigeria. Two (2) planting time and six (6) plant spacings were evaluated in a split-plot fitted in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three (3) replications. The factor A was time of planting (March and August), which occupied the main plot while factor B which was plant spacing (20x15cm, 30x15cm, 40x15cm, 50x15cm, 60x15cm and 70x15cm) occupied the sub-plots. Data were collected on plant height, leaf number, total yield, straw yield, oil yield and oil content at harvest. Result obtained showed that the growth, yield and yield components of mustard were significantly (P˂0.05) improved by time of planting and plant spacing used. March time of planting increased seed yield and yield components seed yield (102.90gha-1), straw yield (25.97gha-1), oil yield (654.10kg/ha), and oil content (41.56%) than August planting time (39.40gha-1, 20.93gha-1, 477.50kg/ha and 39.02% seed yield, straw yield, oil yield and oil content, respectively. On the other hand, result revealed that the plot planted with 20x15 plant spacing significantly increased the plant height and leaf number (18.98cm and 16.62) at 4WAP, respectively with the corresponding total yield (103.20gha-1) than other plant spacing used. The result showed that it was more productive to grow mustard at closer spacing (20x15cm) as depicted by the yield and yield components advantages.

Prevalence and pattern of self-medication with antibiotics among residents of Abia State, Southeastern Nigeria: a call for action

Background: Antibiotic self-medication occurs worldwide, and it is a major driver of antibiotic misuse and antimicrobial resistance. In developing countries like Nigeria, antibiotics are frequently sold as over-the-counter medications. There is a need to explore this pattern, aiding stakeholders in informed decision-making. We assessed the prevalence and pattern of antibiotic self-medication among the residents of Abia State. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among eligible adults in the State with respondents selected using the multistage sampling technique. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to obtain information from the respondents. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 26 and the level of significance was set at 5%. Results: A total of 1,491 respondents were surveyed. The mean age was 34.7±13.1 years and females constituted 55.7%. The overall prevalence of antibiotic self-medication was 46.5% (95%CI: 43.9-49.1). The majority of the respondents took self-medication for cough (48.6%) and ampicillin/cloxacillin was the major antibiotic used (30.1%). The reason for antibiotic self-medication mostly reported was the perception of minor illness (62.7%). Most (52.4%) of the respondents got the antibiotics from pharmacies without prescriptions. The predictors of antibiotic self-medication included residence (aOR=2.44, 95% CI: 1.12-5.30), retention of previous prescriptions (aOR=10.98, 95% CI: 4.40-27.47), storage of leftover antibiotics (aOR=4.13, 95% CI: 1.79-9.54) and perceived susceptibility of antibiotic self-medication (aOR=4.96, 95% CI: 1.71-14.39). Conclusions: Close to half of the residents practiced antibiotic self-medication with its pattern identified. We recommend tailored strategies including appropriate health education and enforcement of regulatory policies to promote community antibiotic stewardship.

Assessing the Nexus Between Landscape Degradation and Flooding in the Niger River Catchment, Southeastern Nigeria: A 40‐Year Geospatial Dynamics (1992–2022)

ABSTRACTThis paper examines the relationship between landscape degradation and flooding in the Niger River catchment of Onitsha, Nigeria, over a 40‐year period (1992–2022), focusing on changes in land use and land cover characteristics. Satellite images were preprocessed and classified using Anderson's classification technique. Erdas Imagine GIS software was adopted to carry out change analysis for each of the classes generated. The Landsat images for all the years (1992, 2002, 2012, and 2022) were acquired for the months of July (wet season) and December (dry season) and analyzed. The trends in seasonal changes in land use and land cover characteristics were prominent in the wet season. This was significantly seen in changes for water body and vegetative area. Built‐up areas and open spaces indicated a decrease during the wet season compared to the dry season. The notable changes occurred in water bodies and vegetation across the studied years, peaking in 1992 with 1628.82 ha for water bodies and 8993.79 ha for vegetation. In 2012, these values were 2040.93 and 8977.5 ha. The largest seasonal shifts were in vegetative areas in 2012 and built‐up in 2022. After analyzing the geospatial data according to the classifications, the study uncovers a notable link between landscape degradation and increased flood susceptibility. Notably, the findings highlight that shifts in these landscape features during the wet season significantly impact flood occurrence, emphasizing the critical role of landscape degradation in exacerbating flood risks in the region.

‘When extramarital sex threatens patriarchy’: the iwushi-miri rite among Mgbowo women of southeastern Nigeria

This study argues that not every instance of extramarital sexual intercourse among the Igbo women of southeastern Nigeria is adulterous. Using the sex-related rite of iwushi-miri (pouring of water) among the Mgbowo women of southeastern Nigeria (Igboland) as an example, the study explores the different means that the women have used in negotiating extramarital relationships, and sexual behaviours in the traditional, colonial and Christian patriarchal environments. The study brings together both ethnographic and feminist cultural resistance research to appraise the distinctions between punishable and culturally permitted extramarital sexual practices, and to highlight the role that extramarital sexual culture played in resisting the patriarchal domination of female sexuality in the age of empire. It also explores the challenges and the responses of Mgbowo women in negotiating extramarital relationships in a modern-day patriarchal setting. It sets out to explore how women’s sex power, agency and influence have been silenced in the colonial archives and mainstream scholarship. Through semi-structured interviews, the analysis of material culture, and participant observation, this study provides insight into traditional sexual culture(s), marital intercourse, and sex-related rituals among Mgbowo women.

The gaps and strengths towards effective infection prevention and control on a background of knowledge attitude and perception on COVID-19 among undergraduate students in Southeastern Nigeria: a multicentre online cross-sectional survey

The advent of the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic posed a serious health burden locally and globally as it altered people’s daily activities due to restrictive preventive measures instituted by countries and health authorities to curb its spread like wildfire. The undergraduate population remains at the epicentre for the spread and curbing of COVID-19. This study assessed the knowledge, attitude, and perception of COVID-19 among undergraduate students in Southeastern Nigeria. The gaps and strengths achieved towards effective infection prevention and control in the eastern states were assessed. This was a cross-sectional online population-based survey conducted among undergraduate students attending Universities in 5 states (Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo), located in Southeastern Nigeria from June 29 to July 20, 2020. A structured pre-tested questionnaire was designed for the Google survey tool (Google Forms), and the generated link was shared with students online. From a total of 1,012 respondents from Universities in Southeastern Nigeria, 560 (55%) were females and 452 (45%) were males. The overall mean age of the respondents was 21.63±0.65years. The age distribution did not vary considerably across states (t=-0.007, p=0.995>0.05). The majority (93.8%) of the respondents were Igbos, Yorubas, and Hausas accounting for 2.6% and 0.4% respectively while 3.3% did not identify their ethnic group. Christians (96.0%) were dominant compared to Islam (2.7%) while traditionalists and other non-captured worshippers accounted for 0.5% and 0.8% respectively. Most of the respondents were in second and fourth years in the university. The variation across the states is statistically significant ( =112.01, p=0.000<0.05). The respondents identified that their main source of information concerning COVID-19 was social media (26.9%). The level of knowledge was highest among people in Anambra state (78.0%); followed by those in Enugu state (74.3%), those in Abia state (72.2%), those in Imo state (70.8%), and lastly, by those in Ebonyi state (65.4%). The participants’ attitudes about COVID-19 safety practices were on average moderately positive (49.2%) with the best result in Imo state (60.5%), followed by Abia state (55.3%), Ebonyi state (52.4%), Enugu state (42.9%) and lastly Anambra state (35.1%). In summary, the respondents’ general perception of the realness, infectiveness, and source is positive (>50.0%) in all the Southeastern states. The knowledge, attitude, and perception of COVID-19 among undergraduate students in Eastern states, of Nigeria were appreciable but a lot has to be done in terms of enhanced public health education, positive behavioural changes as well as proactive preventive measures to curb the progress of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Etiological Agents of Superficial Surgical Site Infections among Post Operative Patients Attending a Teaching Hospital in Southeastern Nigeria

Surgical site infections (SSI) are infections at or around the site of incision where surgical procedure is conducted. It is a major cause of hospital morbidity, resulting in prolonged hospital stay, increased treatment costs, higher rates of re-operation, and even increased mortality rates. The etiological agents of superficial surgical site infections among post-operative patients attending a Teaching Hospital in Southeastern Nigeria were evaluated using standard microbiological methods. Seventy superficial surgical wound swab specimens were properly and aseptically obtained from post-operative patients after ethical clearance was duly obtained from the hospital’s ethical committee. Pure microbial cultures were obtained after 24 - 48 hours incubation, aerobically at 25oC, on blood, nutrient and Sabouraud’ Dextrose agar plates. The isolates were identified based on their morphological, physiological, biochemical and molecular characteristics. Out of the 70 surgical swab specimens collected, 81% were bacterial isolates which included Staphylococcus aureus 41%, Escherichia coli 16%, Pseudomonas aeruginosa 14% and Staphylococcus xylosus 10%. The fungi isolates (19%) were Candida tropicalis 8% and Trichosporon asahii 11%. These isolates were probably endogenous and exogenous flora from the patients’ and hospital’ environments respectively; thereby necessitating the need for adequate patient care before, during and after surgical procedures.

Establishing the convergent and divergent validity of the Return-to-Work Assessment Scale among poststroke survivors

ABSTRACT Background: Stroke is a leading cause of disability worldwide, for which the concept of return to work (RTW) plays a crucial role in rehabilitation. The RTW Assessment Scale (RAS) was first developed to assess RTW among poststroke survivors; however, its validity requires further investigation. This cross-sectional study therefore aimed to determine the convergent and divergent validity of the RAS among poststroke survivors in Southeastern Nigeria. Methods: This cross-sectional study in Southeast Nigeria evaluated the convergent and divergent validity of the RAS in 101 poststroke survivors. The purposive sampling technique was used to select eligible individuals from several randomly selected locations. Consecutive participants who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled in this study. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients were used for data analysis. Results: The RAS exhibited strong convergent validity with the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule scores (r = −0.874 to −0.529), indicating a significant relationship between RTW and overall disability. We further observed a weak negative correlation between the RAS scores and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores, with correlation coefficients (r) ranging from r = −0.371 to −0.235, indicating a lesser association between RTW and pain perception of VAS, suggesting divergent validity of RAS. Conclusion: The study concluded that the RAS demonstrated strong convergent and divergent validity, affirming its reliability in assessing RTW among poststroke survivors.

Potentially Toxic Metals Enrichment in Soils of Ishiagu Mining Community, Southeastern Nigeria

This Study was carried out to evaluate potentially toxic metals enrichment, pollution and potential ecological risk in the soils of Ishiagu. The concentrations of Cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr), Cobalt (Co), Copper (Cu), Lead (Pb), Manganese (Mn), Nickel (Ni), Zinc (Zn), Aluminum (Al) and Iron (Fe) in soil samples from the area were analyzed by Bureau Veritas Laboratory, Vancouver, Canada, using inductively-coupled plasma optic emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Descriptive statistics, enrichment factor, pollution load and potential ecological risk indices were employed to analyze the data in order to understand the characteristics of potentially toxic metals in the study area. The potentially toxic metals statistic show the mean values (mg/kg-1 ) of Pb, Zn, Mn, Fe, Al, Cd, Cr, Ni, Co, and Cu to be 205.7, 162, 527, 35892, 11374, 1.3, 21.6, 15, 14.6 and 11.1 respectively. The soil enrichment varied considerably between mining and non-mining areas with mining area being extremely enriched with Pb, Zn and Cd, and significantly enriched with Co, Cu, Ni and Fe. Non- mining areas are minimally enriched with all investigated metals. The soils around the mines are polluted with Pb and Cd, where both metals also pose very high ecological risks.

Nutrient composition of shade-dried Aldenia cissampeloides (monkey rope) leafy vegetable

Background: Our locally available vegetables are underutilized due to lack or insufficient information about their health benefit. Consequently, some are going into extinction due to low consumption. Adenia cissampeloides, a locally available vegetable used in the preparation of vegetable soup and or some therapeutic purposes is becoming unpopular due to insufficient nutritional and other information on it. Objective: The study investigated the nutrient composition of shade-dried Aldenia cissampeloides leafy vegetables. Methods: Fresh leaves of Adenia cissampeloides were harvested from Opi in Nsukka local Government Area of Enugu State in South Eastern Nigeria. The leaves were sorted, washed with water, and allowed to drain in a colander for about 20 minutes. The leaves were shade-dried for 7 days at room temperature and pulverized using Qlink electric blender model QBL/20L40. The proximate, mineral, and vitamins of the pulverized dried sample were analyzed using standard methods. Results: The proximate analysis showed an appreciable amount of carbohydrate (42.86%), crude fiber (16.79%), and protein (16.44%). Magnesium (2046.69mg), potassium (1031.33mg) and calcium (555.33mg) was the most abundant mineral while pro-vitamin A had the highest value (298.56 RE) among the analyzed vitamins. This was indicative that the vegetable is a good source of nutrients. Conclusion: Due to its nutrient-dense quality, it is recommended to be cultivated at home gardens for easy accessibility in meeting the family’s nutrient needs.

Distribution of soil fertility indices in aggregate size fractions under different land-use types for coarse-textured soils of the derived savannah

The research investigated the distribution of soil fertility indices among aggregate-size fractions across three land-use types (forested, cultivated, and fallow lands) for loamy sand at Ede-Oballa, a derived savannah in southeastern Nigeria. Surface soil samples from these land-use types were air-dried and separated into <0.25 mm, 0.25-0.5 mm, 0.5-1.0 mm, 1.0-2.0 mm, 2.0-4.0 mm, and 4.0-8.0 mm aggregates before analyses. There were significant interaction effects of land-use type and aggregate-size fraction on the distribution of soil particle sizes (sand, silt, and clay) and contents of total nitrogen, available phosphorus, exchangeable bases (Mg2+ and Na+), and exchangeable acidity as well as apparent cation exchange capacity (CEC). Land-use type affected soil pH, K+, Ca+, and percent base saturation but not soil organic carbon (SOC), which was rather unevenly distributed among the aggregate-size fractions. The distribution of most fertility indices, those defining CEC, and SOC content favoured >2.0 mm (large), 0.25-0.5 mm and <0.25 mm (micro-) aggregates, respectively, under cultivated land. However, soil total nitrogen and exchangeable acidity contents were best improved in the largest (4.0-8.0 mm) aggregates under forested and fallow lands, respectively. The study highlights the potential of land-use types generally and arable-crop cultivation specifically to engender aggregates of different sizes with specific roles in improving soil quality and fertility.

Healthcare Concern: The High Rate of Diabetes in Southeastern Nigeria

Diabetes mellitus is an escalating public health crisis globally, and its impact is profoundly felt in Southeastern Nigeria, where the prevalence of diabetes stands at approximately 24%, significantly higher than both national and global averages. This review examines the epidemiology, risk factors, health impacts, and management challenges associated with diabetes in this region. Key contributors to the high diabetes rates in Southeastern Nigeria include genetic predispositions, rapid urbanization, lifestyle changes, and socioeconomic disparities. The health implications of diabetes are severe, encompassing complications such as neuropathy, nephropathy, and cardiovascular disease, which lead to a diminished quality of life and increased mortality. Challenges in managing diabetes are compounded by inadequate healthcare infrastructure, limited access to specialized care, and cultural factors influencing treatment adherence. Effective strategies for diabetes management in Southeastern Nigeria require comprehensive public health interventions, enhanced healthcare infrastructure, and culturally tailored educational programs. Future research should focus on filling gaps in epidemiological data, understanding rural healthcare barriers, and evaluating the effectiveness of targeted interventions. A collaborative approach involving government, healthcare providers, and communities is crucial for mitigating the diabetes burden and improving health outcomes in the region. Keywords: Diabetes mellitus, Southeastern Nigeria, epidemiology, risk factors, healthcare challenges, public health interventions.

Modifying supply chain strategies to address regulatory compliance challenges: Lessons from South Eastern Nigeria

Regulatory compliance was an essential component of contemporary corporate operations, guaranteeing conformity to laws, rules, and standards controlling different aspects of organisational activity. Businesses operating in South Eastern Nigeria encounter complex obstacles to regulatory compliance, such as currency depreciation, the dynamic nature of data protection legislation, and the increasing global integration of supply chains. This report offers valuable insights into the intricate process of adjusting supply chain strategies to address regulatory compliance difficulties in South Eastern Nigeria. The paper examined regulatory compliance difficulties and their effects on supply chain dynamics by conducting a thorough literature review and analysing current research. Devaluing currency led to changes in import/export levies, tariffs, and customs procedures, which need quick and adaptable actions to ensure compliance and competitiveness. In addition, the digitalization of corporate operations intensified the issues of ensuring data security and privacy compliance. This necessitated investing in technological solutions and adopting proactive risk management strategies. Despite these difficulties, firms in South Eastern Nigeria adopted a range of tactics, such as implementing compliance management systems, diversifying suppliers and markets, and engaging with regulatory agencies, to successfully modify their supply chain strategies. The results emphasised the significance of taking proactive actions, engaging in strategic planning, and fostering cooperation among relevant parties to effectively address regulatory compliance obstacles and maintain competitiveness in the global market. Keywords: Adherence to regulations, Techniques for managing supply chains, Depreciation of currency, Safeguarding data, Region of South Eastern Nigeria.

They Do Not Eat a Wife’s Beauty: The Ethnopragmatics of Bette Proverbial Personal Names

Names and naming practices convey various nuances of meaning in the Bette sociocultural setting. Against this significant backdrop, this study examines proverbial names as figurative and overt communicative strategies among the Bette people of northern Cross River State in south-eastern Nigeria. The qualitative data were elicited through semi-structured interviews and informal interactions from purposively selected twenty name-givers and ten name-bearers of Bette proverbial names. Data were analysed using the ethnopragmatic theory, an approach to language study that sees culture as playing a central explanatory role in meaning-making. Besides functioning as discursive strategies through which people’s worldview is embedded, proverbial names serve as sociocultural sites through which interpersonal relationships are performatively constructed and maintained. This study enriches our understanding of how the Bette people use proverbial names as tools of social control to perform gender, strengthen communal bonds, enhance peaceful coexistence, and enact Indigenous worldview among themselves.

In vivo Antifungal Efficacy and Safety of Natural Compounds for Topical Treatment of Cutaneous Candidiasis

In vivo toxicity and antifungal therapeutic evaluation of selected natural compounds for topical applications was analyzed using standard methods. The natural compounds, blue vitriol, brimstone, trona, alum, palm ash and black stone were hygienically selected and purchased at a local market in southeastern Nigeria. The test organisms were isolated from high vaginal swab specimens obtained from cases of cutaneous candidiasis. The isolates were identified based on their morphological, physiological and molecular characteristics. The toxicological screening of the test samples was done using Draize’ skin irritancy test, Murine local lymph node assay (LLNA) and necropsy. The in vivo evaluation of antifungal activity of the solutions was done using eight-week-old albino rats weighing 120g – 150g. The animals were infected with the Candida isolates percutaneously; and treated using various formulations of the natural compounds. The skin sections were carefully observed for histopathological changes, before and after treatment. The total yeast counts of the infected skin tissues were also determined. The isolates include Candida albicans, C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis and C. tropicalis. Draize’ skin test and Murine local lymph node assay showed no observable skin irritancy reaction (P>0.05). The normal skin architecture of the infected animals was restored after 5 days of treatment with the test samples; while the total yeast count decreased from 108 CFU/mL to 102 CFU/mL. The findings have revealed that natural compounds are effective as well as non-toxic topically, in treatment of cutaneous candidiasis.

Appraisal on heavy metal contamination in tissues (gills, intestine, liver, and fillet) of <i>Parachanna obscura</i> and the physicochemical properties of Oguta Lake, South-Eastern Nigeria.

The aim of this study is to provide baseline data on the investigation of concentrations of copper (Cu), lead (Pb), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) in various tissues (gills, intestine, liver, and fillet) of Parachanna obscura in Oguta Lake, and to assess physicochemical properties of Oguta lake to determine level of pollution and contamination. Twenty fish samples in total were collected at the fishermen landing site of the lake and analyzed using the Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). Dissolved oxygen and temperature were measured on site using dissolved Oxygen meter (model 5509) and Mercury-in-glass thermometer respectively, while other parameters were analyzed in the laboratory. Results indicated Fe had the highest concentrations (1.479±0.003 mg/kg) especially in the gills, while Mn recorded least concentrations (0.001±0.000) mg/kg) of all metals analyzed. Values for Cu (0.026±0.002 mg/kg), Mn (0.001±0.000 mg/kg), Zn (.782±0.015 mg/kg), and Fe (1.479±0.030 mg/kg) levels were within FAO/WHO permissible limits in all tissues, whereas Pb (1.438±0.015 mg/kg) exceeded standard limits especially in the gills and intestines, indicating potential contamination and threats to aquatic and human health. Heavy metal concentrations in the tissues followed the order: gills > intestine > fillet > liver. The physicochemical properties assessment of Oguta Lake indicated a stable temperature with mean value of (28.02±022 C). The lake's temperature supports aquatic life, but challenges like low transparency (1.22±0.13 m), acidic pH levels (5.83±0.09), elevated ammonium levels (0.63±0.03 mg/l), low nitrate-nitrogen levels (0.0±50.00 mg/l), and fluctuating dissolved oxygen (6.50±0.29 mg/l) levels suggests pollution from agricultural runoff or sewage. The findings proffer effective management through pollution control, enhanced buffering capacity, and rigorous monitoring to safeguard biodiversity and ensure longterm ecological health.

Investigation of hydrochemical characteristic, water quality and associated health risks of metals and metalloids in water resources in the vicinity of Akamkpa quarry district, southeastern, Nigeria

Quarrying of rock aggregates generates produced water that, if not handled properly will be a source of pollution for nearby water bodies, thus affecting the chemistry of the water. This study examined the chemistry, impact of quarrying activities on water resources and the health consequences/risks posed by ingestion of the water by humans in the Akamkpa quarry region in southeastern Nigeria. Thirty (30) water samples consisting of pond water, stream water, hand dug wells, and borehole samples were collected and analyzed for their physicochemical parameters using standard methods. The results obtained from the analyses indicated that the water was moderately acidic, fresh, and not salty, with many parameters below the recommended standards with Ca2+, and HCO3− being the dominant ions present in the water resources. Rock weathering processes including silicate weathering as illustrated by hydrochemical facies, cross plots, and Gibbs diagrams are the dominant mechanisms influencing the quality and major ions chemistry of the water resources with minor contributions from dissolution, anthropogenic activities, and ion exchange. Ca-Mg-SO4-Cl and Na–K-HCO3− are the most important water types. Although the water quality index shows that the water is suitable for human use and irrigation, the mean values of As, Cd, Pb, and Se are above the acceptable limits. Additionally, the calculated contamination factor revealed the water resources are moderate to highly contaminated by As, Cd, Cr, Mo, Pb, Sb, and Se, and are therefore unsuitable for consumption with regards to these parameters. However, the residual sodium carbonate and water hazard index (WHI) values showed that 38% to 90% of sites in the quarry area were unsuitable for cultivation, 10–30% were in the low to medium impact category, and 60% were classified as risky and are from high to very high impact category. A non-cancer study of inhabitants living in the vicinity of the quarry area indicated that 6.7% of the sites have values greater than one, indicating that it may endanger the health of the people. Therefore, constant monitoring of the water quality is recommended as long-term use of contaminated water can harm humans, plants, and soils.