bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feline aortic thromboembolism: Presentation, diagnosis, and treatment outcomes of 15 cats
Authors: Hassan Marwa H. , Abu-Seida Ashraf M. , Torad Faisal A. T , Hassan Elham A.
Published: November 2020

Background: Feline aortic thromboembolism (FATE) is a fatal disease where a blood clot gets lodged into the aortic trifurcation.Aim: This study describes the diagnosis and treatment outcome of FATE in 15 clinical cases.Methods: Fifteen cats with a sudden onset of hind limb paresis/paralysis, vocalization, and pain were admitted to the surgery clinic. A full case history was obtained and clinical, orthopedic, neurologic, radiographic, electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic examinations were performed for each cat. The treatment protocol included daily administration of multiple anticoagulant drugs with different mode of actions and meloxicam for 7 successive days. Prophylactic anticoagulant therapy (clopidogrel and acetylsalicylic acid) was continued for 6 months. All data were statisticallyanalyzed and the correlation between time of admission and treatment outcome was tested using Pearson’s correlation coefficient.Results: The case history and clinical, orthopedic, and neurologic examinations revealed a sudden onset of hind limbparalysis (n = 12) or paresis (n = 3) associated with vocalization and pain, absence of trauma, cold and pale paws of hind limbs (n = 13, 86.7%) or cyanosed hind paws (n = 2, 13.3%), absence of femoral pulsation, shallow and rapid open-mouth respiration (61 ± 8 breaths/minutes), hypothermia (37.9°C ± 0.6°C) and tachycardia (155 ± 12 beats/ minutes), with a muffled heart sound in four cats (26.7%). Radiography revealed no abnormalities in the hind limbs, pelvis, and spines, cardiomegaly in five cats (33.3%), mild pleural effusion and vascular pattern of the lung in six cats (40%), and Valentine’s heart shape in four cats (26.7%). Electrocardiography (ECG) revealed an R-wave< 0.9 mV, prolongation of QRS interval in five cats (33.3%), and conduction disturbance in four cats (26.7%). Echocardiography was consistent with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in five cats (33.3%). A statistically significant (p = 0.023) strong negative correlation (r = −0.6) was reported between time of admission and subsequent early treatment and recovery from clinical signs. The treatment was successful in nine cats (60%), while four cats (26.7) were euthanized and two cats (13.3%) were subjected to hind limb amputation, at the owners’ requests.Conclusion: Clinical signs, radiography, ECG, and echocardiography are valuable for diagnosis of FATE. The outcome of the multiple anticoagulants therapy depends mainly upon early diagnosis and treatment within the first 6 hours from the onset of clinical signs.

Keywords: Anticoagulant, Aortic thromboembolism, Cardiomyopathy, Echocardiography, Paralysis.
Application of gene therapy in the treatment of superficial digital flexor tendon injury in horses
Authors: Aimaletdinov Alexandr , Mindubaeva Gulnur , Khalikova Svetlana , Kabwe Emmanuel , Salmakova Alexandra , Alexandrova Natalia , Rutland Catrin , Rizvanov Albert , Zakirova Elena
Published: November 2020

Background: Tendon injuries are one of the most common causes of orthopedic disorders in horses. Such injuries involve a long course of  treatment and recovery. The most promising method of treating these injuries is the use of recombinant proteins and gene therapy.

Aim: In this work, we evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of plasmid DNA (pDNA) containing two species-specific coding sequences, i.e. vascular endothelial growth factor 164 (VEGF164) and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), in the treatment of severe damage to the tendon of the superficial digital flexor.

Methods: A pDNA construct was used to restore the damaged superficial digital flexor tendon in the horse.

Results: This study showed that the administration of pDNA encoding VEGF164 and FGF2 genes at the injury area increased the regenerative activities of the damaged tendon.

Conclusion: This study shows the therapeutic properties of genetic constructs (pDNA) and contributes to theadvancements in the use of these therapies.

Keywords: Fibroblast growth factor 2, Plasmid DNA, Superficial digital flexor, Vascular endothelial growth factor.
Combination of bleomycin and cisplatin as adjuvant electrochemotherapy protocol for the treatment of incompletely excised feline injection-site sarcomas: A retrospective study
Authors: Spugnini Enrico P. , Vincenzi Bruno , Carocci Francesca , Bonichi Chiara , Menicagli Francesco , Baldi Alfonso
Published: November 2020

Background: Feline injection-site sarcomas (FISSs) are mesenchymal tumors that can occur in cats after injections of different medical agents and  are easily prone to recurrence.Aim: The aims of this study were to report treatment outcomes for cats with feline injection-site sarcomas (FISSs) treated with both bleomycin and cisplatin, per adjuvant electrochemotherapy (ECT) protocol.Methods: The medical records of cats with a diagnosis of FISS that were treated with ECT using both bleomycin and cisplatin were retrospectively evaluated. A total of 27 cats were available for statistical evaluation of their response. The cats received intravenous 20 mg/m2 bleomycin, and the tumor bed and margins were infiltrated with cisplatin at the dose of 0.5 mg/cm2. Then, the trains of permeabilizing biphasic electric pulses lasting 50 + 50 μseconds each were delivered in bursts of 1,300 V/cm using caliper electrodes under sedation. A second session was performed 2 weekslater.Results: Side effects were limited to local inflammation in three cats. Three cats developed local tumor recurrence at days 180, 180, and 545 after surgery, two cats developed recurrence and metastases at 100 and 505 days after surgery, and two cats experienced distant metastases. A median time to recurrence could not be calculated as over 80% of the study population remained disease free or were censored due to death from other causes. Mean survival time was 985 days, and median cumulative survival for all cases was 1,000 days.Conclusion: When compared to historical controls, the results of this study demonstrate the superior rates of tumorfree survival and disease-free interval. This adjuvant therapy could be a useful addition to the current options for FISS in consideration of its efficacy, limited toxicity, and ease of administration.

Keywords: Bleomycin, Cat, Cisplatin, Electrochemotherapy, Sarcoma.
Splenic T-cell lymphoma in a North American River Otter (Lontra canadensis)
Authors: Matt Crystal L. , Mans Christoph , Doss Grayson , Pinkerton Marie , Elsmo Betsy
Published: November 2020

Background: Splenic lymphoma is commonly reported in domestic ferrets (Mustela putorious furo), but very rarely reported in wild Mustelidae species, including otters. One report described B-cell splenic lymphoma in an Asian smallclawed otter (Aonyx cinerea) that metastasized and was the primary reasoning for humane euthanasia (Stedman and Mills, 2014).Case Description: The current report describes a case of splenic T-cell lymphoma in a captive North American river otter (Lontra canadensis). The otter died several weeks after splenectomy and no evidence of metastasis was found on gross necropsy or histopathological evaluation.Conclusion: The splenectomy performed on this individual was presumptively curative for its splenic lymphoma. Extensive myocardial fibrosis was found, and suspected to have caused severe cardiac arrhythmia leading to acute death.

Keywords: Fibrosis, Mustelid, Neoplasia, Splenectomy
Evaluation of pigment epithelium-derived factor concentration in equine amniotic membrane homogenate and its in-vitro vascular endothelial growth factor inhibition effect in tears of dogs with vascularized ulcerative keratitis
Authors: Villar Tatiane , Pascoli Ana L. , Chaulagain Sabal , Fadl-Alla Bahaa A. , Martins Bianca C.
Published: November 2020

Background: Corneal neovascularization can result from many pathological processes affecting the ocular surface leading to disturbances and  opacifications that reduce corneal clarity and may impact vision. In veterinary medicine, the use of topical corticosteroid is contraindicated in the presence of ulcerative keratitis, and there is sparse research regarding safe medical alternatives to inhibit corneal neovascularization in dogs to improve visual outcome.Aim: To investigate the pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) concentration in equine amniotic membrane homogenate (EAMH) and its in-vitro vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibition in tears of dogs with vascularized ulcerative keratitis.Methods: Homogenates from 10 equine amniotic membranes (AM) were analyzed by sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for quantification of equine PEDF and VEGF. Forty tear samples were collected from both eyes of dogs diagnosed with vascularized ulcerative keratitis, and 50 samples from healthy dogs. Samples from affected eyes were allocated to G1 – affected undiluted tears; G2 – affected tears diluted with phosphate-buffer solution; G3 – affected tears treated with low-concentrated EAMH; and G4 – affected tears treated with high-concentrated EAMH. Tears from the unaffected contralateral eyes were composed in G5, while G6 was composed by tears from healthy dogs (control). The presence and levels of VEGF were evaluated in all groups by Western blot and ELISA.Results: The PEDF:VEGF ratio in EAMH was 110:1. An increase in VEGF levels was observed in tears from eyes with vascularized corneal ulcers (G1) as well as in contralateral tears (G5), compared to normal dogs (G6). Highconcentrated EAMH provided a greater decrease in VEGF levels in-vitro compared to low-concentrated EAMH.Conclusion: EAMHs exhibited high concentrations of PEDF in comparison to VEGF and were able to partially decrease VEGF levels in tears of dogs with vascularized ulcers, in-vitro. Our results suggest that VEGF concentration is elevated in tears of dogs with active vascularized ulcerative keratitis in both affected and contralateral eyes compared to that of healthy dogs.

Keywords: Amniotic membrane, Corneal neovascularization, Dog, PEDF, VEGF.
Isolation of enterotoxigenic Staphylococcus aureus harboring seb gene and enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (serogroups O18, O114, and O125) from soft and hard artisanal cheeses in Egypt
Authors: Hegab Ola Wagih , Abdel-Latif Eman F. , Moawad Ashraf Ahmed
Published: November 2020

Background: Soft and hard artisanal cheeses are regularly consumed in Egypt. These products are usually processed from raw milk which may  harbor many pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms.Aim: To evaluate the safety of some artisanal cheeses in Egypt, such as Ras, Domiati, and Mish, through chemical and microbiological examination.Methods: One hundred and fifty random samples of traditional Ras, Domiati, and Mish cheeses (50 each) were microbiologically and chemically analyzed. Counts of total bacteria, presumptive coliform, staphylococci, yeast, and mold were estimated. Furthermore, isolation of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus was performed, followed by PCR confirmation; isolates of E. coli were examined for the presence of virulence genes; on the other hand, the detection of the five classical enterotoxin genes of S. aureus was performed using multiplex PCR. Regarding chemical analysis, moisture, salt, and acidity content were measured. Correlations between chemical and microbial findings were investigated.Results: Mean counts of total bacteria, presumptive coliform, staphylococci, yeast, and mold were (2 × 108, 3 × 106 and 1 × 107 ), (3 × 105, 5 × 10 and 5 × 102), (1 × 106, 4 × 105 and 1 × 105), (3 × 105, 1 × 105 and 5 × 105), and (7 × 103, 4 × 103 and 3 × 104) for Ras, Domiati and Mish cheeses,  respectively. Serological identification of suspected E. coli revealed that E. coli O125 was isolated from Ras and Domiati samples, E. coli O18 was recovered from Ras samples, while E. coli O114 was isolated from Mish samples. PCR results revealed that all detected isolates of E. coli were positive for both iss (increased serum survival) and fimH (type 1 fimbriae) genes. Concerning isolated S. aureus, all examined products were harboring S. aureus enterotoxigenic strains, with seb and sed genes being the most common. The mean values of moisture, salt, and acidity were (30.03, 56.44, and 58.70), (3.30, 6.63, and 7.56) and (0.65, 0.68, and 0.50) for Ras, Domiati, and Mish cheeses, respectively.Conclusion: Enterotoxigenic S. aureus harboring seb gene and enteropathogenic E. coli (serogroups O18, O114, and O125) were frequently isolated from soft and hard artisanal cheeses in Egypt. Therefore, strict hygienic measures should be applied during their manufacture, handing, and distribution.

Keywords: Domiati, E. coli virulence genes, Mish, Ras, S. aureus enterotoxins.
Use of saline contrast ultrasonography in the diagnosis of complete jugular vein occlusion in a horse
Authors: Corda Andrea , Columbano Nicolò , Secchi Valentina , Scanu Antonio , Parpaglia Maria Luisa Pinna , Careddu Giovanni Mario , Passino Eraldo Sanna
Published: November 2020

Background: Thrombophlebitis and thrombosis are the most common causes of jugular vein occlusion in horses. Medical and surgical treatments aim to recanalize the occluded vessel and reduce proximal venous congestion and edema.Case Description: The present report describes a clinical case of equine jugular vein thrombosis (JVT) with complete vein occlusion diagnosed by saline contrast ultrasonography (SCU) and confirmed by contrast venography.Conclusion: Our results demonstrated that the SCU test can be easily performed and objectively interpreted using standard ultrasound equipment; it is not expensive and it does not require x-ray exposure. The SCU test is a valid tool to assess vessel patency and presence of collateral circulation in JVT. The test could therefore be used to monitor the progression of the disease and the effectiveness of therapy against JVT in horses.

Keywords: Contrast, Equine, Jugular, Thrombus, Ultrasound.
Knowledge, attitude and perception of related toxicity of pesticide exposure in humans and animals in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Oridupa O.A.
Published: November 2020

This study reported knowledge, attitude and perception of pesticide use among farmers to determine the level of farmers’ education on use and handling of pesticides. Data on pesticide types purchased were collected from pet-shops and agro-allied stores in three states in Nigeria. Questionnaires were administered to 100 farmers within Ibadan (Oyo State) to determine specific pesticides used, handling procedures adopted by farmers, protective measures employed and perception of toxic potentials of pesticides to human handlers and exposed animal. Survey reports showed majority used DDVP, 34% of farmers were uneducated, while 42%, 18% and 6% had primary, secondary and tertiary education, respectively. About 63.5% had been farming for 11-20years, 75% kept poultry while others kept sheep/goat and cattle. About 75% sought information from extension agents on pesticide use. The farmers were aware pesticides pose health hazards to animals but only 75% knew it could affect humans, 40% knew of pesticide withdrawal period with diverse opinions on route of pesticide poisoning. The study concluded that farmers and pet-owners in Southwest Nigeria use pesticides unethically and majority are unaware of toxicity and hazards of misuse and handling of pesticides, consequently exposing themselves and animals to hazardous and toxic pesticide levels. Legislations on pesticides enacted to prevent pesticide abuse should be enforced and awareness campaigns intensified to enlighten farmers and pet-owners on potential hazard pesticides pose to themselves, animals and environment. This would eventually prevent unnecessary exposure through misuse/mishandling of pesticides and create a safer ecosystem at large.

Keywords: Attitude, Knowledge, Perception, Pesticide, Toxicity
Effects of Allium cepa L. peels extract on gonadotropins, testosterone and sperm variables in Oba Marshal broiler cocks
Authors: Adeleye O.E. , Adeleye A.I. , Adetomiwa A.S. , Ariyo O.E.
Published: November 2020

Allium cepa (onion), a natural seasoning agent that contains significant amounts of potent antioxidants in its scaly leaves is used in folkloric medicine to manage several diseases globally. Antioxidants have an essential effect on sperm health parameters; however, there is limited information on the effects of Allium cepa scaly leaf extract on reproductive functions in Oba Marshal breeder cocks. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of the aqueous extract of Allium cepa scaly leaf on reproductive functions in sexually matured Oba Marshal breeder cocks. Allium cepa bulbs were obtained from a market in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Dry scaly leaves were peeled, pulverised, macerated in distilled water, filtered and concentrated. Twenty, 42 weeks old Oba Marshal breeder cocks (3.48 – 3.62 kg) were divided into 4 groups (n = 5) and treated daily for 2 weeks thus: CT (control, distilled water, 0.5 mL/kg), T2 (extract 200 mg/kg/bird), T4 (extract 400 mg/kg/bird), T8 (extract 800 mg/kg/bird). Sperm characteristics were assessed microscopically. Testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) were analysed using ELISA. Data were analysed using ANOVA at α0.05. Treated birds had significantly (p < 0.05) higher sperm motility, morphology but non-significant changes in sperm viability and concentration compared with the controls. Also, serum FSH and LH significantly increased, while testosterone had no significant change in test groups compared to the control. Aqueous extract of Allium cepa scaly leaf improved testicular functions and morphology in the test cocks. The reproductive function enhancement of the extract may be due to its antioxidant effect.

Keywords: Allium cepa, Breeding, Broiler cocks, Spermatogenesis, Testosterone
Alterations in haematological parameters of multiple in-utero insonated rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
Authors: Idris S.Y. , Lawal M , Enam J.S. , Muhammed M.S. , Saleh A
Published: November 2020

The fact that ultrasound is generally perceived as a safe imaging modality due to its use of non-ionizing radiation encouraged its increasing use in the diagnosis of cyesis in Veterinary practice. Ultrasound heating during obstetric scans has the potential of increasing body temperature via absorption. The study was conducted to determine the effect of multiple prenatal ultrasounds scanning on haematological parameters of rabbit fetuses. The research involves in vivo experimental model using 16 pregnant does and exposing them to ultrasound for average of 5 minutes at day 7, 12, 15, 20, 25, 27 and 29 of gestation. They were divided into two groups as insonated and control, the restrain and scanning procedures were mimicked on the group of does that were not scanned (positive control). Upon parturition, blood samples were collected from the kits via jugular venesection into ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid containing tubes for haematology. There was a significant reduction (p < 0.05) of red blood cell count and haemoglobin concentration of insonated group. Values of packed cell volume and platelet were lower but not significant (p > 0.05) in insonated as against the control while a non-significant slight increase in total white blood cell count was seen in the control. Therefore, ultrasound heating from multiple in-utero exposure can possibly cause alterations in haematological values in Rabbits.

Keywords: Fetus, Haematology, Insonation, In-utero, Rabbit, Ultrasound
Melatonin and garlic cytoprotective-ameliorative effects on dibutyl phthalate intoxication on sperm DNA and testicular biomakers of rabbits
Authors: Shinkut M , Aluwong T , Rekwot P.I. , Nwannenna A.I. , Samuel F.U.
Published: November 2020

The study investigated the cytoprotective and ameliorative effects of melatonin and Allium sativum (garlic) on dibutyl phthalate (DBP)-induced oxidative stress, its impact on sperm DNA integrity and testicular oxidative stress biomarkers. Forty two rabbit bucks were randomly divided into 7 groups of 6 bucks each labeled as A, B, C, D, E, F and G: The treatment were as follows: A (served as negative control, received olive oil for 16 weeks); B (served as positive control, exposed to DBP for 16 weeks, no treatment); C (given melatonin for 8 weeks, thereafter DBP for 8 weeks); D (administered garlic for 8 weeks, thereafter DBP for 8 weeks); E (exposed to DBP for 8 weeks, thereafter melatonin for 8 week); F (exposed to DBP for 8 weeks, thereafter garlic for 8 weeks); and G (exposed to DBP for 8 weeks, thereafter melatonin + garlic for 8 weeks). Ejaculated semen was collected on the last day (112th) using artificialv vagina for rabbit and pooled for each group was used for sperm DNA fragmentation index (SDFI) determination, rabbits were sacrificed and the testes harvested for determination of superoxide dismutase activity, reduced glutathione and malondialdehyde concentration. Results showed a significant increase (P = 0.0018) in the mean SDFI in group B (78.20 ± 4.72), compared to other groups. A significant increase (P ≤ 0.0001) in superoxide dismutase activity, increase reduced glutathione concentration and decrease malondialdehyde concentrations in the treatment groups compared to the DBP exposed group without treatment (group B) were observed. Melatonin and garlic demonstrated cytoprotective and ameliorative effects against DBP-induced oxidative stress in rabbit bucks.

Keywords: Dibutyl phthalate, Garlic, Melatonin, Sperm DNA, Testicular biomarkers
Outbreak and management of Salmonella Enteritidis infection in 2-week-old Lohmann brown pullets
Authors: Oladele O.O. , Ameji N.O. , Gurumyen G.Y. , Omoniwa O.D. , Joseph E
Published: November 2020

Avian salmonellosis has huge economic and public health impact. In this manuscript, a case of S. Enteritidis and its management within Jos Metropolis was reported. Fiftythree carcasses of 2-weeks old pullets were presented at the poultry and fish clinic of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Jos, Nigeria for investigation. There was persistent mortality despite 5 days medication with 20% Enrofloxacin (Floxinor®, Shijiazhuang Guanghua Pharmaceutical co. Ltd, Hebei, China). Cumulative mortality within 14 days was 203 birds in a flock of 4,000. Necropsy was done and harvested were subjected to microbial analysis for bacterial isolation, identification and antibiotic susceptibility test while portions of these organs were preserved in 10% formalin for histopathology. Necropsy findings were empty crops, hepatitis with petechial hemorrhages, nephritis, congested and consolidated lungs, peritonitis, congested spleens and mild enteritis. Histologically, there were vacuolation and necrosis of renal tubular epithelia cells and interstitial infiltration with heterophils. Severe disorganization of hepatic cords, infiltration with inflammatory cells and mild necrosis of hepatocytes were observed, while there was severe congestion and diffuse hemorrhages in the lungs. Cellular infiltration within the lamina propria of small intestine with stunting and blunting of the villi were observed. Organism isolated on MacConkey agar was identified as Salmonella Enteritidis. Antibiotic susceptibility test showed the organism to be most susceptible to Streptomycin, which was administered via drinking water at dosage of 40mg/kg with good recovery of the flock. It was concluded that the occurrence of Salmonella Enteritidis infection in this flock might be from the hatchery or via ingestion of contaminated feed and water. Day old chicks should be screened for Salmonella infection and strict biosecurity should be instituted on poultry farms.

Keywords: Mortality, Necrosis, Pullets, Salmonella Enteritidis, streptomycin
Women in Igbo traditional religion and politics: prospects for women’s political leadership role in Nigeria
Authors: Muonwe Michael
Published: November 2020

The struggle for political visibility, participation, and leadership of women has been a recurrent issue in all societies, including the most developed democracies. Whereas an appreciable improvement has been recorded in many western countries, Africa still ranks low generally as far as gender inclusivity in political leadership is concerned. Some scholars on Igbo society and culture cling to the popular opinion of blaming this scenario on colonialism. Such scholars usually paint an image of an ideal, precolonial, egalitarian Igbo society where women were more or less accorded more political and leadership space than in the present. In their opinion, reclaiming the past is a sure way to better gender inclusivity in politics. This paper is designed to interrogate critically such images of the past Igbo society. The author approaches the paper with the belief that such romantic view of the past, if not cautiously guided and critically appraised, may well result in nostalgia for a past that never was. The paper aims at hermeneutical-critical reading of women’s visibility and/or invisibility in the pre-colonial Igbo political leadership landscape, with the view of presenting a possible link of the present situation with the past, as well as tracing from this a path for the future of women’s political visibility, participation, and leadership in Nigeria.

Keywords: Igbo, women, politics, leadership, colonialism
Sound leadership: a tool for harnessing the educational and economic values of indigenous languages
Authors: Ugochukwu Chinweude N.
Published: November 2020

Africa is one of the world’s richest continents laden with tangible and intangible natural resources. Despite the wealth of natural resources, many African citizens are still living in great penury, frustration and hopelessness. Striving to provide solution to the challenges of poverty in Africa may hold no water without the recognition of the role and impact of indigenous languages in the educational and economic sectors. It is observed that developed countries ardently project, preserve, protect, promote and commodify their languages for educational and economic purposes while developing countries lack the political will to do the same for their indigenous languages, hence the failure to harness the values thereof. The paper argues that the diverse and dynamic indigenous language heritage is an enabling resource for developing communities to actively participate in the knowledge economy and initiate development within their communities themselves. The knowledge economy is the economic part of the information society in which the creation and utilization of knowledge play a principal role in the creation of wealth. African leadership must strive to enable most of the indigenous languages to become the instruments of work and scientific understanding. The study argues that with the right leadership, the educational and economic values of indigenous languages can be harnessed.

Keywords: Sound leadership, educational, economic, indigenous languages
Ilu Igbo: Igosipụta Ọnọdụ Ụmụnwaanyị n’ọkwa Ọchịchị n’ala Igbo
Authors: Umezi Patrick Ikenna
Published: November 2020

Nchọcha a bụ maka Ilu Igbo: Igosipụta ọnọdụ ụmụnwaanyị n’ọkwa ọchịchị n’ala Igbo. Ihe nwanchọcha bu n’obi bụ izipụta etu ndị Igbo si eji ilu dị iche iche ha ji achọ okwu mma ezipụta na ụmụnwaanyị enweghi ọnọdụ n’ọchịchị n’ala Igbo. Nkụ dị na mba na-eghere mba nri. Ndị Igbo na-esi n’ilu dị iche iche were ezipụtaomenala ha. A bị a n’ala Igbo, ụmụnwaanyị bụ ndị a na-eleda anya nke ukwuu n’ihe gbasara ọnọdụ ọchịchị obodo dị iche iche. Odee nyochara ọnọdụ ọchịchị n’ala Igbo bido n’oge ochie ruo ugbu a; o mere ka o doo anya na n’agbanyeghị na usoro ọchịchị Bekee mere ka onye ọbụla nwee nhatanha ọnụokwu n’usoro ọchịchị mba ọbụla, ọ ka bụ ihe siri ike ugbu a nwaanyị ijide ọkwa ọchịchị n’ala Igbo. Ihe ndị a na-apụta ihe site n’ilu ndị Igbo ji ekwu okwu. Ụfọdụ ilu ndị ahụ bụ ndị a: Nwaanyị lerịa di ya, ike akpọọ ya nkụ., Ụbọchị di nwaanyị nwụrụ ka ọnụ mmiri okwu ya gwụrụ. Odee gara n’ihu wee jụọ ihe a ga-eme iji hụ na onye ọbụla nwere nhatanha ọnụokwu n’ọchịchị ododo dị iche iche. Ka o sila dị, ọ kọwapụtara na e nweela mgbanwo pụtatra ihe n’etu ndị Igbo si elegara ụmụnwaanyị anya n’ihe gbasara ọchịchị . Nke a pụtara na ụmụnwaanyị ji nwayọọ nwayọọ na-abanye n’ọkwa ọchịchị dị iche iche ugbu a.

English Abstract

Igbo Proverbs: X -Ray of the position of women in leadership position in Igboland. The writer intends to manifest how the Igbos use their proverbs to show that women have no chance in Igbo leadership position. The research was guided by transformational theory of leadership. The researcher traced the history of Igboleadership system from the time prior to the advent of the colonial masters till the present age. It was discovered that the Igbos look down on women when it comes to major decision making. They manifest this attitude through the proverbs they use in their daily conversations. Some of those proverbs are Nwaanyị lerịa di ya, ike akpọọ ya nkụ.(If a woman kooks down on her husband she would have a dry buttocks) Ụbọchị di nwaanyị nwụrụ ka ọnụ mmiri okwu ya gwụrụ. (whenever a woman loses her husband, she loses her speep saliva). However, it was noticed that in the present age, women are gradually being recognized in decision making process among the Igbos. He finally advocates that gender should not prevent peoples’ participation in leadership. Every person should be equal before the law. As such, women should not be excluded from leadership position among the Igbo.
Nigerian politicians and the leadership question in Emeka Nwabueze’s A Parliament of Vultures and Alex Asigbo’s The Reign of Paschal Amusu
Authors: Iroh Emmanuel O.
Published: November 2020

African countries have consistently been involved in civil unrest, political instability, threats of secession, selection instead of election as well as rigging of elections, sit tight leaders and many more malaise. Despite the fact that Africa is blessed with enough human, material and natural resources, yet most of these resources have been grossly mismanaged or fretted away by her leaders who have refused to rise above board. The aim of the research is to portray the efforts of our dramatists in exposing the machinations of our leaders in their quest to retain power and acquire wealth to the detriment of the masses. The objectives of the study is to expose some these devices and enlighten the public on the schemes of their leaders and politicians who pretend to be serving the public whilein the real sense are enriching themselves while impoverishing the masses as well as to expose the different ways in which these heinous crime against the people are perpetrated. The research adopted the qualitative methodology and a context analysis approach of two drama texts of Emeka Nwabueze and Alex Asigbo. The findings show that politicians adopt many tactics to fulfill their selfish and inordinate ambitions to the detriment of the nation which this paper sets to interrogate. The paper therefore concludes that drama has continued to be a potent tool in exposing societal ills. The study recommends conscientization and reawaking of national consciousness of both the leaders and the general public.

Keywords: Leaders, Politicians, Dramatists, Masses
Security challenges and leadership in Africa, 1960-2019
Authors: Chukwu James C. , Anachunam Chinelo Chizoba
Published: November 2020

There is need to develop a new approach towards understanding behind the prevailing level of insecurity in Africa. The continent is in the grip of various destructive forces that are coalescing to give it a failed – status toga. The current state of insecurity in most African countries is a manifestation of deep-rooted and structurally entrenched crisis of development that creates the environment for the emergence of conditions of poverty, unemployment, and inequality in those countries. These in turn, lead to frustration, alienation and, ultimately, social discontent that spark violence and insecurity. Without the enabling environment, these conditions could not have metamorphosed into serious national security problem threatening to tear the countries apart. Although Africa may appear to be failing, the trends leading to this situation are reversible, if seriously proactive and sustained measures could be adopted by African leaders. Policymakers have the duty to arrest this drift through social justice and development. It is on this backdrop that this paper examines this core issues on security challenges and leadership in Africa. The work also highlighted the linkage between development and security in Africa. The work also adopted secondary sources of data such as books, journal articles, newspapers and internet sources. Also used was the historical approach in its analysis. Reports obtained from these sources formed the bulk of this Research’s tool of assessment.

Keywords: Security, Challenges, Leadership, Development, Africa
From Holy workers to profiteers in Luke 20:9-16: the waning values of Christian leadership in Nigeria
Authors: Uyovwieyovwe Isiorhovoja Osbert
Published: November 2020

The paper examines the biblical underpinnings of virtues that should characterised Christian leadership as stewards. The gradual disappearance of these qualities is evidenced in the cheap exchange of the cherished tradition on the altar of mammon. This phenomenon has had its toll on some religious leaders, who unknowingly have goofed from being holy workers to profiteers in God’s vineyard. The paper adopts expository approach and critical interpretation of the texts. It discovers that while some leaders have remained faithful as God’s servants, others have indulge in the habit of making merchandise of the gospel; bearing ulterior motive as holy profiteers looking for every opportunity to maximise personal gains with caution thrown to the wind. This attitude has not only brought shame and disrespect but disrepute to their persons. Consequently, we have leaders who are depraved indulging in all kinds of vices with unworthy behaviours, such as commercialisation of the gospel, half-baked doctrines and falsification geared towards self-enrichment and woeful threefold manifestation of lust towards wine, women and wealth. The paper therefore concludes by calling on religious leaders to borrow leaf from the life of Prophet Amos who adopted a total denunciation of social evil, rebuking those in political offices sternly without compromise as well as Apostle Paul who set aside all other benefits for the sake of knowing Him, who laboured diligently and earned fame with self-contentment. To shun all forms of undue entanglement with worldly affairs, to seek the face of God and play the prophetic and intercessory roles on behalf of the people which is the primary assignment of holy workers thereby restoring the dignity of leadership and the beauty of the vocation.

Keywords: Holyworker, profiteer, mammon, contentment, virtues
Bush allowance and alienation: a challenge to African leadership and development in Kaine Agary’s Yellow-Yellow
Authors: Ezenwa-Ohaeto Ngozi , Ezeugo Toochukwu John
Published: November 2020

African countries have experienced various forms of alienation both from natural occurrences and human forces. Environmental hazards have displaced some people from their parents and their ancestral homes. On the other hand, exploitation, privatization and uneven distribution of natural resources of the people by few privileged individuals, especially the politicians, have also alienated the people from their environment. Attempt to agitate or these factors of displacement and alienation often leads to a compromise and reliance on meager allocation of bush allowance which serves as compensation to the people. It is no doubt that this denial of collective participation of people in decision, especially as it concerns their welfare and natural minerals, has contributed to poor leadership and under development of Africa amidst her abundant resources. The alienation of people from decision has become some sort of abortion of dreams and suppression/ obliteration of ingenuity capable of transformation and development. This study is a qualitative research which seeks to textually explore the concept of bush allowance and alienation in Agary’s Yellow-Yellow in order to examine the extent they affect leadership quality and development in Africa, especially in Niger-delta of Nigeria. To do this the principle of Eco-centrism and the theory of Empowerment are used as analytical models as well as theoretical framework. Findings revealed that exploitation of natural minerals by those in authority has more adverse effects on the people than the environmental forces. The alienation of people from the decision making process creates imbalance and violence in society which deter development especially in Africa. This study also shows that over dependence in bush allowance affects self development and empowerment. The study therefore concludes that the development of a people is in their hands.

Keywords: Bush allowance, leadership, alienation, development, Yellow-Yellow
The role of music in leadership: a case study of the governance of Imo State from 2011-2019
Authors: Ojukwu Ebele Veronica , Abiakwu Chima Albert
Published: November 2020

It is almost resulting to overemphasis to state that music is as old as man, since it is close to impossible to picture a particular time when nature did not furnish man and his society with music. It is equally safe to opine that ever since the need arose for humanity to exist in society as against isolationism, leadership has been present in various shades and with varying degrees of opposition and acceptance. In all civilizations and societies past and present, there has always been a both covert and overt relationship of interdependency between music and leadership since the duo have a common objective which is to better humanity and make the human society efficient, safe and productive. In line with the facts above, this article unveiled the numerous roles which music has played in leadership and vice versa, using their relationship as seen in the governance of Imo State from 2011-2019 as case study. The method used, involved both personal observations of the author as an active member of this society, analysis of the works of some socio-political commentators, analysis of the activities, associations and alliances forged by some political and economic leaders of this society under study, presentation, interpretation and analysis of some musical tracks which have had swaying effects on the trajectory of leadership and the reactions of the masses to these songs. The study discovered that aside the entertainment function of music in this society, it was a strong determinant factor for the ways by which leaders related with the masses and vice versa and was also very instrumental in determining the level of acceptance which the masses conferred on their leaders. The author concluded this study by recommending that political and economic leaders should build on this relationship and partner with musicians to chart a path for functional, efficient and more rewarding humanity.

Keywords: Music, Musician, Leadership, Governance, Imo State
The value of good liturgical music
Authors: Achikeh Cordis-Mariae , Umeugochukwu Raphael
Published: November 2020

It is disturbing that in recent times, the worshiping community in the capacity of some church ministers, composers and musicians have deviated from the specifications of liturgical music even as recommended by Vatican Council II (The Constitution of The Sacred Liturgy). Also misunderstood and misappropriated is the idea of inculturation that permits composers in different countries to write music using the language of the locality as well as the indigenous instruments. This is partly due to inadequate enlightenment and training on the part of the liturgical music practitioners on the real meaning of liturgical music. A lot ofproblems have come up from these misconceptions and misinterpretations which include but a few making noise in place of music, negligence of the core features of liturgical music ranging from little or no attention to the solemn nature of the liturgy to relevance for some unimaginable selfish interests. In remedying these challenges, the researcher has made lots of recommendations. One of them is that the practitioners of liturgical music be exposed through seminars and workshops to relevant church documents on liturgical music from time to time. It is necessary and most pertinent that the church retains its solemnity in worship as against the recent mediocrity which has come to envelop the liturgical music making practices. The great value of good liturgical music needs to be sustained.

Keywords: Liturgical Music, Gregorian Chant, Sacred Polyphony, Instrumental Music, Catholic Church, Liturgical Musician, Choir, Congregation
Human rights and leadership in Africa: the Nigerian connection in Buhari Administration
Authors: Azuakor Okwuchukwu
Published: November 2020

Human Rights are moral norms or principles which describe certain standards of human behaviour. These rights are regarded under municipal and international law as natural and legal entitlements of all individuals and are thus protected. Such rights include right to life, right to social security, right to freedom of thought, right to freedom of speech, right to religious freedom, right to private property, right to democracy, right to gainful employment, etc. The United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights lists 30 of such rights. The Nigerian constitution also covers human rights. But leadership in Africa has many times been faced with issues of abuse of human rights; Nigeria not being an exception. This paper is interested in investigating the extent to which these rights have been respected or abused in Africa, but with special focus on Nigeria, and the Buhari administration as the special interest. The theoretical framework is the historical and the tools of enquiry are the critical, the analytical and expository. Recommendations include: evolution of solid political ideology of leadership couched on service for Africa by Africans, demolition of the cankerworm of tribalism in Africa/Nigeria, the elimination of religious fanaticism, education in ideal humanity from earliest childhood, etc.

Keywords: Human Rights, Africa, Nigeria, leadership, Buhari administration
5E Learning Cycle in Practicing Written and Oral Argumentation Skills
Authors: Valensa Yossyana  , Nadi Suprapto  , Tjipto Prastowo
Published: November 2020

The argumentation ability plays an important role in the support of life skills required in the 21st century, but it has been recently found that this ability among students remains at a low level. This situation has asked for intervention to make the necessary skills improved. Thus, this study aims to examine students’ argumentation skills in written and oral senses by implementing the 5E Learning Cycle in a classroom setting and to analyze the effects of the implementation on ability the skills. The design of this study was pre-experimental research using one group pretest-posttest method. The learning materials used during the study were syllabus, lesson plans, handouts, worksheets, and exercises. Meanwhile, the ability of scientific argumentation skills was evaluated and assessed using pretest-posttest given and interviews in the form of descriptive questions and the corresponding guidelines. The results of the study are here reported as three separate findings. Firstly, the application of the 5E Learning Cycle in science learning allowed the students to practice their scientific argumentation skills. Secondly, direct observations found that most activities were well performed during classroom learning. Thirdly, group discussions in the 5E Learning Cycle have a good contribution to the students' scientific argumentation skills.
Innovative Learning Model: Improving The Students' Scientific Literacy Of Junior High School
Authors: Aprido B. Simamora  , Wahono Widodo  , I Gusti Made Sanjaya
Published: November 2020

In the strict challenges faced by society, a paradigm shift is needed in the education system that can provide a set of 21st century skills needed by students to deal with every aspect of global life. One of them is scientific literacy. Unfortunately, the scientific literacy ability of students in Indonesia is still low. The Inquiry and SETS models have been widely applied to improve students' scientific literacy skills. However, weaknesses are found such as: students still cannot use their content knowledge to explain scientific phenomena perfectly; and the need for more in-depth inquiry activities so that students' abilities in designing and evaluating scientific investigations obtain excellent results. Therefore, innovation was created to develop the BRADeR learning model based on consideration of the strengths and weaknesses of the inquiry model and SETS as well as theoretical and empirical support. This research serves as a preliminary study in the process of developing the BRADeR model to improve students' scientific literacy skills. This study includes a needs analysis and literature review. The results show that innovation can be maintained as a basis for developing a hypothetical model of the BRADeR learning model. The syntax of the BRADeR model includes: brainstorming, reading, analyzing, decision making, and reflection. The hypothetical model of the BRADeR learning model must be tested to meet the aspects of validity, practicality, and effectiveness to improve the scientific literacy skills of junior high school students.
Implementation of Islamic Senior Hight School Academic Quality Assurance (Multi-Site Study at Islamic Senior High School of Surabaya and Islamic Senior High School of 2 Malang)
Authors: Andiek Widodo  , Yatim Riyanto  , Erni Roesminingsih
Published: November 2020

This study aims to examine the implementation of academic quality assurance, as well as the strategies and models used in improving academic quality assurance in the Islamic Senior High School of Surabaya and Islamic Senior High School of 2 Malang. This study used a qualitative approach with a multi-site research design. Based on the results of the research that has been done, it is concluded that the implementation of academic quality assurance in the process of implementing education at Madrasahs has been carried out well in improving the quality of learning, academic achievement, and competitiveness of these madrasah graduates. The implementation of quality assurance can be done using the first strategy, the leadership has given trust and responsibility in implementing management guidelines, second, the madrasah activity program is socialized intensively, and third, the preparation of learning tools that are carried out collaboratively. Overall, the implementation of madrasah academic quality assurance has been carried out according to national education standards.
Collaborative Problem-based Learning: An Analysis of Problem-Solving Skills in Vocational Schools
Authors: Rachmad Syarifuddin Hidayatullah  , Sudirman Rizki Ariyanto  , Muhaji  , Mubarok Husni , Yohannes Abebayehu
Published: November 2020

This study aims to analyze the effect of using Collaborative Problem-Based Learning (CPBL) on students' problem-solving skills. This study used a 2x2 factorial design, in which the selection of experimental and control groups was determined with convenience sampling. The data analysis technique of this research is divided into two types, namely the prerequisite analysis test and hypothesis testing. The findings of this study concluded that students who studied with CPBL had significantly higher problem-solving skills than students who studied with Direct Instruction (DI). In addition, high problem-solving skills were generally owned by students with high initial skills. Meanwhile, the complete the results of the hypothesis test this study also showed a significant interaction between the learning model and initial skills on students' problem-solving skills in internal combustion motor competences. This shows that the selection of the right learning model is needed according to the initial skills of students so that problem-solving skills can be adequately developed. Thus, it is hoped that vocational school students can become graduates who can compete in the world of work.