Urinary tract infection is among the most common infectious disease ranking next to upper respiratory tract infection. Therefore, studying bacterial pathogens causing urinary tract infection and their antimicrobials susceptibility patterns are of the highest priority. Infections caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae have become a significant worldwide public health problem. This study was aimed at phenotypic characterization of extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-and carbapenemase producing Klebsiella pneumoniae from urinary tract infection in a secondary health facility in Calabar, Southern Nigeria. One hundred and fifty (150) urine samples were collected, and analyze using standard microbiological techniques on chromogenic agar. A total number of 21 non repetitive clinical bacterial strains were isolated, out of which (9/12; 42.85%) isolation rate falls in the age range greater than 60 years significantly higher at p>0.05 than that recorded for age range 21-31 years (1/21; 5.56%). The female gender showed high 58% isolation rate. Results for the screening of Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates for ESBL- and carbapenemase production revealed (5/21; 23.80%) to be ESBL-producers and (1/5;20%) to be resistant to imipenem antibiotics and were characterized and identified as strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae. Antimicrobials susceptibility profile of ESBL-and carbapenemase producers showed them to be susceptible to streptomycin, imipenem and, sulfonamide, ofloxacin respectively. The findings in this study indicate that age group of over 60 years are prone to urinary tract infection cause by Klebsiella pneumoniae and that one has more of it in the female gender.
Parasitic infections remain a major constraint to aquaculture productivity, yet there is limited understanding of how parasite burden varies with host size in farmed African catfish (Clarias gariepinus). This study investigated the prevalence, intensity, and size-dependent dynamics of gastrointestinal parasites in farmed C. gariepinus from three aquaculture farms in Calabar Metropolis, Nigeria. A total of 90 fish, comprising 30 juveniles, 30 sub-adults, and 30 adults, were examined using a cross-sectional design. Gastrointestinal tracts were dissected and analyzed using standard parasitological techniques, and parasites were identified morphologically. The overall parasite prevalence was 56.7% (51/90), increasing significantly across size classes from 30.0% in juveniles (9/30) to 60.0% in sub-adults (18/30) and 80.0% in adults (24/30) (χ² = 7.89, p = 0.019). Infection intensity also increased with size, with mean parasite loads of 6.4 ± 2.1 in juveniles, 18.7 ± 6.3 in sub-adults, and 28.9 ± 9.4 in adults. A total of 59 parasite occurrences were recorded, dominated by Procamallanus laevionchus (50.0%), followed by Hexamita spp. (28.3%) and Diphyllobothrium latum (20.0%). Although parasite prevalence varied among farms, ranging from 46.7% to 63.3%, these differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The results indicate that parasite burden scales strongly with host size, driven by cumulative exposure and trophic transmission pathways. It is concluded that host ontogeny is a key determinant of gastrointestinal parasitism in farmed C. gariepinus. Regular, size-targeted parasite monitoring and control, particularly in sub-adult and adult fish, is recommended to reduce infection pressure and improve aquaculture productivity.
This paper presents the application of Bessel functions to the Black-Scholes equation with a specific volatility function. The solution to the equation is represented in terms of Bessel functions, and the asymptotic behavior and boundary condition are studied. The first solution was examined empirically: the impact of key factors on the valuation of assets, focusing on options. It highlights how increases in share price and time to maturity, as well as increases in time and volatility, can lead to higher asset values when other parameters are fixed. The results provide a new perspective to the Black-Scholes equation and have implication for option pricing and risk management.
Background: Cataract remains a leading cause of visual impairment and blindness globally, particularly among older adults. While several studies have explored potential determinants of age-related cataract, findings remain inconsistent across different populations and settings. Aim: This study aimed to examine factors associated with age-related cataract among patients attending the Cross River State Eye Care Programme Clinic in Calabar, Nigeria, between 2022 and 2024. Methods: A retrospective descriptive study design was employed. Medical records of 200 patients aged 50 years and above who attended the clinic during the study period were systematically selected and reviewed. Data was extracted using a structured checklist and analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages. Results: Most participants (41%) were aged 71 years and above, and slightly more than half (51%) were female. Among patients diagnosed with cataract, diabetes (20.6%) and hypertension (13.2%) were the most frequently documented clinical conditions, while cooking with firewood (6.6%) and smoking (3.7%) were less commonly reported. Nearly half of the patients (48.5%) had no identifiable documented factors in their records. Conclusion: Diabetes and hypertension were commonly observed among patients with age-related cataract in this setting. These findings highlight the importance of comprehensive clinical assessment of patients presenting with cataract. However, given the descriptive and retrospective nature of the study, causal relationships cannot be established. Further analytical studies are recommended to better understand the determinants of age-related cataract.
This research evaluated the levels of heavy metals and selected environmental pollutants in Lagos State, Nigeria, with particular attention to atmospheric deposition and rainwater quality. Airborne particulates were collected using the gravitational settling technique over a nine-month sampling period (January–September 2023). Funnels and pre-cleaned collection containers were strategically installed at multiple sub-locations across the state to capture sediments which fall from the atmosphere due to human activities. Laboratory analyses of the collected sediments were carried out using spectroscopic methods. The parameters investigated included arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), manganese (Mn), ammonia (NH₃), chromium (Cr), mercury (Hg), chloride (Cl), aluminum (Al), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), potassium (K), nitrite (NO₂⁻), nitrate (NO₃⁻), and fluoride (F). Rainwater salinity and electrical conductivity were also measured. Several locations were considered for the study. The locations include: Chief R. A. Alasoro Street, Sanni Daudu close and Kasali Street. Data obtained from the various locations were averaged to represent statewide conditions, and the geoaccumulation index was applied to evaluate contamination status. The results indicated that cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), aluminum (Al), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), potassium (K), nitrite (NO₂⁻), nitrate (NO₃⁻), and fluoride (F) correspond to an uncontaminated or background level (Class 0). Salinity values suggested moderate to severe contamination (Class 3), posing potential risks to environmental and ecological systems. Nickel (Ni), manganese (Mn), and lead (Pb) were categorized under (Class 2), signifying moderate pollution. Geoaccumulation indices for arsenic (As), mercury (Hg), ammonia (NH₃), and chloride (Cl) were not determined because their concentrations were below detectable limits. These results highlight the need for sustained environmental surveillance in Lagos State, particularly concerning manganese, nickel, lead, and salinity, to safeguard ecosystem integrity and public health. The findings also provide critical baseline data for environmental policy formulation, pollution control strategies, and urban planning initiatives aimed at reducing long-term ecological and human health risks in Lagos State.
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is a respirable mixture of two hydrocarbon-based gases stored as liquid under high pressure. Chronic inhalation of LPG irritates and potentiate inflammation of the bronchi. This study evaluated Pulmonary function of vendors in Calabar metropolis, Nigeria. The following spirometric parameters; forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume per one second (FEV1), peak expiratory flow (PEF) and forced expiratory ratio (FEV1%) were assessed to determined lung function. Demographic parameters, including chest circumference and oxygen saturation were obtained to have adequate information about participants. Five hundred and ten subjects were evaluated in the investigation. The participants were divided into two groups, Group I (test) and Group II (Control). The test group comprised of two hundred and fifty-five LPG vendors, while same number of students from University of Calabar served as control group. All participants were male subjects and of same age range (20-40years), devoid of pre-existing illness and were not on medication(s). Ethical certificate (Reg no: CRS/MH/HREC/2018/610) was obtained from the state Ministry of Health, Calabar. Lung function was measured using a Vitalograph, while oxygen saturation was measured with pulse oximeter. The results showed significant reduction (P<0.001) in the lung function parameters among the LPG vendors (test group) compared to Control group. In conclusion, The LPG vendors showed reduced lung volumes, indicating a compromised lung function associated with obstructive pulmonary pattern.
Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global health threat, with an estimated 1.27 million deaths directly attributable to bacterial AMR in 2019. Increasing evidence indicates that surface waters (rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and coastal waters) act as environmental reservoirs and transmission interfaces for antimicrobial‑resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), driven by wastewater discharge, agricultural runoff, and other anthropogenic pressures. Objective: To synthesize evidence on dominant sources and environmental drivers of AMR in surface waters, map exposure pathways linking environmental reservoirs to people, and highlight practical One Health interventions that reduce public‑health risks. Methods: This narrative review synthesizes peer‑reviewed literature on antibiotics/ARB/ARGs in surface waters, key upstream inputs (wastewater and livestock systems), and studies linking exposure to colonization or infection. Authors should insert the databases searched, search dates, and inclusion criteria to ensure transparency (as required for review manuscripts by the journal). Results: Municipal wastewater and wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluent are widely documented sources of antibiotic residues, fecal bacteria, and resistance determinants. Agricultural systems contribute residues and resistant organisms through manure handling and runoff. Evidence for direct public‑health relevance is strongest for recreational exposure: in the “Beach Bum Survey,” 6.3% of regular surfers carried blaCTX‑M‑positive Escherichia coli compared with 1.5% of non‑surfers (risk ratio 4.09), indicating increased colonization risk under repeated exposure. Severe infections following high‑dose exposure (e.g., near‑drowning events) have also been documented.Conclusion: Surface‑water AMR is a credible public‑health concern through recreation, drinking‑water failures, irrigation/food pathways, and occupational contact. Risk reduction requires antimicrobial stewardship, improved sanitation and wastewater management, safer agricultural water practices, and integrated One Health surveillance linking human, animal, and environmental systems.
Root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne arenaria) is a serious pathogen affecting Indian spinach production. The high rate of infestation of this pathogen on Indian spinach in Calabar has led to decrease in Indian spinach production. Research into the control of M. arenaria was carried out in screenhouse Botanic Garden University of Calabar, Calabar to evaluate the efficacy of poultry manure in combination with inoculum density of Trichoderma reesei in the management of M. arenaria infesting Indian spinach (Basella alba). One gram of spore load of T. reesei at 3.0×107 spore/ml, 2.8×107 spores/ml, 1.30×107 spores/ml and 2.0×106 spore/ml were applied singly or in combination with poultry manure at 0, 5 t/ha, 10 t/ha and 15 t/ha per pot. Soil unamended with poultry manure and un-inoculated with T. reesei serves as the control. There were 20 treatments laid out in a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications. Two weeks old Indian spinach plants were inoculated with 10 ml (3,000) second stage larvae of M. arenaria in soil. The result revealed that Indian spinach plant was highly susceptible to M. arenaria infection as gall index was rated (G.I = 5.00) without poultry manure and T. reesei. Successive increase in poultry manure rates and inoculum density of T. reesei inoculated individually significantly (p<0.05) reduced root gall in plant. Application of various rates of poultry manure in combination with T. reesei significantly (p<0.05) inhibited root galling than single application. Inoculation of T. reesei at 3.0 × 107 spore/ml with 15 t/ha of poultry manure significantly decreased the susceptibility to (GI = 2.00). The combination of T. reesei with poultry manure significantly (p<0.05) enhanced the growth parameters, number of pods and fresh pod weight. The highest fresh pod (101.00 g/ plant) was obtained when 3.0×107 spores/ml of T. reesei was combined with 15 t/ha of poultry manure.
Bridge construction is a growing source of disturbance in tropical river systems, yet its influence on coupled sediment dynamics and stratigraphic organization remains poorly understood, particularly in West Africa. This study investigates post-construction sediment dynamics and morphostratigraphic reorganization at the Idundu reach of the Great Kwa River, Nigeria. An integrated approach combining Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) based geomorphic mapping, bathymetric survey, sediment core analysis, laboratory characterization, lead-210 dating, and hydrodynamic modeling was employed to link surface morphology with subsurface sediment architecture. Results show that channel width decreased from 68.4 ± 5.2 m upstream to 52.7 ± 4.8 m at the bridge, while mean depth increased from 3.8 ± 0.6 m to 5.6 ± 0.9 m, indicating localized scour. Flow velocity increased from 0.42 ± 0.08 m/s in the dry season to 0.86 ± 0.15 m/s in the wet season, with sediment transport rising from 8.4 ± 1.6 kg/s to 22.7 ± 3.9 kg/s. Surface sediments at the bridge became finer, with mean grain size shifting to 2.43 Φ compared to 1.85 Φ upstream, and organic matter increasing to 5.8 ± 0.9% relative to 3.2 ± 0.6% upstream. Stratigraphic analysis revealed a transition from coarse, massive lower units to fine, laminated upper layers, with sediment accumulation rates increasing from 0.72 cm/year in deeper layers to 1.25 cm/year in recent deposits. Hydrodynamic modeling confirmed concentrated erosion at the bridge and deposition zones upstream and downstream, demonstrating disruption of sediment continuity. These findings show that bridge construction induces rapid and measurable morphostratigraphic reorganization in tropical river systems. The study concludes that integrating surface and subsurface analyses provides a more complete understanding of anthropogenic impacts on fluvial environments. It is recommended that sedimentological and morphodynamic assessments be incorporated into bridge design and post-construction monitoring to improve river management and reduce long-term environmental risks.
Fish species composition is the variety and proportion of the different species present in a particular water body during a specified period. It is a key aspect of aquatic biodiversity. It is generally agreed that the analysis of the species composition may provide good knowledge into the impacts of the fishery and other human activities influencing the water body and hence, the fishery of the water body. In this report on spatio-temporal investigation of the fish species composition and abundance of the artisanal fishery of Calabar River, Nigeria, 24 fish spread into 20 different fish families namely: Bagridae, Mormyridae, Chupeidae, Eleotridae, Palaemonidae, Channidae, Schilbeidae, Soleidae, Cichlidae, Hepsetidae, Pomadasydae, Malapteruridae, Characidae, Polynemidae, Osteoglossidae, Sphyraemidae, Monodactylidae, Citharimidae, Sciaenidae and Trichiuridae, were identified. Two of the fish families (Palaemonidae and Sciaenidae) were observed to be the most abundant with 2178 (28.15%) numerical and relative percent abundance, respectively, while the least abundance was Malapteruridae with 3 individuals that formed (0.04%) abundance of the fish caught. The abundance of the fish families was in the following order: Palaemonidae / Sciaenidae > Bagridae > Mormyridae > Cichlidae > Chupeidae > Eleotridae > Characidae > Polyrenidae, > Monodactylidae > Citharinidae > Sphyraenidae> Hepsetidae > Schilbeidae> Pomadasydae > Osteoglossidae > Channidae > Trichuridae > Soleidae > Malapteruridae. From the results of the present study, Calabar River is inhabited by diverse fish species belonging to different fish families. However, there could be more fish species and families in the river system if a seasonal study is undertaken, as the present study is only a preliminary one.
Artisanal fisheries are often challenged by environmental changes and increasing fishing pressure, threatening biodiversity, abundance and local livelihoods. This study examined the seasonal dynamics of fish species composition, abundance, and diversity from April 2024 to March 2025 through monthly sampling at four estuarine sites, captured using traditional fishing gears. Identification and biodiversity assessments encompassed 20 fish species spanning diverse families, analyzed with Margalef’s richness, Shannon-Wiener diversity, evenness, and Berger-Parker dominance indices. Water quality variables including temperature (27.3–29.8°C), pH (6.8–7.3), dissolved oxygen (5.4–7.2 mg/L), and turbidity (11.4–19.2 NTU) were concurrently recorded. Total fish abundance ranged between 261 and 362 individuals monthly, reflecting a diverse assemblage with dominant species such as Tilapia zillii, Clarias gariepinus, and Ethmalosa fimbriata. Margalef’s richness index peaked at 3.75 and Shannon-Wiener diversity at 2.85 in April, indicating maximum biodiversity in the late dry season. Fish density varied spatially, with peak values of 4.0±0.6 individuals/m², underscoring habitat heterogeneity. There were significant (p<0.05) temporal variations in abundance (F=12.45, p<0.001), species richness (F=8.96, p<0.001), diversity (F=9.22, p<0.001), and evenness (F=3.38, p=0.003), showing the estuary’s ecological complexity and seasonally driven community shifts. These findings highlight the critical importance of protecting diverse habitats and implementing adaptive seasonal management to ensure the sustainability of artisanal fisheries in the Cross River Estuary.
This paper presents the derivation, analysis, and implementation of a 3-step hybrid block method for the numerical solution of initial value problems in ordinary differential equations. The proposed method is formulated using a combination of collocation and interpolation techniques, which enables the simultaneous computation of solution values at multiple points within a computational block. The theoretical properties of the method are investigated, including the determination of its order of accuracy, consistency, zero-stability, and convergence. In addition, the stability properties of the method are examined with respect to variational stability parameters. The analysis revealed that the proposed scheme exhibits desirable stability characteristics, including A(α)-stability, A-stability, as well as other regions of stability at different values of stability parameters. Some numerical examples are considered and the results obtained demonstrate that the proposed method is efficient, and its solution converges to exact solution, ZD3for numerical integration of ordinary differential equations.
Aquaculture is challenged by the rising cost of feed and sustainability issues. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of phytogenic feed additives on growth performance and feed efficiency in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Ninety fingerlings (average initial weight 5.2 ± 0.3 g) were distributed into three treatments: control feed, scent leaf diet (10% inclusion), and bitter leaf diet (10% inclusion), and fed for over 60 days. Proximate analysis showed comparable protein levels across diets (31.8 ± 0.6% to 32.5 ± 0.4%), while phytochemical screening revealed higher concentrations of alkaloids (18.7 ± 0.8 mg/100 g), flavonoids (32.1 ± 1.5 mg/100 g), and tannins (20.4 ± 0.9 mg/100 g) in bitter leaves compared to scent leaves. Growth performance indicated that fish fed bitter leaves achieved the highest final mean weight (16.2 ± 0.8 g), followed by scent leaves (13.4 ± 0.7 g), while the control group recorded the lowest (9.2 ± 0.5 g). Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was most efficient in the bitter leaf group (38.1 ± 1.5%), compared to scent leaves (49.7 ± 1.8%) and control feed (67.4 ± 2.3%). Although statistical analysis showed no significant differences (p > 0.05), the consistent numerical advantages of bitter leaf diets highlight their potential as sustainable feed additives. The study shows that bitter leaves promote better growth and feed utilization in Nile tilapia, offering ecological and economic benefits for aquaculture. It is recommended that future research explore long‑term impacts and commercial scalability of phytogenic feed additives.
Skin-lightening practices are increasingly common among young adults in sub-Saharan Africa, influenced by sociocultural beauty ideals that favor lighter skin tones. This study examined the association between skin-lightening cream use and self-esteem among young adults in Calabar Municipality, Cross River State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire from 420 respondents selected through a multistage sampling procedure. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were used for analysis. Findings showed that 46.2% of respondents had poor knowledge, 31.3% moderate knowledge, and 22.5% good knowledge of health risks associated with skin-lightening creams. A greater proportion of respondents demonstrated negative perceptions toward the use of these products. Regarding self-esteem, 43% had low self-esteem, 35% high self-esteem, and 22% neutral self-esteem. Chi-square analysis indicated a statistically significant association between the use of skin-lightening creams and self-esteem (χ² = 20.491; p < 0.05). The findings suggest that skin-lightening practices are related to variations in self-esteem among young adults, although causal direction cannot be inferred due to the cross-sectional design. Public health interventions should focus on improving awareness of health risks and promoting positive body image and self-acceptance.
This project presents the design of solar-wind hybrid alternative energy system for power generation by utilizing both solar and wind energy to generate electrically. Both sources are considered to be renewable. Renewable energy systems are likely to become widespread in the future due to adverse environmental impacts and escalation in energy costs linked with the exercise of established energy sources. Solar and wind energy resources are alternative to each other which will have the actual potential to satisfy the load dilemma to some degree. However, such solutions any time researched independently are not entirely trustworthy because of their effect of unstable nature. In this context, autonomous photovoltaic and wind hybrid energy systems have been found to be more economically viable alternative to fulfill the energy demands of numerous isolated consumers worldwide. But the energy generated from solar and wind is much less than generating clean energy. System controls rely mainly on micro controller which ensures the optimum utilization of resources and hence improve the efficiency as compared with their individual mode of generation. Also it increases the reliability and reduces the dependence on one single source. This hybrid solar-wind power generating system is suitable for industries and also domestic areas.
Background: Nursing students face high-stress environments where rigorous academics and clinical rotations often compromise sleep. In Nigeria, environmental and institutional pressures exacerbate this, potentially impairing cognitive function and patient safety. This study assesses sleep quality among nursing students of Edo State college of nursing sciences and its impact on their academic/clinical performances. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 215 nursing students at Edo State College of Nursing Sciences, selected via stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a validated self-structured questionnaire (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.73). Analysis was performed using SPSS version 27, employing descriptive statistics and Spearman’s Rank Correlation to examine the relationships between sleep quality and academic/clinical performance. Results: Results revealed a high prevalence of poor sleep, with significant difficulty in sleep initiation and frequent nocturnal interruptions. A perfect positive correlation (rs = 0.976, p < .001) was found between sleep quality and both academic/clinical performance, suggesting that sleep deprivation may adversely impact cognitive and professional performance. Furthermore, students reported that suboptimal sleep significantly diminishes emotional resilience, physical health, and career optimism, underscoring sleep as a critical determinant of holistic well-being. Conclusions/Recommendations: The study establishes a critical link between sleep quality and the professional competence of student nurses, with significant correlations found across academic/clinical domains. Persistent sleep deprivation among students poses a direct threat to patient safety and personal well-being. Consequently, nursing institutions should integrate sleep hygiene education into the curriculum and optimize clinical rotation schedules.
This study evaluated the efficacy of Terminalia catappa L. leaf extract in the decontamination of landfill leachate. Leachate samples were collected from the Calabar Lemna municipal dumpsite, Cross River State, Nigeria. Treatment was conducted using three extract concentrations (10, 20, and 30mg/L), alongside an untreated control. A total of 24 sterile bottles were used, each containing 20 mL of leachate treated with aqueous and ethanol leaf extracts of T. catappa. The treated leachate samples were allowed to undergo coagulation for 21 days, after which microbial and heavy metal analyses were performed. The data collected were subjected to a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results from the microbial analysis showed a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in microbial load in leachate samples treated with T. catappa extracts compared to the untreated control. Heavy metal analysis indicated significant reductions in copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), and manganese (Mn) concentrations following treatment with T. catappa extracts, compared to the untreated control. However, cobalt (Co) concentration did not show a significant reduction during the treatment.
Background: Advance care planning can improve care given to cancer patient and possibly lessen intensification of care at the end of life, if awareness and policies are put in place Aims/Objectives: To investigate nurses understanding of advanced care planning, the perceived barriers/difficulties in instituting advance palliative care planning (ACP) measures and how it can be improved for cancer patients. Methods: A qualitative study which employed focus group discussion of nurse managers in two tertiaries health institutions in Nigeria was conducted. 19 nurse managers who are directly involved with the care of cancer patients and their family members were recruited to 2 focus group discussions. Thematic analysis was employed. Findings: Nurses understood ACP to be an important part of practice and the effects of cancer diagnosis on patients/families. They saw that, diagnosis of cancer brings about both psychological, spiritual social and financial difficulties to patient. Four key themes emerged as factors influencing institution of ACP. Perceived barriers included patient, health care provider, financial and social related factors. Furthermore, they recommended public awareness campaign and hospital policies and guidelines to guide nursing practice. Conclusions: Sustainable ACP can only be accomplished by fortifying the provision of a strong team like palliative care team, formulation of guidelines to guide care practice, training and/or continuing education of the team members in the hospital to carry out effective ACP for patients diagnosed with cancer.
Emerging computer innovations are rapidly reshaping and reorganizing some old trends and approaches to several societal tasks across sectors including agro-based activities. Internet of Things (IoTs) refers to networked and embedded physical items (connected devices) for real-time monitoring, automation, and data-driven decision-making. These devices encompass everything from everyday household items to complex industrial tools, configured to support homes and organizations operate more efficiently for increased and enhanced value delivery. The inefficiency of manual operations in gardening, extreme scarcity of smart irrigation system and weak technology adoption practice pose a major setback for gardeners and contributes significantly to low crop yields. The aim of this study was harnessing pertinent computing technique to develop a model of IoT driven smart system for advancing remote garden management with the aid of embedded sensor devices. The system development process adopted object oriented paradigm (OOP), enabling the deployment of “Arduino microcontroller/IDE” programming tool, ESP8266 Node MCU 1.0, blynk app and relevant sensor devices, etc. OOP supports effective classification of each essential system components as independent object, such that failure of one object doesn’t destroy the entire system. This study achieved results with the delivery of a functional model of IoT based tool embedded in smartphone through android based app known as blynk. The tool which was automated for the control of garden irrigation and monitoring process, was tested and was found to be successfully sending out notification on soil moisture and water levels among other functions. It transmitted analog signal to designated microcontroller, which enabled switching the automated water pump in-between appropriate modes (ON/OFF) and triggered corresponding action. These activities improved service efficiency of the system as it ensures regulated water flow and prevention of wastage or excessive water supply with little or no human operational intervention. Given the viability of this tool, it is strongly recommended for adoption as an innovative support system that motivates gardeners, facilitates and advances smart gardening and crop production ecosystem.
Stress has permeated the academic environment worldwide. The highly competitive 21st century environment worsens the situation as academics and academic institutions must strive to remain relevant. The aim of this study was to explore the knowledge, perception and management practices of stress among academic staff of the University of Calabar, Nigeria. This study used a qualitative data collection method. Four focus group discussion (FGD) sessions were conducted, one with female lecturers ranking from graduate assistant to lecturer II, one with female lecturers ranking from lecturer I to professor, one with male lecturers ranking from graduate assistant to lecturer II and one with male lecturers ranking from lecturer I to professor. The total number of FGD participants was 42. Four key informant interviews were conducted, each with a top-ranking officer of the University. The FGD sessions and interviews were tape recorded. Field notes were also taken. After listening to the tapes and reading the field notes several times, the data were transcribed. Thematic analysis of the data was carried out. Participants knew what stress is and could give their definitions of stress. Their definitions encompassed common stressors such as excess workload, poor remuneration, including salary that, according to them, cannot take them to the gate not to talk of taking them home. Other stressors mentioned by them included lack of office space, epileptic electric power supply, lack of incentives and stringent promotion criteria such as publishing in SCOPUS-indexed journals. They agreed that female academics were exposed to more stress than their male counterparts. They had individual ways of managing stress such as taking a nap, relaxation, exercising and listening to music. Peer support strategies for distressed colleagues included pooling funds for them and assisting with official work. Stress is a common phenomenon among the participants. Collaboration and networking with local and international academics, with pooling of resources, could assist the academics in carrying out quality research and publishing in high impact factor non-predatory journals.
