Abnormal parameters in urine can be a sign of some pathologic conditions and more especially in pregnancy because it will constitute a danger sign to both the fetus and her mother. But if detected on time can be treated or managed for the good health of the fetus and the would be mother. Women with glycosuria in the first and second trimester had a significantly higher incidence of developing gestational diabetes and those with proteinuria have a higher chance of developing preeclampsia in the course of their pregnancy. This study was to determine the presence and/or absence of abnormal parameters in urine of pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in two districts of Jos south LGA, Plateau state. A total of 90 consented pregnant women from three different hospitals: Primary health care Vwang, Mercy seat hospital and Vom Christian hospital were enrolled alongside 90 non-pregnant women who served as our control. Their urine was examined for presence and/or absence of some abnormal parameters in urine that include glucose, protein, bilirubin, urobilinogen and ketones. 8 (8.9%) of pregnant women had at least one abnormal parameter found in their urine with age group 31- 40 years having the highest number of participants 4 (4.4%) with abnormal parameters while age group 41-50 years had no participants with any abnormal parameters found in her urine. Based on trimester, 2nd and 3rd trimester had equal number of participants 4 (4.4%) with abnormal parameter found in their urine while those in 1st trimester had no participants with any abnormal parameter seen in her urine sample. This study found out that all abnormal parameters noted among the pregnant women was equally seen in non-pregnant women that served as control except that of protein in urine which can be termed as pregnancy induced proteinuria. Women should be encouraged to register for their antenatal care and carry out their routine antenatal test screening in order to detect any abnormal parameter that may constitute a danger sign to both the women and her fetus.

This study examined the influence of education, age, gender, and marital status on work ethic among Ghanaian professionals. Using a quantitative cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 370 professionals across various sectors, including education, healthcare, finance, public administration, and engineering. Structured questionnaires measured respondents’ demographic characteristics and dimensions of work ethic, including diligence, discipline, and motivation. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent samples t-tests, and multiple regression analysis. The findings revealed that age, education, and marital status significantly predict variations in work ethic, with older, highly educated, and married professionals exhibiting higher levels of conscientiousness, discipline, and commitment. Gender, however, did not significantly influence overall work ethic, suggesting that male and female professionals demonstrate comparable professional behavior in Ghana. The study underscores the importance of considering demographic factors beyond gender when promoting ethical work practices and offers insights for designing policies that enhance professional productivity, fairness, and employee engagement in organizational settings.

Rice straw, an abundant agricultural residue, presents a valuable resource for sustainable agriculture when converted into compost. This study evaluates the performance of rice straw-derived compost as an effective biomanure in enhancing soil fertility and crop productivity. The compost was prepared through controlled aerobic decomposition and characterized for nutrient content, pH, and organic matter. Field trials were conducted to assess its impact on soil health parameters and crop yield compared to conventional fertilizers. Results demonstrated significant improvements in soil nutrient availability, moisture retention, and microbial activity, leading to increased crop growth and yield. The findings suggest that rice straw compost is a viable, eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fertilizers, promoting circular agriculture by recycling crop residues and reducing environmental pollution.

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major cause of liver inflammation and remains a significant global health challenge. The infection can manifest as either acute or chronic disease, leading to severe complications such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. HBV is transmitted through exposure to infected blood and body fluids, sexual contact, and vertical transmission from mother to child. Despite global control efforts, the disease burden remains disproportionately high in low- and middle-income countries. In Cameroon, HBV prevalence exhibits substantial geographic and demographic variability, underscoring the need for context-specific epidemiological studies and tailored public health strategies to mitigate transmission and improve disease management. Objectives: This study aimed at determining the Seroprevalence and risk factors of viral hepatitis B infection among students at the University of Bamenda in order to intensify awareness, preventive measures and the need of proper immunization Methods: This was a school-based cross-sectional study conducted at the University of Bamenda, located in the North West Region of Cameroon. A total of 200 students were enrolled. Data on socio-demographic characteristics and potential transmission modes were collected using self-administered questionnaires. Rapid diagnostic tests were employed to detect hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in each participant. Furthermore, Statistical analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 in order to determine seroprevalence and to assess associations between infection and selected risk factors. Results: Of the 200 participants sampled, females recorded the highest prevalence of HBV infection (7.6%), while the highest infection rate by age group was observed among students aged 30 years and above (10.2%). The Faculty of Science (FS) exhibited the highest institutional prevalence (22.2%). Infection was more common among single (7.7%) and Christian (7.6%) participants. Homosexuality was the only risk factor significantly associated with HBsAg positivity. However, elevated prevalence rates were also observed among participants with a history of blood transfusion, unprotected sexual activity, sharing of fomites, longer campus stay, and limited knowledge about HBV Conclusion: This study found the seroprevalence of HBV infection among students of the University of Bamenda to be 7.7%, suggesting that the infection is highly endemic in this population according to WHO standards. These findings highlight the urgent need for intensified awareness campaigns, routine screening, and vaccination programs among students to enhance HBV prevention and control in university and community settings.