bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Infrastructure in Ibadan Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Olatunji Solomon , Yoade Adewale , Adeyemi Sesan
Published: May 2021

The study examined the quantity and quality of infrastructure in Ibadan, Nigeria with a view to using the information to provide policy guidelines for sustainable infrastructural development. Using stratified sampling technique, a total of fifteen wards from the five local government areas in Ibadan metropolis were selected for study. The selection of all the local government areas is based on the fact that all of them cut across all the residential zones in the metropolis and they all topologically converge at the center of the city. Primary data for the study were sourced through the questionnaire administered on 1,035 respondents (2% of household heads in all the residential buildings in the metropolis), using systematic sampling technique. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed to analyze the data earned. Findings established that 93.14%, 92.27%, 75.07%, 68.99% and 68.02% of the residents had access to nursery/primary school, market, secondary school and mosque respectively. Moreover, while maternity center was accessed by 66.57%, communication facility was used by 58.16%. Although, library was available and accessed by residents, its usage was the least (5.22%) in the study area. The five facilities that residents were very dissatisfied with were waste disposal facilities, nursery/primary school, security/police post, recreational facilities and transport network. The study revealed that facilities such as water supply, restaurant, dispensary, drainage, electricity supply, waste disposal, and fire station, were insufficiently available in the study area. Thus, the study concluded that infrastructure facilities in Ibadan metropolis were poor.
Design and deployment of relational geodatabase on mobile GIS platform for real-time COVID-19 contact tracing in Ghana
Authors: Afagbedzi Seth Kwaku , Owusu Alex Barimah , Kissiedu Isaac Newton , Amoako-Coleman Mary , Bandoh Delia Akosua , Noora Charles Lwanga , Aikins Ben Emunah , Hinneh Richmond Takyi , Calys-Tagoe Benedict , Malm Keziah Laurencia , Kenu Ernest
Published: May 2021

This study reviewed the design and deployment of relational geodatabase on mobile GIS application, using collector for ArcGIS and survey 123 for ArcGIS platforms for COVID-19 contact tracing in Ghana during the lockdown. The study assessed whether cases spread by physical neighborhood contacts, defined by a 2km buffer of initial known 60 cases location. The application was deployed on the android tablet, which was used by field workers. Application Post-deployment review shows that from 30th March to 4th April 2020, 828 samples were collected with 34 confirmed cases, of which 61% occurred outside the 2km buffer. From 1-30 April 2020, 8,748 individuals with 16,087 contacts were tested within the physical neighbourhoods, 2.4% turned positive. Similarly, 7,501 individuals with 17,071 contacts were tested outside the physical neighbourhoods with 4.3% positives.  Results suggest that more infections occurred outside the case’s physical neighbourhoods possibly due to; (1) existence of unknown cases prior to lockdown; (2) cases were moving outside their physical neighborhood and infecting others; (3) panic movements of cases within the 3 days window between announcement and enforcement of lockdown; (4) movement of cases into the country through unapproved routes.  New cases were identified outside the lockdown areas, which could not be explained. This study raises questions about (1) the understanding of the mode of spread of the virus (2) the implementation of the lockdown, including the geographic coverage and timing. It is recommended that future decisions on contact tracing and lockdown should be guided by an understanding of the disease geography.
Biodegradation of shea nut cake by indigenous soil bacteria
Authors: Danikuu FM , Sowley ENK
Published: May 2021

In response to the quest for an environmentally friendly mode of disposal of shea nut cake, One hundred and sixty two (162) soil samples were collected at random at 0-20 cm, 20-40 cm and 40-60 cm soil depth from shea nut cake dumping sites in Jusonayilli, Gurugu and Kasalgu within the Sanaregu District of the Northern Region of Ghana, from September, 2010 to July, 2011. This is to isolate bacteria with high shea nut cake degrading ability and consequently select the potential application of these bacteria in bioremediation. The bacteria were grown in mineral salt medium supplemented with 2% shea nut cake as sole source of carbon. More Gram negative bacteria were involved in shea nut cake degradation than Gram positive bacteria. Two isolates which gave good growth on 5% shea nut cake agar were identified biochemically as Pseudomonas species. Both grew optimally at 35oC and at pH 7.0. Yeast extracts enhanced growth. Pseudomanas strain G9 degraded 71.25% shea nut cake, while Pseudomonas strain G38 degraded 50.35% shea nut cake within 48 h. Pseudomonas G9 can be used to degrade shea nut cake. G9 and G38 are different species of Pseudomonas and molecular typing such as PCR can be used to determine the exact spe-cies.Keywords: Shea nut cake, selective isolation, biodegradation, bacteria
Safety of Family Replacement Donors vs. Voluntary Non-Remunerated Donors in Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Ghana: A Comparative Study
Authors: Addai-Mensah O , Bashiru PA , Dogbe EE
Published: May 2021

Blood safety remains a challenge to many countries in sub-Saharan Africa including Ghana due to poorly planned blood donation exercises in the various communities. Blood and its products usual-ly come from two main sources; voluntary non-remunerated donors (VNRD) and family replace-ment donors (FRD). In Ghana, and in many developing countries, FRDs seem to be the major source of blood supply whilst in developed countries VNRDs are the major source. This study de-termined and compared the prevalence of four transfusion transmissible infections (TTIs); HIV, hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and Treponema palladium (TP) among FRDs and VNRDs at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital to compare the safety of blood from these two groups. This cross-sectional study was undertaken at the transfusion medicine unit (TMU) of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital between March and May 2014. A total of 400 blood donors (200 FRDs and 200 VNRDs) were enrolled in this study after obtaining written informed consent. Blood samples from each of the donors were then tested for HIV, hepatitis B and C, and syphilis using rapid test kits. ABO and Rhesus blood groups were also determined for all the samples. Prev-alence of TTIs was higher among FRDs (23.5%) than in VNRDs (3.5%) with males (47) been more infected than females (7). Age group 21- 30 years was the most infected, followed by age groups 31- 40 years, 11- 20 years, 41- 50 years and 51- 60 years respectively. FRDs among the younger age group, 17- 30 years, were also more infected than their VNRD counterparts. Repeat blood donors among the VNRD group, were found to be safer than their first-time counterparts. Overall, TTIs were significantly higher in the FRD group than in the VNRD group. The prevalence rates of all the infections tested were higher in the FRD group compared to the VNRD group. FRDs were the higher risk population for TTIs in comparison to VNRDs. VNRDs should therefore be encouraged to donate blood regularly.Keywords: Transfusion Transmissible Infections, HBsAg, HCV, HIV, Treponema pallidum
Trends in sputum smear conversion among smear-positive pulmo-nary tuberculosis patients
Authors: Acquah SEK , Quaye L , Walana W , Vicar EK , Osei YN , Amedor C , Yahaya AI , Ziem JB
Published: May 2021

Sputum smear conversion during pulmonary tuberculosis treatment is an important indicator of patient response to therapy and as such determines the direction of TB patient care. This retro-spective review assessed the trends in sputum smear evaluation and conversion rates among follow up pulmonary tuberculosis patients presenting to the Tamale Teaching Hospital from January 2004 to December 2012. A total of 8,238 sputum smear cases comprising of 6,892 (83.7%) diagnoses and 1,346 (16.3%) follow-up cases were recorded. The 1,346 follow-up cases comprised of 57.8% (778/1346) males and 42.2% (568/1346) females. The percentage proportion of follow up cases that had their month of follow up, residential addresses, ages and smear results reported are 93.8% (1262/1346), 95.2% (1281/1346), 98.2% (1322/1346) and 97.8% (1309/1346) respectively. The cumula-tive median age was 43years (IQR: 30 to 55years) with the minimum and maximum ages being 14 and 80 years recorded in 2008 and 2012 respectively. Thirty eight percent (511/1,346) of follow-up cases were from the intensive phase (month 2) evaluation period. One hundred and eleven (111) of the follow up cases were smear positive representing a cumulative positivity rate of 8.5% (111/1309). This comprised of 75(67.6 %) males and 36(32.4%) females. Generally males were observed to be significantly more likely to delay smear conversion during treatment (OR = 1.560; p = 0.035, 95% CI=1.032- 2.359) compared to females. The ages of the positive cases ranged from 14 to 75 years with a median age of 45.5 years. The intensive phase (month 2) positivity rate was 8.1% (63/776) representing a conversion rate of 91.9%. Significant proportion (15.4%) of males were smear posi-tive and were more likely to remain positive after two months of therapy compared to their female counterparts (OR = 2, p = 0.02, CI = 0.098 – 1.299). Periodic surveillance of regional sputum smear late/non conversion among PTB patients on treatment would be useful in supporting Tb manage-ment in Ghana.Keywords: Mycobacterium tuberculosis, follow up, microscopy, acid fast bacilli, Ghana
Ultrasound estimation of amniotic fluid and perinatal outcome in normotensive and pre-eclamptics at term in a Nigerian tertiary hospital
Authors: Ogunlaja O.A. , Fawole A.A. , Adeniran A.S. , Adesina K.T. , Akande H.J. , Ogunlaja I.P. , Bojuwoye O.M. , Idowu A.
Published: May 2021

Pre-eclampsia is a subtype of hypertensive disorder in pregnancy which is described as a disorder of widespread vascular endothelial malfunction and vasospasm that manifest clinically after 20 weeks gestation and can present as late as 4-6 weeks postpartum. However, the focus in modern obstetric care is on reduction of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality through preventive strategies. The objective of this study was to determine the usefulness of ultrasound scan measurement of the amniotic fluid indices in determining perinatal outcome in normotensive and pre-eclamptic paturients at term. This was an observational study involving 120 consenting pre-eclamptics and 120 normotensive women. An analysis of the measures of perinatal outcome in this study revealed a statistical significant difference when meconium stained liquor, route of delivery, fetal outcome and birth weight in pre-eclamptic women were compared with those of normotensive women. Ultrasound estimation of amniotic fluid in pre-eclamptic and normotensive paturients has been found to be useful in the management of these patients with the aim of improving perinatal outcome. Hence, there may be a need to include this in the protocol of management; however, randomized control trials will be needed to further justify the finding of this recommendation.Journal of Medical and Biomedical Sciences (2015) 4(3), 1-8Keywords: Pregnancy induced hypertension, perinatal outcome, blood pressure, Nigeria
Obesity and hypertension among market men and women in the Tamale metropolis
Authors: Yakong V.N. , Dapare P.P.M. , Boateng B.A. , Shittu S.O. , Ziba F.A. , Sakyi-Djan I.N.O. , Tiah H.A. , Baidoo F.A.R.
Published: May 2021

Obesity and hypertension are emerging problems in the Tamale metropolis in the northern region of Ghana. This study investigated the prevalence of obesity and hypertension among market men and women in the Tamale Metropolis. This is from a viewpoint of the market place, being an occupational environment that predisposes individual to obesity, mainly due to sedentary living and enhanced access to all sorts of food. A total of 220 market men and women were contacted. 15 individuals refused to take part in the study and 5 returned incomplete questionnaires, leaving 200 complete and evaluable respondents comprising 100 men and 100 women. The study population was selected randomly from four major markets (Lamashegu market, Aboabo market, Tamale central market and Kukuo market) in the city. Obesity was measured using the various anthropometric parameters (BMI, WHR, WC and %BF) and blood pressure was measured. The prevalence of hypertension was 3% while the prevalence of obesity was 25.0%, 35.5%, 30.0% and 52.5% using BMI, WHR, WC and %BF respectively among the entire study population. Among the men, 27.0%, 8.0%, 8.0% and 37.0% were obese using BMI, WHR, WC and %BF respectively; whilst the women recorded 23.0%, 63.0%, 52.0% and 68.0% as the prevalence of obesity using BMI, WHR, WC and %BF respectively. Among the men, 5.0% were hypertensive while 1.0% of women had hypertension. Prevalence of obesity and blood pressure values increased with increase in age. The prevalence of obesity is a common phenomenon among the market men and women in the metropolis. Irrespective of the criteria used, obesity is more common among the market women. The prevalence of obesity from this study is age dependent; it also depends on educational level as well as marital status. The prevalence of hypertension on the other hand is low and it is common among the men as compared to the women and also increased with age. Education on hypertension and obesity should be prioritized among the market men and women as a greater proportion of our study pop-ulation who were obese were found to be illiterates.Journal of Medical and Biomedical Sciences (2015) 4(3), 9-17Keywords: Cardiovascular disease, sedentary lifestyle, occupation, adiposity
Stillbirths at the West Gonja hospital in northern Ghana
Authors: Der E.M. , Sutaa F. , Azongo T.B. , Kubio C.
Published: May 2021

In most parts of Ghana, stillbirths (SBs) do not count in routine mortality data collection and there-fore are not seen as a major public health problem. The aim of this study was to determine still-birth rate, trend, causes and factors associated with stillbirth at the West Gonja Hospital in northern Ghana and offer recommendations. This study reviewed antenatal cards of mothers and records in the labour and maternity wards for cases of SBs from January 2009 to December 2013 for foetal and maternal characteristics. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS software (version 18, Chicago). There were 3,641 births and 121 SBs during the study period with an average SBs rate of 33.2 per 1000 births. There was a gradual rise in the annual incidence of SBs from 2.9% in 2009 to 3.9% in 2012. Majority (55.4%) of the SBs were fresh. A total of 58 (47. 9%) of the SBs had no identifiable cause. The mean gestational age of SBs was 34.8 weeks (SD=4.2), and the mean weight was 2.4 Kg (SD=0.8). Majority (73.9%) of the mothers were housewives. We found strong positive associations between SBs and maternal occupation (p<0.00), but negatives associations with maturity of pregnancy (p= 0.01), mode of delivery (p<0.00), type of pregnancy (p=0.04) and the causes of stillbirths (p<0.00). This study found a high SBs rate of 33.2 per 1000 births, with a gradual rise in the incidence over the study period. Many of the SBs had no identifiable cause. Most of the mothers who had stillbirths were house wives and many of the cases had no identifiable causes. There is the need for improve SBs data collection and the need for further investigations on the causes of stillbirth in Ghana.Journal of Medical and Biomedical Sciences (2016) 5(1), 1-7Keywords: Mortality data, causes, incidence rate, parity, gestational week
Co-existence of syndrome X and hypertension among Ghanaians
Authors: Owiredu W.K.B.A. , Nkrumah C. , Bedu-Addo G. , Quaye L. , Alidu H.
Published: May 2021

Cardiovascular risk factors such as obesity, diabetes and dyslipidaemia have been commonly associated with hypertension. The clustering of such risk factors is termed the metabolic syndrome (i.e. Syndrome X). The syndrome has been associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease especially in the hypertensive. This study therefore sought to determine the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its individual components in adult hypertensives. A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Hypertension Clinic of the Department of Medicine, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), Kumasi between April 2009 and November 2010. A total of 300 participants comprising 200 hypertensives and 100 normotensives were enrolled. The prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) among the hypertensive patients was significantly higher than the normotensive control (56.5% vrs 9.0%, 54.5% vrs 5.0% and 65.5% vrs 15.0%, p<0.001) using NCEP ATP III, WHO and IDF criteria respectively. Irrespective of the criteria applied, all the components of MetS were significantly higher among the hypertensive patients as compared to the normotensive control. Females had a higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome compared to their male counterparts. Among the hypertensive patients, the highest combination of individual risk components were reduced HDL, raised fasting blood glucose and central obesity. In conclusion, the study has demonstrated a high prevalence of metabolic syndrome among the hypertensive population and recommends active screening and multi-targeted approach in the management of hypertension in the country.Journal of Medical and Biomedical Sciences (2016) 5(1), 8-16Keywords: Metabolic syndrome, hypertension, hyperglycaemia, central obesity, dyslipidaemia
Removal of tannin from Shea nut cake by Pseudomonas strain
Authors: Danikuu F.M. , Quainoo A. , Sowley E.N.K.
Published: May 2021

The use of microorganisms to remove the anti-nutritional factors in shea nut cake as the most cost effective and environmentally friendly approach to permit its use in agriculture for animal nutrition and soil fertility is long anticipated. Bacteria isolated from shea nut cake polluted soil in Sagnarigu District of Northern Region of Ghana showed that anti-nutritional factors in shea nut cake are bio-degradable. The bacteria were grown in mineral salt medium supplemented with 2% shea nut cake as sole source of carbon. The bacteria isolate was identified biochemically as Pseudomonas aerugenosa and reduced total tannin concentration in shea nut cake from 54.58 g Kg-1 to 8.71 g Kg-1 (84%) in 10 days and 92% in 20 days. Boiling of shea nut cake reduced tannin content from 54.58 g Kg-1 to 16.36 g Kg-1 (70%) and enhanced biodegradation of tannin in the shea nut cake, removing up to 95% of total tannins in shea nut cake in 20 days.Journal of Medical and Biomedical Sciences (2016) 5(1), 17-22Keywords: Tannins, biodegradability, bacteria, mineral salt medium
Haemato-biochemical basis of anaemia in Agogo, Ashanti Region, Ghana
Authors: Owiredu W.K.B.A. , Kotey A. , Laing E.F. , Frempong M.T. , Abledu J.K. , Amidu N. , Quaye L. , Opoku-Okrah C.
Published: May 2021

This cross sectional study was conducted to evaluate the underlying causes of anaemia among 200 adult patients (18-60 years) without any established chronic disease from September 2011 to February 2012 at the outpatients department of the Agogo Presbyterian Hospital. Participant selection was based on the WHO definition of anaemia in adults [Hb<12.0g/dl (female) and Hb<13.0g/dl (male)]. Venous blood samples were drawn for full blood count (FBC), total iron, ferritin, folate, vitamin B12 and malaria parasite tests. One hundred and forty-eight (74%) of the study participants presented with mild anaemia, 40(20%) had moderate anaemia and 12(6%) had severe anaemia. Study participants with mild anaemia presented with higher mean red blood cell count (4.14±0.51 M/μL) when compared to those with moderate (3.71±0.67 M/μL) and severe (2.30±0.73 M/μL) anaemia. About one quarter (51/200) of the study participants had folate deficiency (serum folate <5.0 ng/ml) and 60/200 had vitamin B12  deficiency (serum vitamin B12<200ng/L). Iron deficiency (serum iron <8.9 µmol/L), the most prevalent cause of anaemia, occurred in 69/200 of the study participants and had a statistically significant association with the severity of the anaemia (p=0.0028). Malaria infection increased the risk of mild to moderate anaemia (OR=5.2; 95%CI=2.0-13.5) five times and mild to severe anaemia (OR=6.9; 95%CI=1.8-26.9) seven times. Deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12  and folic acid are significantly associated with the burden of anaemia in Agogo, Ashanti. It is imperative that the cause of anaemia be fully investigated to enable medical interventions to be fashioned around the underlying aetiology thus optimizing the use of limited health resources associated with the burden of anaemia in Agogo-Ashanti.Journal of Medical and Biomedical Sciences (2016) 5(3), 1-12Keywords: Anaemia, Microcytosis, Hypochromasia, Immunoassay, Agogo, Ghana, Malaria
Evaluation of HIV therapeutic agents on immunological, lipid and lipoprotein indices in Ghanaian HIV-1 infected patients
Authors: Quaye L. , Owiredu W.K.B.A. , Amidu N. , Adams Y. , Huseini A.W.
Published: May 2021

HIV-1 infected patients initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Ghana are placed on one of the two most commonly used non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs), nevirapine (NVP) and efavirenz (EFV), in combination with a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor backbone of either combivir (CBV) or stavudine (d4T)/lamivudine (3TC). This study sought to evaluate the effect of these therapeutic agents on weight, immunological, lipid and lipoprotein changes as well as the atherogenic indices of Ghanaian HIV-1 infected patients. This observational study was carried out at the ART clinic of the Regional Hospital, Bolgatanga in the Upper-East region of Ghana from September 2008 to September 2009 comprising 61 HIV-1 infected patients who were initiated on NVP or EFV in combination with either CBV or d4T/3TC. Out of the 61 enrolled patients, 27(44.3%) were on NVP and 34(55.7%) were on EFV. Within the NVP group, 16 (59.3%) were on CBV and 11(40.7%) on d4T/3TC whilst the EFV group had 26(76.5%) on CBV and 8 (23.5%) on d4T/3TC. Percentage changes in lipid profile components comprising total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) was assessed over the 12-month period. Percentage changes in atherogenic index expressed as TC/HDL-c and LDL-c/HDL-c was also estimated. NVP elicited a 10.2% increase in weight compared to EFV and this was associated with CBV combination use. EFV further elicited a 9.1% increase in TC, 1.2% increase in TG, 39.3% increase in LDL-c and a 4.1% increase in HDL-c which resulted in concomitant percentage increases in TC/HDL-c (22%) and LDL-c/HDL-c (47.3%). CBV as a NRTI component of EFV elicited a 4.3% increase in TC/HDL-c and a 16.6% increase in LDL-c/HDL-c compared to d4T/3TC whilst conversely, d4T/3TC elicited a 3.6% increase in TC/HDL-c and a 34.0% when used in combination with NVP. NVP combination therapy elicited improvement in weight compared to EFV combination therapy for the different categories of patients. The less atherogenic lipid profile observed in patients taking NVP in comparison to those taking EFV and the reduction in CHD risk associated with NVP + CBV combination therapy observed in this study should be factored into considerations taken when selecting the most appropriate ART regimen for treatment naïve HIV-1 infected patients.Journal of Medical and Biomedical Sciences (2016) 5(3), 13-27Keywords: HIV-1, Antiretroviral therapy, Immunological, Lipids, Atherogenic indices, Bolgatanga, Ghana
The Ophthalmic status manifestations of nutritional and lifestyle disorders of men in a peri urban community in Ghana
Authors: Vuvor F. , Steiner-Asiedu M. , Saalia F.K.
Published: May 2021

Unhealthy conditions of eye/sight in poor communities in South-Saharan African countries are many and becoming a global concern. The aim of the study is to determine the lifestyle variables and their associations with unhealthy ophthalmic conditions of men in a peri-urban community in Ghana. The study was a cross-sectional; involving men aged ≥18 years of age. Data were gathered using WHO Stepwise questionnaires. Analyses included frequencies, Chi-squares, correlations and regressions. The participants were made up of 1449 men. The dietary intakes of vitamin A rich food were so low that they could not be represented quantitatively. About 71.0% of the men were habitual users of alcoholic beverages and 22.0% smoked tobacco. About 21.7% of men had Bitot’s spot while 4.3% had keratomalacia. The logistic regression analysis predicted that alcohol users were about twice more likely to suffer Bitot’s spot (p=0.20) while tobacco smokers were about 3 times and 13 times more likely to suffer from Bitot’s spot (p<0.01) and Keratomalacia (p<0.01) respectively, compared with nonsmokers in the study group. The prevalence of ophthalmic was considerable high. The lifestyle behaviours such as smoking were strongly correlated with Bitot’s spots and keratomalacia among the participating men.Journal of Medical and Biomedical Sciences (2017) 6(1), 1-7Keywords: Bitot’s spot, keratomalacia, Vitamin-A, Xerophthalmia
Effect of counseling on contraceptive uptake in Nigeria
Authors: Balogun O.R. , Adewole A. , Adeniran A.S. , Adegboye R.
Published: May 2021

Despite multiple options for contraception, choices are limited with low satisfaction among clients in low resource countries. Effective counseling may improve satisfaction and compliance if adequately pursued. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of counseling on contraceptive choices and its associated factors. This was a prospective, descriptive study involving consenting family planning clients at the family planning clinic of a tertiary hospital in Ilorin, Nigeria. All participants completed an interviewer administered questionnaire designed for the study. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 21.0 (IBM, USA) and p value <0.05 was significant. Among the 260 participants, the mean age was 30.3±5.7 years, mean parity 3.0±1.0 and modal age 20–39years (93.5%). The commonest preferred contraceptive pre- and post-counseling was intrauterine device (36.5% vs. 53.5%); increased post-counseling desire was reported for injectables (28.8% vs. 35.4%) and implant (0% vs. 3.1%). Preferences increased post-counseling for highly effective methods (38.1% vs. 60.4%; p<0.0001), long term methods (38.1% vs. 60.4%; p<0.0001) and permanent methods (1.5% vs. 3.8%; p<0.001). Significant predictor of contraceptive choice precounseling was level of education (p=0.032) and parity (p<0.001) post-counseling. The study shows that counseling can improve choices, encourage satisfaction and possibly enhance compliance among contraceptive clients.Journal of Medical and Biomedical Sciences (2017) 6(3), 1 - 6
Lifestyles characteristics and prevalence of anaemia among men living in deprived community, Ghana
Authors: Vuvor F. , Steiner-Asiedu M. , Saalia F. K.
Published: May 2021

Anaemia is a reduction in circulating red blood cells which directly affect the concentrations of haemoglobin. The most common form dietary anaemia is known to be iron deficiency. Many factors such as socioeconomic status, and lifestyles contribute to anaemia. Studies are done on children and women but scanty information aree available on men. It was relevant to find out such information on men. This problem persists in the world especially, in the underdeveloped countries. A cross-sectional study in a peri urban community in Ghana enrolled 1449 healthy men aged ≥18 years. The study assessed their lifestyle, nutrient adequacy ratio (NAR), body mass index (BMI), haemoglobin (Hb) level. risks of developing anaemia and binary logistic regression analysis with significance set at p<0.05. Biochemical and clinical examinations revealed that 18.8% of the participants were anaemic (Hb ≤13b/dL). Their dietary status was below the cutoff of 60% NAR for all nutrients except iron (84%) and protein (55%). The binary logistic regression indicated that participants who used tobacco were about 16 (Odds ratio: 16.39, p<0.01) times more likely to be anaemic compared with nonusers. In the same model men whose intake of protein was (<60% NAR) were 3 (Odds ratio: 3.44, p<0.01) time more likely to be anaemic. In conclusion, tobacco smoking and mainly plant-base sources of protein and iron did not guarantee their availability for optimum utilization for Hb synthesis to lower incidence of high risk of among participating men in the study in Ghana.Journal of Medical and Biomedical Sciences (2017) 6(3), 7 - 14
Total abdominal hysterectomy in a Tertiary Hospital in Kumasi: Indication, Histopathological Findings and Clinicopathological Correlation
Authors: Titiloye N. A. , Duduyemi B. M. , Asiamah E. A. , Okai I. , Ossei P. P. S. , Konney T. O. , Fefemwole P. K.
Published: May 2021

Hysterectomy is the commonest gynaecological surgery worldwide. Hysterectomy is commonly performed in our centre with request for post-surgical histological confirmation of pathologies. The aim of this study was to review all the hysterectomy specimens sent to our department between 2008 and 2016 and analyse the histological diagnosis in them and clinically correlate with the indications for the surgery. We reviewed retrospectively request forms, histological reports and slides generated for all cases of hysterectomies sent to our department for histological assessment between 2008 and 2016 totalling 1086. All the data obtained were analysed using SPSS 21. A total number of 1086 cases of hysterectomies with or without salpingooophorectomy were received in our department. The age range was 15 to 85 years with age group 40 to 49 years constituting 57.7% of cases. The commonest indication for surgery was uterine mass which constituted 722 cases (66.42%) and an obvious uterine mass was found at grossing in 737 cases (66.48%) while histology revealed uterine leiomyoma in 861 cases (79.28%) constituting the largest proportion of histological diagnosis. Other indications for surgery include dysfunctional uterine bleeding, suspected ovarian and cervical malignancy and peri-partum haemorrhage. Histological diagnoses confirmed wide range of lesions within the endometrium, cervix, fallopian tubes and ovaries. There was correlation between clinical indication and histological diagnosis up to 90.2% of all cases. Our data confirmed hysterectomy specimens with or without salpingo-oophorectomy as a common histological specimen in our laboratory, with peak age of patients in the fifth decade. Leiomyoma was the commonest histological finding and other wide ranges of pathologies were seen with strong positive (r = 0.98) correlation between pre-operative indication and the final diagnosis.Journal of Medical and Biomedical Sciences (2018) 7(1), 22 - 28
Prevalence, patterns and predictors of self-medication with anti-malarial drugs among Cameroonian mothers during a recent illness episode
Authors: Kojom L. P. F. , Ntoumba A. A. , Nyabeyeu Nyabeyeu H. , Bunda Wepnje G. , Tonga C. , Lehman L. G.
Published: May 2021

Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) are recommended as treatment of choice for malaria. Although the resistance to artemisinin and its derivatives has not yet been officially reported in Africa, there is growing concern that it may reach the continent. Self-medication is common among African populations and may explained drug resistance. Unfortunately, a few studies have addressed this issue in Cameroon. This study seeks to appraise the prevalence, patterns and predictors of antimalarial self-medication. A household-based cross-sectional study was conducted in 2016 in the town of Douala. Interviews and pretested semi-structured questionnaires were administered for collecting information from 213 mothers of under-fives. The prevalence of self-medication was 49.30%. The main reasons were “habit” (38.75%), “Lack of money” (22.48%) and “Lightness of symptoms” (13.18 %). Pharmacy (47.80%) and street medicine stores (30.19%) were the commonest drug providers. Nearly 20% of women had not respected posology although treatment was right and taken promptly. Age, level of education and curiosity on treatment were risk factors of self-medication. Our study confirms that malaria self-medication is common among women and the influence of some factors. Hence, strategies for information, education and communication should be scaled up to efficiently address self-medication in the area.Journal of Medical and Biomedical Sciences (2018) 7(1), 29 - 39
Caregivers’ knowledge of pneumonia and uptake of vaccination in under-five children in Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: Yahaya A. K. , Ekpenyong B. N. , Obegu P.
Published: May 2021

Pneumonia, though very much a preventable disease, still remains a tangible threat to the lives of under-5 children. Caregivers’ knowledge of pneumonia is important in effective management. The study determinedthe reported proportion of childhood pneumonia in Kaduna State and assessed caregivers’ knowledge of pneumonia and uptake of pneumococcal vaccine among under-5 children. The mixed method research approach used 500 caregivers of under-five children in urban and rural communities in Kaduna state. Ethical approval and informed consent of participants was obtained before data collection using a pre-tested semistructured questionnaire and a focus group discussion guide. Chi-square statistical test was used to test for association between variables, while data from the focus group discussion was analyzed using thematic coding process. Most respondents were aware of pneumonia, they had local names for it but majority 340 (68%) had poor knowledge of pneumonia. The overall occurrence of pneumonia as reported by respondents among under-five children was 33 (6.6%). The rate of child pneumococcal vaccine uptake as reported by respondents was 105 (21%), the uptake was significantly more among the urban dwellers (p<0.01). The knowledge of pneumonia and uptake of pneumococcal vaccination was poor. Routine and constant health education of the community members on pneumonia is very necessary to preserve lives of under-5 children in our communities.Journal of Medical and Biomedical Sciences (2018) 7(1), 40 - 48
Agitations for Regime Change and Political Restructuring: Implications on National Integration and Development in Nigeria
Authors: Shedrack Igboke C.
Published: May 2021

The formation of organizations at global, regional and sub-regional levels among nation-states, especially after the World War II in 1945 was to nip n the bud situation that could escalate into war and promote global peace. It was also to promote political, economic and socio-cultural unity and welfare among member states. It was on this premise that the United Nations (UN), organizations of Africa Union (OAU) now AU, Arab League, European Union (EU), etc were formed to promote unity among nation states. The main thrust of this paper was to analyze the implications of agitation by various ethnic groups on national integration and development in Africa. The paper also x-rays the nexus between leadership failure and development in Nigeria. The study was anchore0d on the structural functionalism theory to address agitations and conflict among ethnic groups in Nigeria. This theory recognizes the need for restructuring the political system that will enable each component unit to function effectively for sustainable development. The study relied on much of the data scooped from secondary sources such as textbooks, internet materials, magazines, newspaper, journals etc. The study found out that agitations and conflict among ethnic groups was threat to national integration and development, citing the case of Indigenous people of Biafra popularly known as IPOB, Niger Delta militant, etc. The paper concluded that national integration was the bedrock to peace and national development in Nigeria. It was also recommended that government should desist from the actions and inactions that are threat to national integration and peace. The study recommended that Nigerian government should seriously focus on empowerment and investment in youth, through education, skill acquisition and also implementing policy that will eliminate all forms of agitations. The paper equally recommended adoption of regional government and true Federalism to address the problems of national development.

Keywords: Agitations, regime change, political restructuring, integration, and development
Restructuring as a Clue to Unleashing Nigeria’s Potentials and Prosperity
Authors: Nwokolo Aaron Onyemaechi
Published: May 2021

The continuous misgivings about Nigeria’s developmental trajectory predate Nigeria’s independence. The clues that can unravel and demystify the mystery surrounding the continuous retardation of socio-political and economic well-being of Nigeria have over the years become a tall order. Using the qualitative method, this paper succulently highlighted restructuring as a veritable panacea for promoting peaceful co-existence amongst ethnic nationalities, and also encourages healthy competition among federating units or states. This paper further discussed restructuring as it relates to resource control by sub-national government. It recommended power devolution and deloading of the exclusive list of 1999 constitution as amended and galvanizing the states and local government towards assuming more governmental responsibilities.

Keywords: Federalism, Political Restructuring, Clue, Devolution, Autonomy.
Restructuring for Sustainable Democracy in Nigeria: The Role of Political Education and Information Communication Technology
Authors: Ogbe Henry Ejotubu , Ojie Deborah Voke
Published: May 2021

The study examined the role of political education and Information Communication Technology (ICT) for sustainable democracy in Nigeria. The paper conceptualized political education and IC T for sustainable democracy. The paper adopted observation and secondary methods of data gathering. The paper argued that electoral violence and fraud that marred conducted elections in Nigeria was  due to decades of military rule that militarized the psyche of most Nigerians, and lack of continuous political education to redirect the militarized mentality they do display in electoral process, to democratized mentality to sustain democracy in Nigeria. This is because the anti-democratic mentality of most Nigerians has created loopholes for politicians to manipulate the electoral process which portents a threat to democracy in Nigeria. The paper revealed that continuous political education through the use of ICT tools like social network sites will create political awareness that will enlighten Nigerians to deter them from electoral violence and fraud, and other related anti-democratic behaviour to bring about sustainable democracy in Nigeria. Therefore, the paper recommends among others, that the Nigerian government should liaise with advanced countries that have successfully built ICT in their democratic governance, to see areas where they can collaborate to ensure stable use of ICT facilities in Nigeria.

Keywords: Restructuring, Sustainable Democracy, Political Education, Information Communication Technology (ICT)
Vocational Home Economics Education: A Veritable Tool for Self Reliance, Poverty Eradication and Sustainable National Development
Authors: Oladokun Augustina
Published: May 2021

The increasing rate of poverty, unemployment and retrenchment and so many other social problems is worrisome. However, unemployment is not peculiar to Nigeria alone but to other third world countries. This paper examined the objectives of Home Economics education as it is geared towards improving the standard of living. It looked at self-reliance, poverty Eradication through Home Economics Education, and the role of entrepreneurship in economic development. It also examined Home Economics income generating business ventures in the major areas of Home Economics for employment and wealth creation for sustainability. The paper concluded and recommended, among others things, that entrepreneurship education be made compulsory at all levels of education and soft loans be made available to graduate for business set up.

Keywords: Self-Reliance, Poverty Eradication, Entrepreneurship, National Development
Textual Analysis of College Anthem and Its Implication for Sustainable Development in Nigeria
Authors: Okafor Justina Enoh
Published: May 2021

The paper is based on the content analysis of the College Anthem. The College anthem is a composition written by Elsie E. Nwoko reflecting core value of the College of Education, Agbor. The text of the college anthem is very significant in that the text is an intricate musicality woven into the fabric of the existence of the College of Education and the tenet of institution. Without the existence of the College of Education Agbor, there would be no composition known as the College Anthem. The paper followed the descriptive and empirical approach in realizing set objective by juxtaposing the College Anthem vis-a-vis the College of Education, Agbor in relation to sustainable development. The paper concludes that since music can be used as an advertising agent, and the College exists for capacity/capital development of Nigeria citizens, the Music Department as a unit of the College of Education, Agbor should be assisted and encouraged in all ramification to run the music programme effectively in order to contribute to the sustainable development of Nigeria via each empowered graduates from the music programme.

Keywords: Sustainable development, College, Anthem, Textual, analysis
Religious Leaders as Agents of Peace and Security for Sustainable Development in Nigeria
Authors: Osajie Justina Nwazuni
Published: May 2021

The paper explores the possibility of drawing on religious values and ethos through our religious leaders in solving societal problems militating against peace and security for sustainable development in the country. The paper looks at the security and peace which religion proffers by inculcation of moral. Religion regulates the conduct and behaviour of people in the society and preaches good virtues needed in the society. The researcher undertakes historical and critical interpretation of the phenomenon which have militated against meaningful peace and security of the nation. It discovers among other things that bribery and corruption, poor leadership, moral decadence, insecurity, religious crisis or insurgence among others contribute to the low pace of security and peace in the nation. It concludes by recommending that all religious leaders/groups should draw on the theosophical perspectives of religion in the country to ensure adequate peace and security for peaceful co-existence in order for the nation to actualize her dreams of sustainable development.

Keywords: Religion, Peace, Security, Leaders, Sustainable Development
Youth Restiveness in Nigeria: Implications on Sustainable National Development
Authors: Akpokighe Raymond , Ejovi Austine
Published: May 2021

Youth restiveness has become a topical issue for discussion in the social, economic and polity domain in Nigeria. It is a fact that Nigeria cannot thrive and progress significantly with youths who are restive. Nigeria’s peace, security and corporate existence as a nation is threatened because of the prevalence of this phenomenon. The causes of youth restiveness are connected to unemployment, lack of basic and inadequate infrastructural facilities and inadequate social amenities amongst others. The spiralling effect of youth restiveness are evident in Nigeria as ethnic militia, kidnapping, cultism, armed robbery, agitations and involvement in social insecurity. The causes and effects of youth restiveness have promoted uncertainties which have led to failure, fear and underdevelopment of most sectors in the Nigeria. The conflict theory explains that threatening events such as wars, revolution, domestic violence and others are as a result of competition and limited resources. Unfortunately, Nigeria’s government has not done enough by providing basic facilities, employment opportunities and effective empowerment programmes for the youths to be gainfully employed. This study holds unto the premise that in order to control youths in Nigeria, their skills, talents and education must be recognized, encouraged and channelled to the right sector in the society for growth, sustainable development and national peace. This paper reviewed the arguments surrounding youth restiveness in Nigeria alongside some recommendations on how the government could effectively be organized and responsible to counter the growing rate of youth restiveness in Nigeria.

Keywords: Causes, Effects, Control Youth, Peace
Growth Impact of Insecurity on the Nigerian Economy
Authors: Aghaulor Kosy Cletus
Published: May 2021

This research work investigated restructuring national security for economic growth in Nigeria for the period 1981 to 2017. In a bid to actualize the main objective of this study, a good number of literature materials were reviewed and data were collected from secondary sources such as the various editions of CBN Statistical Bulletin. The data were analyzed using Augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF) Unit Root test, Johansen co-integration test, Error Correction Model. The selected variables (i.e. Gross Domestic product, Life expectancy at birth, terrorism risk index, discomfort index, adult literacy rate,  corruption perception index and unemployment rate) had a cointegrating relationship indicating long-run relationship among the variables. The result of the Error Correction Mechanism (ECM) had the expected negative sign and statistically significant at the 0.05 level, an indication that any disequilibrium in the system will be adjusted. Based on the conclusion made, it is recommended that government should restructure and decentralize security architecture, increase capital expenditure on security and provide the enabling environment for people to work especially in the area of security of lives and property. This is against the back-drop that no meaningful economic activity can thrive in the face of insecurity
TURİZM EĞİTİMİ ALAN ÖĞRENCİLERİN DİNDARLIK DÜZEYİ İLE HELAL KONSEPTLİ OTELLERE BAKIŞ AÇISI ARASINDAKİ İLİŞKİNİN BELİRLENMESİ
Authors: KARAKAŞ Ayhan , GÜNGÖR H. Yusuf
Published: May 2021

Bu çalışmanın amacı, turizm eğitim alan öğrencilerin helal konseptli otellere bakış açısını belirlemek ve bu bakış açısının dindarlık algısı ve davranışlarına göre değişip değişmediğini ortaya koymaktır. Bu çalışma nicel bir araştırma olup, veri toplama tekniği olarak anket yöntemi kullanılmıştır. Anket formu, demografik özellikler, helal konseptli otellere bakış açısı ve dindarlık düzeyi, davranışı olmak üzere üç bölümden oluşmaktadır. Anketler yüz yüze iletişim kurularak elde edilmiştir. Adıyaman Üniversitesi ve Bartın Üniversitesi’nde turizm eğitimi almakta olan lisans ve önlisans düzeyinde 269 öğrenci üzerinde çalışma yürütülmüştür. Araştırma sonucunda dindarlık düzeyi arttıkça, helal konseptli otellere yönelik bakış açısı arasında istatistiki olarak anlamlı pozitif yönlü bir ilişki bulunmuştur. Araştırma sonucunda eğitimcilere ve sektör yöneticilerine öneriler sunulmuştur.