bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accuracy of Gravimetric Method of Blood Loss Estimation during Open Myomectomy
Authors: Osakwe Chukwudi R. , Mbachu Ikechukwu I , Osakwe Oluchi J. , Ikpeze Okechukwu C.
Published: June 2023

Background:

Estimation of blood loss during surgery is a critical component that may affect patients’ management.

Objective:

The study evaluated the accuracy of the gravimetric method of blood loss estimation in women with an open myomectomy.

Materials and Methods:

This was a cross-sectional analytical study that evaluated the accuracy of the gravimetric method of measuring blood loss during open myomectomy for patients with symptomatic fibroid at a Teaching Hospital in Nigeria. The diagnosis of uterine fibroids was based on clinical examination and ultrasound scan. A proforma was used to record information from those who gave written consent. The gravimetric method and visual estimation were compared with the actual blood loss (ABL) as the gold standard. Statistical analysis was done using Stata version 16. Student's t-test was used to compare the mean blood loss estimation of the different methods. The significant level was set at P-value <0.05.

Results:

A total of 78 women who had open myomectomy participated in the study. The mean ABL was 787.11 ± 63.17 mL. The mean blood loss by the gravimetric method was 755.95 ± 492.72 mL, while the mean estimation error by the gravimetric method was 31.16 ± 263.23 mL. The mean difference between the estimated ABL and the loss estimated by the gravimetric method was 31.18 mL. This was not statistically significant (P-value = 0.30). However, there was a statistically significant difference between the ABL and blood loss by visual method (mean difference = 161.64, P-value = 0.02).

Conclusion:

The gravimetric estimation of blood loss during surgery correlated with actual estimated blood loss. It should be considered in the routine estimation of blood loss during surgery.
Effect of Diet-Mediated Immune Optimization on Antihypertensive Drug Treatment Requirement
Authors: Chijioke Chioli P. , Okafor Michael T. , Okoli Uzoamaka A. , Ide Clinton , Obiefuna Adaobi G. , Effiong-Essien Ruphina C. , Nite Samuel C. , Nubila Nkoyo I. , Nwoke Obinna C. , Ali George U. , Anakwue Ralph C.
Published: June 2023

Background:

Claiming over 92 million adjusted life years per annum globally, systemic arterial hypertension is at the forefront of noncommunicable diseases and mandates urgent attention to the etiopathogenic mechanism rather than depending on suppressive drug therapies. Good diet, adequate sleep, and moderate-intensity exercise are immune optimizers as well as life-style modifiers and may have substantial impact on antihypertensive drug treatment requirements for blood pressure control in essential hypertension (EH).

Objective:

We appraised the impact of diet-mediated immune optimization on antihypertensive drug treatment requirement.

Materials and Methods:

This was a longitudinal study and part of an open clinical trial of a personalized food avoidance dietary to stop hypertension approved by the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Ethics Committee. Drug treatment parameters assessed were antihypertensive drug prescription, adherence, actual treatment (AdhRx), and antihypertensive drug treatment requirement (ADTR) scores. ADTR score was determined by adding or subtracting 0.1 to AdhRx score for every mmHg that average systolic automated office blood pressure or average systolic home blood pressure get higher or lower than 120 and 100 mmHg, respectively.

Results:

There was no significant reduction of AdhRx and ADTR scores of study participants with good dietary compliance to a personalized food avoidance dietary approach to stop hypertension, although mean of the scores were lower than that of those with bad dietary compliance (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

We conclude that AdhRx and ADTR scores may serve as valid tools to assess the impact of diet-mediated immune optimization which addresses etiopathogenic dysfunction in EH.
Anxiety Levels of Children with Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia and Their Mothers at the Beginning of the COVID-19 Pandemic and Change in the First Year
Authors: Asfuroğlu Pelin , Şişmanlar Eyüboğlu Tuğba , Aslan Ayşe Tana , Ramaslı Gürsoy Tuğba , Soysal Acar Azime Şebnem , Yapar Dilek , İlhan Mustafa Necmi
Published: June 2023

We aimed to assess anxiety of children with primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) and their primary caregivers at the beginning of Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and change in levels of anxiety in first year with prolongation of pandemic. This was a two-step study; first step was questionnaire-based, conducted via teleconference. In first step, 29 patients and 105 healthy children and their mothers were participated; 25 children with PCD and their mothers were in second step. Demographic characteristics, clinical informations were recorded. Children’s and mothers’ state and trait anxiety levels were assessed and compared. Anxiety levels of mothers of patients were assessed according to clinical characteristics of children. Mothers’ knowledge of COVID-19 and effect of teleconference on their anxiety was evaluated. State anxiety levels in the first year of pandemic of children with PCD and their mothers were also compared. Compared to control group, state anxiety of children in 13-18 age group and trait anxiety of their mothers were lower (p<0.05). In both groups, trait and state anxiety of 13-18 years old children and mothers positively correlated. Trait anxiety of mothers of patients negatively correlated with patients’ FEV1 and MEF25-75. Patients’ mothers reported feeling less anxiety at the end of teleconference. Anxiety of mothers of patients (especially under 9 years old) had increased as pandemic continued. At the beginning of pandemic, children with PCD were less anxious than healthy children, and their mothers had lower trait anxiety than mothers of healthy children. Being followed for chronic disease and obtaining information about COVID-19 may have reduced anxiety of children with PCD and their mothers. However, as pandemic continues, need to protect their children with PCD from infection, especially of mothers with younger children, may have raised their concerns.
Santé rénale pour tous en Afrique subsaharienne : défis et perspectives
Authors: Sumaili Ernest Kiswaya
Published: June 2023

No abstract
Profil lipidique associé à l’obésité chez les adolescents à Brazzaville, Congo
Authors: Moussoki Jean Martin , Kambourou Judicaël , Moulongo Jean Georges André , Makosso-Vheiye Georges , Massamba Alphonse , Babela Jean Robert Mabiala
Published: June 2023

Context and objective. Lipid changes in obese children in Black Africa are poorly documented. The objectives of the present study to determine the lipid profile in obese adolescents and to analyze the associations between some anthropometric and lipid parameters. Methods. The cross-sectional study was conducted in Brazzaville among 82 adolescents aged 11 to 18 years, divided into 45 obese, 17 overweight, and 20 normal weight subjects. Measurements of height, weight, waist circumference, subscapular and tricipital skin folds were taken. Blood samples were taken to determine total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, and triglyceride concentrations. Results. Lipid concentrations in obese adolescents were significantly higher than those in normal weight subjects: total cholesterol, 1.70 vs. 1.59g/L; LDL-cholesterol, 1.03 vs. 0.88g/L; triglycerides, 1.18 vs. 0.86. However, HDL-cholesterol levels were significantly lower: 0.42 vs 0.51g/L. A positive correlation was found between waist circumference/height ratio and HDL cholesterol (r=0.75; p=0.031). Conclusion. Our results highlight the need to strengthen the management of obese children to prevent potential risk factors for cardiovascular disease in adulthood.

Contexte & objectif. Les modifications lipidiques chez les enfants obèses en Afrique noire sont peu documentées. Les objectifs de la présente étude étaient de déterminer chez les adolescents obèses le profil lipidique, et analyser les associations entre quelques paramètres anthropométriques et lipidiques. Méthodes. L’étude transversale a été réalisée à Brazzaville auprès de 82 adolescents âgés de 11 à 18 ans, répartis en 45 sujets obèses, 17 en état de surpoids et 20 poids normal. Des mesures de la taille, du poids, du tour de taille, des plis cutanés sous-scapulaire et tricipital ont été effectuées. Des prélèvements sanguins ont permis de déterminer les concentrations en cholestérol total, cholestérol-LDL, cholestérol-HDL et triglycérides. Résultats. Les concentrations lipidiques notées chez les adolescents obèses étaient significativement supérieures à celles des sujets de poids normal : cholestérol total, 1,70 vs 1,59g/L ; cholestérol-LDL, 1,03 vs 0,88g/L ; triglycérides, 1,18 vs 0,86. Par contre, celles du cholestérol-HDL étaient significativement inférieures : 0,42 vs 0,51g/L. Une corrélation positive a été retrouvée entre le rapport tour de taille/taille et le cholestérol-HDL (r=0,75 ; p=0,031). Conclusion. Nos résultats soulignent la nécessité de renforcer la prise en charge des enfants obèses afin de prévenir les facteurs de risque potentiels des maladies cardiovasculaires à l’âge adulte.
Tendance de la mortalité maternelle au Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire de Constantine entre 2012 et 2017
Authors: Foughali Badis , Lahmar Manar , Ouchtati Mohamed
Published: June 2023

Context and objective. Data about the trends of maternal mortality are scarce in Sub-Saharan Africa. The present study aimed to determine the evolutionary trend of maternal mortality over time and identify the causes of death. Methods. This was a retrospective observational study carried out at the Constantine University Hospital involving data of maternal mortality recorded between January 1st, 2012 and December 31st, 2017. Results. Seventy maternal deaths were deplored. The maternal mortality ratio is 101.3 deaths per 100,000 live births. Obstetric hemorrhage and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy were the leading causes of death. Triennial analysis shows a significant decrease in mortality from hemorrhage and anesthesia complications. Conclusion. This study allows drawing up a profile of the causes of maternal mortality, the level of which remains worrying and require a global strategy.

Contexte et objectifs. Les données sur la tendance de la mortalité maternelle sont fragmentaires en Afrique Subsaharienne. La présente étude avait pour objectif de faire une analyse triennale de l’évolution du taux de mortalité maternelle et identifier les causes de décès. Méthodes : Il s’agissait d’une étude observationnelle documentaire, sur la mortalité maternelle enregistrée ; au Centre hospitalo-universitaire de Constantine, entre le 1er Janvier 2012 et le 31 Décembre 2017. Résultats. Soixante-dix décès maternels ont été déplorés. Le taux de mortalité maternelle est de 101,3 décès pour 100 000 naissances vivantes. Les hémorragies obstétricales et les complications hypertensives de la grossesse sont les premières causes de mortalité. L’analyse des données triennales met en évidence une baisse importante de la mortalité par hémorragie et par complications de l’anesthésie. Conclusion. Cette étude a permis de dresser un profil des causes de la mortalité maternelle dont les niveaux restent inquiétants et requièrent une action globale.
Association entre gammapathie monoclonale de signification indéterminée et thrombose veineuse cérébrale : Une observation clinique inhabituelle
Authors: Ernestho-ghoud Indretsy Mahavivola , Soilihi Moustafa Abdou , Rajaonarison Ny Ony Narindra Lova Hasina , Raveloson Nasolotsiry Enintsoa , Ahmad Ahmad , Vololontiana Hanta Marie Danielle
Published: June 2023

Cerebral venous thrombosis associated to the monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance has been rarely reported. In this paper, we discuss the case of 68-year-old man who presented repeated comitial. A cerebral Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) showed cerebral venous thrombosis. The only biological abnormality highlighted was high level of monoclonal gammaglobulin. The coexistence of cerebral venous thrombosis and the monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance were fortuitous without causality links.

French Abstract

La thrombose veineuse cérébrale est rarement associée à une gammapathie monoclonale de signification indéterminée. Dans cet article, nous discutons le cas d’un homme de 68 ans, qui présentait une crise convulsive récidivante. L’IRM cérébrale montrait une thrombose du sinus sagittal supérieur. La seule anomalie biologique mise en évidence était l’augmentation monoclonale des gammaglobulines. La coexistence entre la thrombose veineuse cérébrale et la gammapathie monoclonale de signification indéterminée était fortuite sans lien de causalité.

Mots-clés : Thrombose veineuse cérébrale, Gammapathie monoclonale de signification indéterminée, Association Morbide, Madagascar
Biochar Systems in Ghana
Authors: Yeboah E. , Dugan E. , Nartey E. , Lawson I.Y.D. , Frimpong K.A. , Obiri B.D. , Egyir I. , Akom M. , Osei-Adu J. , Otabil P.K. , Ason B. , Allotey D.F.K. , Moses M. , Adiku S.G.K.
Published: June 2023

Biochar is a pyrolysed biomass, incorporated into soil for improvement of soil health. Biochar added to soils holds the potential of a triple-win for  livelihoods, environment and the climate. In environments where a lot of biomass is generated and poses disposable challenges, biochar remains a  viable alternative for solving both agronomic and environmental problems, especially in highly degraded soils. Considerable research into biochar over the years have indicated its potential to solve many environmental problems, however there is still lack of knowledge about specific aspects of biochar production and use. Also, a number of assertions related to the positive impact of biochar in agriculture have not been well explained scientifically and verified. In Ghana, research on biochar is recent and currently uncoordinated with research outputs not clearly documented and visible. There is the urgent need to review available information on biochar research outputs in Ghana and provide expert opinion on the feasibility of embedding the technology in specific farming systems. The aim of this paper is to present an in-depth review of biochar research in Ghana, as it relates to agriculture and environmental management. Challenges to the biochar technology, formulation, feedstock availability and adoption rates are discussed. There is  wide array of potential feedstocks for biochar production from agricultural residues. The -l quantity of biochar application has pronounced effect on  maize grain yield where 5 t ha -l significantly yielded more maize grain than 2.5 t ha . Soils amended with cocoa pod biochar increased maize grain yield  by 56 % compared to un-amended soil. Biochar can contribute to improving crop productivity on smallholdings although its supply and value chains are  not formalized and the product is unfamiliar in most farming communities. Policies that integrate biochar to sustainable intensification in agriculture is recommended.
Influence of extroversion and conscientiousness on information-seeking behaviour of lecturers in library and information science schools in Nigeria
Authors: Emenyonu Chinyere Cecilia , Unegbu Magnus Chukwuduziem
Published: June 2023

This study investigated the influence of extroversion and conscientiousness on information seeking behaviour of lecturers in library and information science schools that is not adequately documented, especially in South-east and South-south, Nigeria. It adopted the survey research design, census method of sampling technique to ensure that every lecturer studied was captured and self-constructed and validated questionnaire was used to collect data for the study. The findings showed that there is no significant influence between extroversion and informationseeking behaviour of lecturers in library and information science schools in South-east and South-south, Nigeria (𝑥2 cal = 313.96 ≥ 𝑥2 tab = 21.03) and conscientiousness and informationseeking behaviour of lecturers in library and information science schools in South-east and South-south, Nigeria (𝑥2 cal = 146.558 ≥ 𝑥2 tab = 21.03). This study recommended that academic libraries in South-east and South-south Nigeria should develop data based information on extroversion and conscientious lecturers to facilitate a favourable information seeking climate and that library staff should design an information search system based on extroversion and conscientiousness of lecturers.
Enforcement of economic, social and cultural rights in Nigeria
Authors: Obi Frederick Azubuike
Published: June 2023

Characterisation of Economic, Social and Cultural rights, under chapter II of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) as non-justiciable by S. 6(6)(c) of the same Constitution and its implication for state accountability and good governance informed the need for this article. The rights covered under Chapter II of the Constitution and rendered non-justiciable include the rights to education, health care, employment and housing. The performance of government, especially in developing countries is usually assessed by activities in these areas of need since they have direct bearing on the wellbeing of citizens. By rendering these rights unenforceable, S. 6(6)(c) of the Constitution effectively shields political leaders in government from being accountable to the mass majority in the provision of infrastructures and services that they required for a descent life. The same Nigerian Constitution under S. 46 renders enforceable Civil and Political rights in its Chapter IV – the rights to life, liberty, freedom of movement, freedom of Association and religion etc. This article sees the nexus between ECOSOC rights and Civil and Political rights as a justification for the enforcement of ECOSOC rights. This is because you cannot fully enjoy the right to life for example without good health, employment and housing. This paper therefore, recommended amongst others, the enforcement of ECOSOC rights, by expunging S. 6(6)(c) provision from the Constitution and replacing it with a clause that stipulates a minimum percentage of budgets of states and national governments that must be expended annually on ECOSOC related infrastructures and services. This will ensure accountability at all levels of government and actionable in court. The domestication by Nigeria of the African Charter on Human and Peoples‟ Rights endorses the enforcement of ECOSOC rights and further strengthens this process.
Unemployment and political participation in Africa: a study of Nigeria
Authors: Udeuhele Godwin Ikechukwu , Nkwede Joseph , Ibiam Okechukwu Egwu , Okechukwu Groupson-Paul Uchechukwu , Agudiegwu Moses Ogbonna
Published: June 2023

The rate of unemployment in Africa and particularly Nigeria is increasing at a geometrical progression. This apparently spells doom for the future generation if not checked as a matter of urgency. In the case of Africa and Nigeria in particular, evidences abound to buttress the interconnectedness among unemployment, economic inequality and political participation. This scenario has overwhelming implications for sustainable political development of Nigeria. This paper undertakes to unearth the interactions between unemployment and political participation in Nigeria adopting the Marxist theory of post-colonial state which underlies the political economy approach. Data are drawn from secondary sources which, to a large extent, brings to the fore that the unemployed become victims of economic inequality, and given the high stakes in Nigeria politics, are prone to political apathy, frustration and hopelessness. The paper vehemently proposes that government should exercise the political will to engage constructively in dismantling all seemingly governance and institutional hindrances to popular participation. It is therefore, recommended that money politics be discouraged using appropriate legal measures. Various empowerment and job creation programmes should be objectively implemented to ameliorate the high incidences of economic inequality as a result of unemployment thereby encouraging greater political participation in Nigeria.
Estimating household food budget shares and Engel’s food coefficient in a lean food supply month in Ghana: a micro data analysis
Authors: Addai Isaac
Published: June 2023

Using the 2017 Ghana Living Standards Survey Round Seven data, this study used the Working-Leser linear model on demographic and household specific variables to determine the lean food season month of July household food budget share, Engel food coefficient, marginal food budget share and food expenditure elasticity. The results demonstrate that a 10% increase in monthly household income decreases the share of the monthly household food budget by -0.0117 of a percentage point on average, and ceteris paribus, and the evidence shows that the underlying household July month Engel food curve is characterized by an inverse link between household monthly food budget share and the household monthly total income. The findings statistically established that food is a necessary commodity and the food demand elasticity assessment showed that a 10% increase in household spending would increase household monthly food needs by an average of 9.8%, and ceteris paribus.
Resistance to change and organizational performance: a study of selected universities in South West, Nigeria
Authors: Ume Eucharia C. , Agha Nancy C.
Published: June 2023

The study is on how change resistance affects university performance in South West, Nigeria. The study evaluated how passive, active, attachment and uncertainty change resistance affect organizational performance in the South West. The study surveyed 382 out of 8221 people. Descriptive analysis used mean and inter-item correlations, and hypotheses were tested using the Ordinal Linear-by-Linear Association model. Empirical studies demonstrated that passive change resistance affected organizational performance in higher education institutions in South West Nigeria. Active change resistance affected university performance in South West. Attachment change resistance and uncertain change resistance affected organizational performance in the South West. The report proposed that higher education institutions in Nigeria anticipate change and organization enablers as such culture, structure and people. If institutional reform is to go smoothly without resistance, its infrastructure must be improved.
Christ’s love and the church in Africa amidst Covid - 19 pandemic
Authors: Allison Chidimma Jessica , Okwuosa Lawrence
Published: June 2023

Africans are known for their traditional commitment to harmonious relationships at all levels of existence; a harmonious universe in which life is lived meaningfully. Unfortunately, African memory is one painfully scared as a result of deep divisions, gross injustice and severe conflicts. Added to the list today is the global Covid – 19 havoc which has not only complicated but also compounded the already existing problems in the continent. As world leaders are working to contain the pandemic and its havoc on human society, ascertaining the role of the Church in the entire scheme becomes pertinent. Amidst the pandemic, how is the Church responding to her universal mission and mandate? How is the Church witnessing and living out this mission in the pandemic? It is on this basis that the paper investigates the role of the Church in Africa as a source of communion, hope and strength in this period of crisis.
Child defilement in Kakamega county, Kenya and related factors
Authors: Chepkong'a Mike Kiplagat
Published: June 2023

In Kakamega County, child defilement is a public health and social problem, affecting many children. The prevalence of child defilement case in the County is significantly high. Research on the phenomenon of child defilement appears to be underdeveloped; but still ongoing. The trigger factors on the child defilement phenomenon seem to be linked on well known social issues. It is against this backdrop that the present study sought to establish the extent to which child defilement is associated with the prevailing socio-cultural and economic factors, substance abuse and family history. A descriptive survey design was employed to purposively pick and randomly select a sampling frame of 86 respondents comprising of 44 Gender Police Officers, 27 Social Workers, 9 Children Officers and 6 Probation Officers. Of the sampled respondents, seventy (70) of them were interviewed using a semi- structured questionnaire. Despite this scarcity of studies, this study empirically allowed the researcher to confirm that poor rural family attributes including socio-cultural factors related to past abuse (parental personal difficulties, past history, poor family structure and functioning as well as the characteristics of the environment that children grew from) could be associated to an increased risk for their child defilement. The study established that child defilement is a significant problem that exposes children to early pregnancies and marriages, HIV/AIDS and psychological trauma. Equally, majority of the defilements were perpetrated by persons known to the victims, namely family members and /or neighbours. Consequently, high levels of poverty, drug and alcohol abuse and ignorance of the illegality of the vices appeared to be key challenges in the fight against child defilement. It was therefore, concluded that child defilement can be fought more effectively by strengthening the existing, counselling, legal, child protection, rescue and gender recovery services.
Information literacy skills as predictor of electronic information resources use by lecturers in select private universities in South-West Nigeria
Authors: Ajayi Jide Lawrence , Haliso Yacob , Unegbu Vincent E.
Published: June 2023

This study examined the influence of information literacy skills on electronic information resources (EIRs) use by lecturers in private universities in South-West, Nigeria. Survey research design was adopted for the study. The target population for this study comprised 3201 lecturers in fifteen selected private universities in South-West, Nigeria which were established between 1999 and 2007. Out of 3201 study population, the researcher used Taro Yamane statistical formula to get a sample size of 356. A multistage sampling technique was adopted for the study. Bourley Proportional Distribution Formula was used to distribute the figure proportionally across the selected universities to ensure that the universities were proportionally represented. Data were collected with a validated questionnaire. The internal consistency of the instrument was measured using Cronbach’s alpha test which ranged from 0.74 – 0.96. A response rate of 76.2% was recorded. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings from the study revealed that information literacy skills (βeta=0.441, t (275) = 8.156, p<0.05) has a positive and significant influence on EIRs use by lecturers of universities in South-West, Nigeria.
Perceived Superiority Complex and Interpersonal Relationships in Medical Libraries in Nigeria: Confirmatory Factor Analysis Approach
Authors: Ayanbode Oluyemi Folorunsho , Ojeniyi Oyedele Abimbola , Kiakubu Timisuo Paul
Published: June 2023

This study examined the extent of library personnel's understanding of the concept 'superiority complex', its existence in medical libraries in Nigeria and how it influences their interpersonal relationships. The study adopted a quantitative method using a survey as the research design. Total enumeration sampling technique was used to select all library personnel in 300 medical libraries in Nigeria. An online questionnaire was used to collect data. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency counts, mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics using structural equation modeling. Seventy-eight library personnel participated in the study. The Confirmatory Factor Analysis showed that the measurement model produced an acceptable fit: x2= 476.090, df= 328, CFI= 0.898, TLI= 0.882, RMSEA= 0.077(0.061-0.091), RMR=0.098 SRMR= 0.072. Further empirical evidence showed that even at moderate level, perceived superiority complex had negative relationship with interpersonal relationships among library personnel in medical libraries in Nigeria. The results suggest that a decrease in perceived superiority complex is highly beneficial to increasing positive interpersonal relationships among the participants. Wherefore, the significance of the findings of this study lies in the fact that it will create awareness on the need to identify the affected library personnel for appropriate counselling or psychotherapy recommendation. Self-assessment and seeking help are also crucial to reducing the level of superiority complex and checking attitudes that are detrimental to positive interpersonal relationships and professionalism.
Librarians as change agents for sustainable library and information service delivery in a digital society
Authors: Horsfall Millie N.
Published: June 2023

This paper investigates the role of Librarians as change agents for sustainable library and information service delivery in a digital society. The purpose of the study were: to ascertain the types of Library and information service delivery; to investigate Librarians’ role as change agents for sustainable library and information service delivery; to find out the challenges librarians face as change agents for sustainable library and information service delivery; and to proffer solution to enhance librarians’ role as change agents towards the sustainable library and information service delivery in a digital society. The study adopts a conceptual review based on previous research. It was recommended that Librarians as change agents should re-examine and reconfigure their job roles in library and information service delivery for relevance in their field, there is a need to meet up with their multi-dimensional job roles to sustain library and information service delivery in a digital society. More so, adequate funding, training and retraining, tooling, and retooling to avoid phobia for loss of job/ insecurity should be provided for librarians/libraries to keep up with effective service delivery. The study concludes that sustainable library and information service delivery in libraries generally and for librarians in particular will enhance their multi-dimensional job roles today and tomorrow to know what has changed in a digital society.
Nigerian Traditional Economy in the Ethnography of Paul Bohannan
Authors: Ugwu Ugochukwu Titus
Published: June 2023

African traditional economics has attracted the interest of colonial hegemonic scholars who wanted to fathom the rationale behind the peasant socioeconomic structure. In Nigeria, there is a corpus of ethnographers who have studied some of the societies that make up Nigeria. In this article, my  deliberately restricted aim is to reassess Bohannan’s studies on Nigerian peasant economies as a contribution to anthropological knowledge. Paul  Bohannan studied the Tiv economy. In the literature on colonial knowledge and traditional economics in British Nigeria, Paul Bohanna’s Tiv economy has  generated a whole lot of theoretical mainstreaming in economic anthropology.
Indigenous systems of forest conservation: a tool for traditional medical practices in Akyem Abuakwa traditional area of Ghana
Authors: Bempong Emmanuel , Adu-Gyamfi Samuel , Darkwa Benjamin Dompreh
Published: June 2023

Forest conservation is a very important concept across the world. It is not only crucial for climate change but also very critical for the survival of humanity.  In Africa, forests have always been an important aspect of nature that is regarded with uttermost reverence and care. Importantly, discussions  on health, healthcare, culture, economics and other factors have been associated with forests. Part of this benefit is the use of herbs from the forests for local medicinal purposes. The current study sought to ascertain the value of conserving forests resources for indigenous herbal medicine  among the Akyem Abuakwa people of Ghana. Among other things, it aimed at exploring the indigenous means or methods of conserving forests in  Africa. The study adopted a purely qualitative research approach, with a blend of interviews and secondary materials. From the current discourse, it was  revealed that African traditional medicine, both spiritual and physical, make very good use of the forests. From earliest times, several strategies and  indigenous knowledge systems were deployed to ensure a proper means for the protection of herbal plants, trees and animal parts to enhance the  practice of traditional medicine in Akyem Abuakwa. Based on the findings and discussions arising from the research, we argue that rigorous education  and orientation programmes toward the protection and sustenance of the forest environment should suffice. Howbeit, the discussions and debates  surrounding African indigenous forest conservation and its contribution to African medicinal resources appear to be complex. Such puzzlement must be  resolved with continuous research beyond this current contribution.
The Hand of Irulegi Basque-Iberism return after seventy years of dismissal
Authors: Arnaiz-Villena Antonio , Juarez Ignacio
Published: June 2023

The Hand of Irulegi is a Iberian bronze plate with a hand shape which is scripted with Iberian-Tartesian signs and has been found in an archaeological  site (at Mt Irulegi) close to Pamplona, Navarre (Spain). It was probably fabricated at the 1st century BC to be hanged at the outside house door. Part os  the Iberian signs have been officially transcripted and translated by official scholars by using Basque meaning of Iberian wording. It implies that Basque- Iberism returns to official scholars after about 70 years of dismissal. In this work, we have proposed a transcription and translation of the full four lines of  the inscription by using phonetic-semantic similarities between Basque and Iberian wording and Iberian-Tartessian signary. Translation has come out  to be in the Hospitium Iberian striking (to Romans) custum/tradition which consisted of a warm invitation and reception to foreigners to be hosted in the  house. Also, it is now possible that Iberian-Tartessian rock scripts at Canary Islands may also be studied by official Iberian scholars and also the possible  early origins of Iberian–Tartessian signary on the Lineal Megalith Scripts found in rocks in Mediterranean and Atlantic EuroAfrica. The main conclusion  about “The Irulegi Hand” Iberian writing meaning is that it is within the frame of foreigners invitation to be hosted Iberian tradition or “Hospitium”.  However, work on the exact meaning is not yet finished.
Ethos and pathos in Nigerian popular music: The historical discourse on cultural evolution and Igbo participation from post-independence era till date
Authors: Osinigwe Chinedum N.
Published: June 2023

Popular music in Nigeria is kindled with a high spirit of cultural awakening and representation by different ethnic groups in their various musical practices. This paper examines the evolution of this musical culture- Igbo popular music in Nigeria from the post-independence era (1960) to the modern era (2020). This paper adopts the ethnographic method of gathering relevant data for evaluation and analysis. The outcome of the analysis reveals that the independence and post-independence era (1960-2000) were observed to have witnessed the highest level of creativity and ingenuity in musical outputs, through performances and marketing activities. On the other hand, the modern era (2000 till date), was adjudged to have witnessed high level of technological influx into the music industry. Despite this, musical creativity, lyrical depth, and dexterity in instrumentation by younger musicians were observed to be lacking. The activities of music producers, promoters and corporate organizations in promoting and advancing popular music in Nigeria dominated the better part of the modern era. It is thus recommended that much effort should be channeled into the documentation of popular music to raise the body of historic referral documents, which should be archived (digitally or physically) in cultural centres/ institutions in Nigeria, for easy access and referential purpose by researchers of allied disciplines.
A musicological discourse on selected popular songs used during the 2020 #End SARS protest in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Iliya Davou Bali
Published: June 2023

Criticism through music is an aspect of musicology that has come to stay in society. Nigerian pop artists have explored music criticism which has given rise to the numerous released songs criticizing the government, organizations, or individuals directly or indirectly. The situation of Nigeria’s economy and security has depleted over the past decade which has seen an increase in insecurity, corruption, and police brutality. In the light of this, musicians have over the years continuously lend their voice in these discussions by releasing thought provocative songs that are exhilarating to the consumers. These songs have proven to be relevant in the fight against corruption, insecurity and injustice in Nigeria as they try to correct or proffer solutions to the ills in society. In the wake of October 14 2020, a group of youth protested at the Lekki toll gate in Lagos state against police brutality to innocent citizens and some of these thought-provoking songs were the driving force behind their emotions. The philosophy behind the songs have educated Nigerian citizens on their fundamental rights which has become an eye opener for both the oppressor and the oppressed This study intends to discuss, and analyze the text of the songs used during this protest to ascertain if using the songs was justified. The methodology for collecting data for this research purpose is through observations and discographies.
Determinants of Private Investment in Nigeria
Authors: Ajudua Emmanuel Ifeanyi
Published: June 2023

This study investigates the determinants of private investment in Nigeria. Employing time series data for the period 1990 to 2020 gotten from the Central  Bank of Nigeria Statistical Bulletin and World Development Indicators, the Auto-Regressive Distributed Lag Model (ARDL) and the Error  Correction Mechanism estimation techniques were used to test private investment as the dependent variable and interest rate, money supply, credit to  the private sector, inflation rate, and regulatory quality index as the independent variables. The results showed that all variables were correctly signed,  and had statistical significance in explaining private investment in Nigeria during the period of study. The study, therefore, encouraged low interest rates  to support and enhance lending to the private sector needed for investments, a control of rising inflation rate, monetary authorities developing and  implementing policies to increase credit allocated to the private sector, creating and implementing sound policies and laws to support and encourage   private sector development as recommendations.
Exchange Rate and Manufacturing Sector Performance in Nigeria
Authors: Orji Martin Chukwuma , Ezeanyaeji C.I.
Published: June 2023

This study examined the impact of exchange rates on the performance of the manufacturing sector in Nigeria between 1990 and 2020. Using canonical  cointegrating regression (CCR) framework, the result obtained showed that exchange rate devaluation constrains manufacturing sector while exchange  rate fluctuation hampers manufacturing output. The study indicated that price increase leads to decline in the manufacturing sector, the study recommends among other things the need to formulate policies that align with the exchange rate to the actual needs of the manufacturing sector. The  study further suggests that change in exchange rate management strategy should be allowed to run a reasonable course of time. Jettisoning strategies  at will and on frequent basis has implication for exchange rate and obvious consequence for a sector that depends on foreign inputs
Foreign Aid and Poverty Reduction in West African Nations: Insights and the Need for Policy Re-Orientation
Authors: Ibrahim Abdulrahman
Published: June 2023

Poverty, a deteriorating healthcare system and insufficient educational standards are among the major macroeconomic problems facing African  countries. Foreign aid from Western countries to African countries has been hailed as one of the solutions to these problems. Thus, this study  investigated the impact of foreign aid on poverty using a panel data set of 14 West African nations. Foreign aid was disaggregated according to the  reason for which it was given while poverty was measured with three variables namely; poverty headcount, infant mortality, and literacy rate. Annual data  was sourced from the WDI (2022), WGI (2022) and OECD (2022), scoped 2008-2020. Using a two-step system GMM, the study found that total aid  insignificantly reduces poverty headcount in the presence of reduced corrupt practices. Furthermore, foreign aid allocated to health and education was found to lower infant mortality and improve literacy rates, respectively; however, these effects were only significant in the condition of reduced corrupt  practices. The study thus concludes that foreign aid works better when corrupt practices are reduced, and it recommends that policymakers in west- African countries should consider corruption control policies so that aid allocation is properly managed to improve its impact on poverty headcount,  infant mortality, and literacy rate.
Determinants of Financial Depth: A Case Study of Mortgage and Microfinance Banks in Nigeria
Authors: Mustapha Rafiu Ayobanji , Waheed Ismail Kayode , Abdullateef Ismaila
Published: June 2023

Financial depth is an important components of financial development for which determinants have been examined by a number of extant studies, using  different kinds of financial depth indicators. This study aims at analyzing the factors that determine financial depth using the assets of mortgage and  microfinance banks as indicators of financial depth. The study employs data that span from 1992 to 2021, using Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL)  model. It is found in the study that the policy of conversion of community banks to microfinance banks and the introduction of mortgage warehouse  fund have positive effects on microfinance and mortgage banks’ assets. Also, it is found that literacy rate has negative effect only on the microfinance  bank assets. Thus, this study recommends further deepening of the various segments of financial system, policy makers should strengthen the existing  policies and create the new similar policies and reforms with respect to each indicator of financial depth.
Activity concentration of natural radionuclides and transfer factors from soil to vegetable in parts of South South Nigeria
Authors: Benjamin E. U. , Essiett A. A. , Bede M. C. , Atat J. G. , Essien I. E. , Ejoh E. F.
Published: June 2023

Naturally occurring radionuclide materials are known to exist in soils and is transferred into vegetables and eventually gets into food chain. This work was aimed at determining the activity concentration of these radionuclides in soils and vegetable (fluted pumpkin) and the internal exposure due to the consumption of these materials in the vegetable in parts of South South Nigeria particularly Etim Ekpo Local Government area. The activity concentrations of twenty (20) soil samples and 20 vegetable samples from the farmlands were determined using gamma spectrometry. The activity concentration for 40K ,232Th and 238U from the soil samples ranged from 6.69±0.35 (Bqkg-1) to 168.19 ±8.82 (Bqkg-1) ,0.23 ±0.01 (Bqkg-1) to 5.91 ±0.35 (Bqkg-1) and BDL to 21.53±2.5 (Bqkg-1) respectively. The activity concentration of 40K, 232Th and 238U in the vegetable ranged from (584.23±27.71) Bqkg-1 to (958.67±48.46) Bqkg-1, from (1.84±0.11) Bqkg-1 to (9.72 ±0.56) and from (BDL) to (38.34±3.74) Bqkg-1 respectively. Transfer factors obtained ranged between 12.07±4.7 to 35.35 ±27.9 for 40K, 1.80±0.125 to 5.76 ± 4.31 for 232Th and BDL to 21.05 for 238U. Effective ingestion dose due to the consumption of vegetable from the study area obtained as 0.0021mSvy-1. This value is less than the 0.29mSvy-1 recommended dose limit for the general public; therefore, the consumption of this vegetable could not cause a radiological health effect on its consumers. However negligible or low risk could be minimised when the vegetable is washed and cooked before being consumed. Hence, the results obtained in this study indicate that the activity concentration of the farmland soils and crops represent no significant health risk on the farmers and the consumers of the vegetables.
Effects of acute exposure to chlorfenapyr on hepatic enzyme activities and serum lipid profile of African catfish, Clarias gariepinus (Burchell 1822)
Authors: Esenowo I.K. , Nelson A.U. , Ekpo N.D. , Chukwu M.N. , Akpan A.U. , Ugwumba A.A.A. , Ugwumba A.O. , Alimba C.G. , Effiong M.U. , Udoidung N.I. , Ukpong N.C. , Ogidiaka E. , Adeyemi-Ale O. A. , Oboho D.E.
Published: June 2023

The effects of acute exposure to chlorfenapyr on hepatic enzymes and lipid profile of Clarias gariepinus juveniles were investigated following standard protocols. Test organisms were exposed to chlorfenapyr concentrations of 5, 7, 9, 11 and 15 mgL-1 for 96 hr exposure period. After exposure, peripheral blood was collected through the caudal vein into plain sterilised tubes and allowed stand for 1 h for clot to form. The clotted blood was then centrifuged at 3000 rpm for 10 min and the serum obtained was used for all the biochemical assay. Cross-sections of the gills were examined for histological aberrations. Results showed significant increase in enzymatic activities of Aspartate amino transferases (AST), Alanine amino transferases (ALT) and Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (p< 0.05) when compared with control. Lipid profile results showed significant (p<0.05) increase in Total cholesterol (TC) and Low- density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-cholesterol) in all treated groups when compared with the control. Significant (p<0.05) reduction in high density lipoprotein- cholesterol (HDL-cholesterol) and triacylglycerides in all treated groups compared to the control was also recorded. Such alterations in biochemical parameters did not show any relationship with gills histology as the cross-section of the gills provided no evidence of aberrations. The results suggest that exposure to acute concentrations of chlorfenapyr can alter liver enzyme activities and serum lipid profile initiating a jump in the energy requirement of the exposed organism.
Amino acids, fatty acids and mineral elements composition of Roystonea regia and Ptychosperma macarthurii palm kernels
Authors: Essien E.E. , Antia B.S. , David E.M. , Solomon A.U.
Published: June 2023

Roystonea regia and Ptychosperma macarthurii are exotic palm species widely grown in Nigeria as ornamentals. The kernels of R. regia and P. macarthurii were subjected to amino acids, fatty acids, and mineral elements analyses in this study. Glutamic acid (13. 64 and 14.00 g/100 g), aspartic acid (9.72 and 9.50 g/100 g), arginine (8.68 and 7.49 g/100 g), and leucine (7.23 and 7.98 g/100 g) were the dominant amino acids in R. regia and P. macarthurii seeds. The percentage yields of kernel oils were 13.9 and 1.7% for R. regia and P. macarthurii, respectively. Gas chromatograph facilitated the identification of thirteen fatty acids, mainly comprised of oleic acid (25.19 and 35.64%), linoleic acid (57.88 and 45.60%), and palmitic acid (9.6 and 10.03%) in R. regia and P. macarthurii, respectively. The analysis also revealed the high unsaturated nature of fixed oils of R. regia (83.63%) and P. macarthurii kernels (81.66%). Calcuim, copper, iron, zinc, magnesium, manganese, sodium, and potassium were also detected in the kernels; majorly, calcium (71.5 mg/L) and magnesium (23.1 mg/L) in P. macarthurii kernels, whereas sodium (24.6 ppm) and potassium levels (50.1 ppm) were higher in R. regia kernels. These results reveal the high amino acids, fatty acids, and mineral elements content of R. regia and P. macarthurii kernels. These unexploited palm fruits could be properly utilized as animal feed, edible oil, or for other industrial purposes with the knowledge of its nutritional value and fixed oil content.