bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Common lands, landscape management and rural development: a case study in a mountain village in northwest Portugal
Authors: Nogueira Joana , Araújo José Pedro , Mamede Alonso Joaquim , Simões Sara
Published: October 2023

Sustainable landscape management is a key aspect for the development of mountain areas, especially where communities historically held common lands. Mountains face depopulation and abandonment, and transition to multifunctional landscapes emerges as an opportunity. We present a village case study (NW Portugal) focusing on people’s perceptions and practices around the common land. Results confirm the common plays a central role in local identity, being perceived as shared heritage with potential to provide multiple benefits. Traditional uses and governance practices are prevalent, revealing inertia in adapting to new users and goals. Public support targeting common land management skills would facilitate these transitions, as well as to overcome lasting effects of former authoritarian regime.
Common lands as a system of joint management to contribute to community resilience? Case from Slovakia
Authors: Palšová Lucia , Machničová Zina
Published: October 2023

The traditional form of land management in Slovakia was represented by common lands and regulated by the legal form of urbariates or composite sorates, later reintroduced in the form of land associations. The aim of the article is to evaluate the transformation processes of the common lands and identify its contribution to community resilience against land conflicts by interviews realized among selected land associations. The results of the research point to the lack of motivation of owners of land associations to efficiently and sustainably use common land, which mostly becomes objects of rent with the view of quick profit. At the conclusion, we propose a set of measures that we recommend the state to apply in order to unify and streamline the activities of land associations in Slovakia.
Commons and their contribution to sustaining Slovenian cultural landscapes
Authors: Šmid Hribar Mateja , Urbanc Mimi , Zorn Matija
Published: October 2023

The main challenge of cultural landscapes is how to manage them, and the concept of commons through collective actions can help in this regard. Based on a questionnaire, 21 collective actions related to cultural landscapes in Slovenia were examined using descriptive statistics. Results show that 1) traditional and transforming commons deal with forests and pastures, whereas new ones are more diverse regarding land use but in significantly smaller areas; 2) new commons indicate possible future mechanism, but they do not (yet) have an impact on cultural landscapes; 3) the main benefits of commons refer to social aspects followed by non-material and regulative benefits; material benefits are ranked last; and 4) new collective actions, especially in urban areas, have difficulties obtaining lands which threatens their existence.
Commons, collective actions and landscapes: A short introduction
Authors: Urbanc Mimi , Hori Keiko , Šmid Hribar Mateja
Published: October 2023

In the face of worldwide population growth, increasingly intensive agriculture, depopulation of marginal and less favoured areas, and growing rural-urban migration, two contrasting trends are becoming more pronounced: land abandonment on one hand and intensification of agricultural land on the other hand. Considering the complexity of mentioned issues, which result in landscape impoverishment, biodiversity loss, and a decline in crucial ecosystem services, it is essential to prioritise sustainable governance and management of landscapes and natural resources. Alternative approaches are needed to address these challenges. In this special issue, we focus on the potentials of commons and collective actions in sustaining landscape management and natural resource governance. The term "commons" refers to the way communities collectively manage local resources. Collective action refers to the coordinated efforts and cooperation of a community.
Quels appuis pour qui veut contribuer à l’histoire du travail social ?
Authors: Chauvière Michel
Published: October 2023

Après avoir développé pourquoi et comment lui-même, sociologue du « social en actes », est parfois devenu historien ou plus exactement socio-historien, l’auteur nous présente les tenants et aboutissants de deux programmes de recherche conduits dans des conditions problématiques et méthodologiques contrastées. Il s’agit, d’une part, de travaux sur la naissance du secteur de l’enfance inadaptée et de la profession d’éducateur spécialisé, assez classiques dans leur conception, et, d’autre part, d’une investigation longuement partagée et même publiée avec les acteurs concernés, qui visait l’histoire de certaines associations familiales issues de la matrice du catholicisme social. Il conclut en soulignant pourquoi il faut régulièrement faire évoluer sa problématisation et en rappelant la nécessité de conditions institutionnelles et professionnelles favorables, sans quoi la recherche glisserait vers le simple échange des points de vue.
L’eugénisme solidariste de la puériculture d’Adolphe Pinard
Authors: Secco François
Published: October 2023

Cette publication examine les rapports entre la puériculture d’Adolphe Pinard et le solidarisme théorisé par Léon Bourgeois. Dans une tentative de constitution d’une forme d’eugénisme pensée comme progressiste et humaniste, Pinard noue l’eugénisme qu’il développe avec les impératifs de justice sociale promus par ce dernier. En découle, d’une part, la subordination de la puériculture à des principes d’égalité et à des droits fondamentaux pour tous les individus et, d’autre part, l’idée d’une nécessaire amélioration biologique de la population comme condition de l’extension de la liberté et de la solidarité. La première partie de l’article établit un rapprochement entre les deux auteurs, sur la base du paradigme néo-lamarckien sur lequel ils s’appuient, et détaille les modalités et la finalité du solidarisme. Une deuxième partie examine la nature de l’assimilation de la « religion de l’humanité » à la solidarité, qui entraîne à la fois la défense d’un amour à l’échelle collective, mais également la sacralité de la vie des « anormaux ». Une dernière partie décrit les leviers d’inspiration solidariste envisagés par Pinard pour prévenir la dégénérescence de l’humanité. Ils reposent sur une redéfinition des critères d’évaluation de la valeur de la fonction sociale de l’individu et s’exercent sur, d’une part, la famille et, d’autre part, les femmes eugéniques.
Relationship between the rainfall index for Southern Brazil and the indexes of the Tropical Pacific and the Tropical Atlantic Oceans
Authors: Siqueira Beatriz , Nery Jonas Teixeira , Carfan Ana Cláudia
Published: October 2023

The proposed study verified the possible influences of sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies in the equatorial Pacific and the tropical Atlantic on the rainfall in the southern region of Brazil. The rainfall stations used have monthly data for the period from 1977 to 2015 and are distributed throughout that region. Monthly TSM anomalies in the Niño 3.4 and Niño 1 + 2 areas, the Southern Oscillation Index and the Monthly Tropical South Atlantic Temperature Index were also used, from the database provided by the Climate Prediction Centre. The results show the association of precipitation in the South region with variations in sea surface temperature in the Tropical Pacific Ocean and, to a lesser extent, with sea surface temperatures in the Tropical South Atlantic Ocean.
Using an EeonTex Conductive Stretchable Elastic Fibre for Hand Action Recognition
Authors: Abdul-Hussain Gasak , Holderbaum William , Theodoridis Theodoros , Wei Guowu , El-Hussieny Haitham , Ferriz-Papi Juan Antonio
Published: October 2023

Tactile sensors in wearable devices have gained attention for their potential applications in enhancing amenability, generation, and functionality for the human body, including sensing and control. This study elaborates on the design of a tactile sensor consisting of EeonTex conductive stretchable elastic fibre, which possesses a bi-directionally stretchable elastic fibre, and was formulated by coating nylon/spandex with a long-lasting conductive formulation. This fabric has proven to be beneficial for use in various different e-tactile applications. The authors systematically investigated the performance of the tactile sensor via 2 different manipulative gestures on a part of the upper limb of two different subjects. The tactile sensor was observed to change its electrical resistance when mechanical force was applied to its surface. It was also noted to be lightweight, inexpensive, stretchable, flexible, and easy to design and set up. This type of tactile sensor possesses the ability to recognise the intention of muscle movement and measure the muscle activities from the forearm. The prime objective of this study was to use such sensors as sleeves mounted on the forearms of the upper limbs. The reasoning behind this was that when muscle contract, they change their shape which in turn results in mechanical pressure being applied to the sensor. Experimental results showed that the tactile sensor’s feedback successfully detected open/closed hands when the sensor sleeve was worn on the forearm region.
Experimental Study on the Use of Selected Rejuvenators, Crumb Rubber and Plastic Waste for Asphalt Mixture Containing 50% Reclaimed Asphalt
Authors: Belhaj Majda , Vackova Pavla , Valentin Jan
Published: October 2023

Nowadays’ sustainability-driven systems require a product to be environmentally beneficial as well as cost-effective whilst maintaining its great performance. In these circumstances, the pavement industry has emphasized its concern over waste production, reduced materials costs and conserving resources. Henhce, the seeking for new engineering solutions to move toward more sustainable, eco-friendly, and economically beneficial management. In this context, the use of RA (Reclaimed Asphalt) in the new asphalt mixtures has generated well-defined environmental benefits especially in terms of the reduction in raw-material consumption and possibility to upcycle the waste derived from existing old pavements. This study aims to evaluate the efficiency of the addition of selected rejuvenators which help to restore some of the properties of aged bituminous binder in RA, crumb rubber and plastic (LDPE) waste on the performance of asphalt mixture designed with elevated RA content (50 %). Mechanical performance was evaluated by means of laboratory investigations for typical characteristics dedicated to durability, stiffness and cracking potential. The results showed that a proper dosage of a suitable type of rejuvenation agent as well as the crumb rubber and plastic waste can enhance the overall durability of the elevated RA content asphalt mixtures.
A systematic review of the factors influencing retention or turnover intention among emergency personnel in epidemics
Authors: Rahimi Mohammad Kazem , Heidari Edris , Montazeralfaraj Razieh , Farajkhoda Tahmineh
Published: October 2023

To maintain the performance of emergency personnel who are at disproportionate risk of infection on the front lines of outbreaks, it is beneficial to understand the factors that promote their willingness to stay or leave their job. This study aims to identify key factors related to emergency workers' willingness to retain. This study identifies key factors related to emergency workers' willingness to be retained or turnover intention during infectious disease pandemics. Following the PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review of the literature was conducted. To obtain the results, three databases, Scopus, PubMed Web of Science, and Google Scholar, were searched for English-speaking studies up to March 2022 that met the established inclusion criteria and were of high quality. Given the heterogeneity of the results, a qualitative synthesis of the results was also undertaken. A narrative synthesis was performed on 34 studies of high and medium quality. The studies examined different and multifaceted factors in three categories: retention, turnover decision, and factors that mediate between turnover intention and retention. The retention of frontline emergency workers during an epidemic is dependent on essential factors such as job satisfaction, organizational commitment, managerial support, psychological well-being, and resilience.
Identifying the risk factors of schistosomiasis in Indonesia
Authors: Christine Christine , Sunuh Herlina Susanto , Politon Fellysca Veronica Margareth , Doda Diana Vanda Daturara
Published: October 2023

In Poso, Central Sulawesi, schistosomiasis prevalence has shown fluctuations, particularly in the Napu Highland, home to around 17,000 people, where there is a 0.15% risk of Schistosomiasis. This study aimed to analyze the risk factors associated with schistosomiasis in the Napu Highland. Conducted from April to June 2022, this case-control study included residents of schistosomiasis-affected villages. The sample consisted of 148 individuals (37 cases and 111 controls). Cases were residents aged over 2 years who had tested positive for schistosomiasis in a 2021 fecal survey conducted by the Poso District Health Office. Controls were selected as the nearest neighbors of the cases. Data on education, knowledge, occupation, sanitation practices, water sources, activities near water bodies, use of protective equipment, and livestock raising were collected through questionnaires. Statistical analysis involved the Chi-square test with α=5%. The results indicated that education (p=0.018; OR=3.147) and knowledge (p=0.056; OR=2.233) were associated with schistosomiasis. Individuals with lower education levels were 3.147 times more likely to contract the disease, while those with limited knowledge were 2.233 times more at risk. In conclusion, improving schistosomiasis prevention in the Napu Highland should involve enhancing knowledge, attitudes, and practices through health promotion initiatives that engage educators and community leaders.
Knowledge and awareness of human mpox infection among healthcare workers
Authors: Ajayi Paul Oladapo , Esan Deborah Tolulope , Ipinnimo Tope Michael , Olanrewaju Moronkeji Temitope , Solomon Oluremi Olayinka , Atanda-Owoeye Olajumoke Oyewumi
Published: October 2023

Objective:

To identify the knowledge and awareness level of human mpox viral infection among healthcare workers in southwestern Nigeria.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted in Ekiti State, southwest Nigeria among 316 healthcare workers that were selected through a systematic random sampling. Data were collected with the aid of a semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire. The Chi-square test and binary logistic regression were used to find the association between the independent and dependent variables. The significance level was set at P-value <0.05.

Results:

Two hundred and twenty-two (70.3%) of the respondents were aged ≤40 years, mean age (36±9) years, 189 (59.8%) were female, 306 (96.8%) were Christians, and 203 (64.2%) were married. Three hundred and fourteen (99.4%) of the respondents were aware of mpox infection. Main sources of information about mpox were medical education (44.0%), radio/television (32.0%) and newspaper (21.0%). However, among those aware of the disease, 209 (67.0%) demonstrated poor knowledge levels. Longer than 5 years' experience of medical practice was the only significant predictor of higher knowledge level of the disease (OR 1.76, 95% CI 1.01-3.06; P=0.046).

Conclusions:

Despite the high awareness level of mpox infection among healthcare workers, there still exists a huge knowledge gap. It is recommended that targeted intervention could be directed towards continuous medical education and simulation exercises on re-emerging infectious diseases like mpox to improve the knowledge of the healthcare workers.
Long-term retroperitoneal lymph node dissection outcomes for nonseminomatous germ cell tumors with postchemotherapy retroperitoneal residual tumors, in a specialized hospital of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Buksh Omar , Khan Nouman , Alzahrani Hani , Khogeer Ahmad , Akram Rabea , Alakra’a Mahmoud , Alammari Adel , Junaid Islam
Published: October 2023

Background:

In men under the age of 35 years, testicular cancer is the most prevalent solid tumor. Additional treatment is necessary for many people with nonseminomatus germ cell tumors (NSGCTs). Whether in conjunction with chemotherapy or as a stand-alone procedure, retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) continues to play a critical role in the treatment of these patients. There is a lack of information in Saudi Arabian literature about the long-term oncologic outcome of NSGCT following RPLND surgery.

Objective:

The study’s goals were to identify clinical and pathological characteristics related with long-term survival following NSGCT for RPLND, as well as to assess the surgical and oncological results of this treatment.

Methodology:

From January 2010 to April 2021, nine adults who had had orchidectomy for testicular cancer and RPLND following treatment for the evidence of persistent NSGCT disease at our hospital were included in this retrospective research. Demographic information, laboratory results, radiological findings, staging, chemotherapy and radiotherapy status, surgical procedure details, perioperative problems, morbidity, and mortality were all acquired from patients’ medical records. Rates of disease return and overall survival. SPSS was utilized for the data analysis.

Results:

During the study period, nine patients with NSGCT underwent RPLND, with a mean age of 28 years (5.4: standard deviation). The most common diseases were yolk sac and embryonal cell cancer. In addition to receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy, all patients had a Clavien–Dindo score of 2, and there was no mortality after RPLND. Overall median survival time was 26, and disease-free survival time was 21 months. Overall survival at 1 year was 86%, and at 5 years, it was 66%. The prognosis of embryonal cell cancer was more optimistic than that of a tumor of the yolk sac.

Conclusion:

We have shown that RPLND has an extremely low rate of morbidity and postoperative problems. In terms of oncology, it results in adequate overall and disease-free survival rates, with low morbidity and postoperative complications.
Early serum sodium changes in elderly patients with nocturia receiving desmopressin
Authors: Abuelnaga Mohamed , Mourad Sherif , Satour Ashraf , Mostafa Diaaeldin
Published: October 2023

Purpose:

The purpose of the study is to identify early serum sodium changes that could happen in elderly patients with nocturia receiving desmopressin.

Materials and Methods:

This study was conducted on 28 patients complaining of nocturia and receiving desmopressin. Inclusion criteria were patients diagnosed as having nocturia (at least one or more voids per night) aging ≥55 years with normal baseline serum sodium (135–150 mEq/L). All patients received desmopressin in the form of 60 μg at bedtime. Close follow-up was done for any adverse effects that may have occurred related to hyponatremia and serum sodium was reevaluated for all patients at 3, 7, 14, and 30 days from the start of the treatment.

Results:

Desmopressin resulted in a significant decrease in nocturnal urine volume, a decrease in nocturnal polyuria index, number of night voids and the time to first void was delayed. Furthermore, statistically insignificant sodium drop in males and statistically significant sodium drop in females were noted with infrequent side effects, for example, headache (10.7%) and hyponatremia (7.14%) that started after treatment by 1 week.

Conclusion:

Hyponatremia can be avoided using the minimal effective dose of desmopressin. To receive desmopressin in elderly patients sodium baseline level must be ≥135 mmol/L. Close sodium monitoring has to be done at 7, 14, and 30 days from start of treatment for high-risk patients (especially elderly) or patients receiving other medication causing hyponatremia.
Competence of Health Care Providers on Clinical Management of Myocardial Infarction in Selected Hospitals with Intensive Care Unit Western Kenya
Authors: Nyatogo Rukia Achieng , Okoth John M. , Sum Tecla
Published: October 2023

Background: The capacity of healthcare providers to execute an accurate initial assessment is crucial for recognizing the urgency and  treatment needs of patients and for creating baseline data from which any changes in patient status may be monitored. In Western  Kenya, there is little evidence of studies carried out on the competence of healthcare providers in the clinical management of myocardial  infractions thus this study's main aim was to investigate the competence of healthcare providers in the clinical management of  myocardial infractions.

Material and Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study design was used. The study population comprised a total sample of 114  healthcare providers. A structured questionnaire and observation checklist were used. Participants will be picked using a systematic  sampling method for those who meet the inclusion criteria. The sample size was determined using Fisher's Method. The data collected  was compiled using SPSS software version 22. The data was analyzed through the application of descriptive statistical analysis.

Findings:  Variables that positively influenced the competency are specialization (AOR: 15.1; 95% CI: 2.6 – 87.3; p = 0.002), knowledge (AOR: 5.4; 95%  CI: 1.1 – 26.5; p = 0.04) and having a protocol in patient's file (AOR: 10.2; 95% CI: 0.9 – 112.6.5; p = 0.06), although the latter was marginally statistically significant. Healthcare provider's qualification (KRCHN) (AOR: 0.04; 95% CI: 0.008 – 0.219; p = 0.002), filling of the protocol  (AOR: 0.03; 95% CI: 0.001 – 0.585; p = 0.02) and use of high dose heparin as opposed to the use of other thrombolytic like Metalase (AOR: 0.1; 95% CI: 0.01 – 0.63; p = 0.02) were all negatively associated with healthcare providers competency.

Recommendation/Conclusion:  The study recommends the need of specialized training and knowledge advancement for health care providers on critical care nursing.  This study found marginal statistical significance between the factors that influence competence among healthcare providers on clinical  management of myocardial infraction.
Prevalence and Pattern of Musculoskeletal Disorder in Panteka Mechanic Village, Kaduna
Authors: Sambo A.Y. , Sahabo M.M. , Onuzulike C.O.
Published: October 2023

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are illnesses that make working people disabled and generate significant economic loss worldwide.  Automobile mechanics are at risk of injury at the onset of MSDs due to repetitive tasks, uncomfortable posture, and heavy lifting of  objects. The frequency and pattern of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among auto mechanics in Panteka Village, Kaduna State,  are investigated in this study. Using a version of the standard Nordic Musculoskeletal questionnaire, a quatitative method was used to  gather data on the prevalence pattern of musculoskeletal illnesses at Panteka Village. To analyze the data obtained, purposive sampling  method was employed. The study found that there was a high prevalence of MSDs among auto mechanics in Panteka village, with rates  of 90% (Neck), 92.3% (shoulder), 56.4% (knee) and over 70% prevalence of MSD for lower and upper back. The results of relationship  between age of respondents, years spent as a mechanic and prevalence of the musculoskeletal disorders showed no significant  relationship. However, there was a significant relationship between the respondent's section of mechanic activities ie the nature of their  job and MSD. These are primarily the result of poor ergonomics and insufficient rest periods at their workshop. Also, manual handling of  heavy loads, repetitive tasks and force exertion were the identified factors. Ergonomic and MSD awareness among workers should be  increased through training. In addition, govermnents should investigate more in other to reduce or eliminate risk factors leading to  musculoskeletal disorders. Members of the Panteka village committee can use the research's findings to enhance the working  environment for mechanics. Therefore, Mechanics will need to be educated more on risk factors associated with MSDs.
Sensitivity Analysis of Housing Affordability under Public Private Partnership (PPP) Scheme in Niger State
Authors: Musa-Haddary Y.G , Oke A.A. , Abdullahi M.S.
Published: October 2023

The provision of affordable housing has been a concern in developed and developing world because of its role in man’s welfare and  productivity. This study aimed to carry out a sensitivity analysis of the affordability of a Public Private Partnership (PPP) housing scheme  in Niger State. The study set out to establish what can be done to make repayment for such housing affordable for all categories of  allotees. Sensitivity analysis was applied to building cost, repayment period and interest rate. Data used for the analysis were sourced  through the collection of archival data and carrying out of a questionnaire survey. The random sampling technique was employed in  administering the questionnaire to a sample of 187 beneficiaries. Against standard affordability criteria that housing should consume not  more than 30 percent of gross household income, the results revealed that only civil servant allotees on Salary Grade Levels 10 - 16  can afford monthly repayments of ₦10, 000.00 for 2-bedroom housing costing ₦1,900,000.00. The application of sensitivity analysis  enabled the study to recommend modifications to the PPP housing scheme that will allow all workers on Salary Grade Levels 01 - 16 to  afford a 2-bedroom house at a selling price of ₦1,200,000M, mortgage interest of 3 percent and a repayment period of 25 years.
Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene in Parts of Lagos Metropolis
Authors: Akoteyon Isaiah Sewanu , Otusanya Olayinka
Published: October 2023

The study examined water, sanitation, and hygiene conditions in Lagos State University, Yaba College ofTechnology, and Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education tertiary institutions in parts of the Lagos metropolisusing field observation and social survey. A total of 220 structured questionnaires were administered to studentsand staff across the institutions using a random sampling technique. Descriptive statistics and ANOVA wasemployed to analyse the data. The result shows that approximately 54% of the respondents are acquainted withthe WaSH program. The significant water supply sources include borehole and public piped borne waterrepresenting 86 and 13%, respectively. About 96, 94, 91 and 37% of the respondents gained access to wastebins, sanitation, water, and handwashing materials. The ANOVA shows a significant difference between thedependent variables across the institutions. At the same time, the post-hoc tests confirm a significant differencebetween YABATECH and the other two institutions at p< 0.05 level of significance. The study provides baselineinformation on WaSH conditions for effective planning and managing WaSH facilities by policymakers inNigerian public tertiary institutions. The study concluded that safe water supply and access to handwashingfacilities is low in the area. YABATECH has the worst WaSH condition. We recommended investment in WaSHservices in tertiary institutions with greater priority at YABATECH, considering its poor WaSH amenities.
Assessing the Determinants of Choice of Airline among Domestic Air Travelers in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Aiyegbajeje Femi Ola
Published: October 2023

The patronage or choice of an airline is determined by the airline’s ability to offer numerous service qualities toher passengers’ satisfaction. Several studies have identified numerous factors determining passengers’ choice ofairlines. However, there is still a paucity of information on the degree of determinants of these determiningfactors. This paper, therefore, examines the degree of influence these determinant factors have on domestic airpassengers’ choice of an airline in Lagos, Nigeria. Primary data were adopted using the structured questionnairethat focused on the demographic profiles of domestic air passengers, ranking of airline service qualities and thedeterminants of their choice of airline. The primary data were collected through 352 structured questionnaireforms administered by systematic random sampling method to 400 domestic air passengers at both the departureand arrival lounge of the domestic wing of Murtala Muhammed Terminal 2 (MM2) in Lagos. The resultsrevealed that Air Peace and Max Air ranked first and second respectively among the top ten operational airlinesin terms of service quality preference. Furthermore, the results of the hypothesis indicated that the passengerairfare and route availability influence domestic passengers’ choice of airline. The stepwise multiple regressionresults further indicated that passenger airfare exerted more influence at 89.2% (F=27889.785, p<0.05). Thestudy will help the airline’s marketing unit to identify the airline service quality they need to improve on, and itwill help policymakers not only in Nigeria but also all over the sub-continent to think about long-term strategiestowards the provision of sustainable airline services.
The role of traditional institutions in conflict resolution among Okija people
Authors: Ojo-Ebenezer Osayekemwen
Published: October 2023

Similar to the concept of culture, resolving disagreements is also a way of life. Prior to colonial rule and the establishment of a regular court system in Nigeria, Okija had a method of dispute settlement that was deemed simple, inexpensive, and amicable. Therefore, the specific objective of the study was to identify traditional institutions for conflict resolution in the Okija peace processes among Okija people in Ihiala local government area of Anambra state. Purposive sampling method was adopted to select four community leaders or chiefs from each of the four communities that covered the study location, making a total sample size of 16 for the study. The selection of the leaders was based on their expertise in Okija's traditional dispute resolution procedures and institutions. A qualitative technique, the in-depth interview, was used in the study to garner the primary data. The study found that the traditional institutions for conflict resolution included the Ezi (the family), Okpara (elders), Umunna (men who are born into the clan), Umuada (women who were born into a clan), or NdiInyom (married women), Amala (the council of elders), Traditional Religious Approach (OgwugwuAkpu, OgwugwuMiri, Urashi, Akpunama, Osuajana), Secret societies, or the Masquerades. This study recommended the greater inclusion of these traditional institutions in conflict resolution among people instead, as they are closer to people at the grassroots than the formal institutions for conflict resolution in the contemporary period.
Effects of proximity dimensions on inter-firm cooperation among MSMEs in some selected leather industrial clusters in Nigeria
Authors: Asekunowo Victor O. , Ayedun Taiwo A. , Iriobe O.C.
Published: October 2023

This study was carried out to investigate the effects of proximity on inter-firm cooperation in some selected leather industrial clusters in Abia, Lagos and Kano states in Nigeria. MSMEs in these states' leather manufacturing clusters were specifically chosen for the study using a two-stage sampling approach. In the cities of Lagos, Aba, and Kano, 412 MSMEs' owners and managers were chosen using the snowballing sampling technique approach. The study's sample size was this. These owners and managers completed a questionnaire to provide information on the MSMEs. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data collected. The regression results showed that all the proximity dimension variables had significant and positive relationships with marketing cooperation. Also, institutional proximity (INP) and organisational proximity (ORG) had significant and positive relationships with R&D cooperation and only social proximity (SOP) had a positive and significant relationship with innovation cooperation. However, the X2 test of significance showed that the pooled proximity dimensions and cooperation variables had the following significant and positive relationships with the cooperation variables: marketing cooperation [X2 (16,412) = 332.412, p = .000], R & D cooperation [X2 (8, 412) = 26.909, p = .001] and innovation cooperation [X2 (12, 412) = 41.342, p =.000]. Owing to these relationships, 9 gains out of 13 potential gains accrued to the MSMEs which may aid in the industrial growth and development of the country. These gains are: rapid innovation, new business formation, business growth, access to new markets and greater efficiency. The study concluded that due to their proximal locations, MSMEs in the selected Nigerian leather industrial clusters cooperated with one another and due to this, were able to appropriate some industrial growth and development-promoting gains to themselves. However, there were some other potential gains such as mutual learning, mutual stimulation of innovativeness, cost reduction and group purchasing that were not appropriated. The study therefore recommends that Nigerian governments, at all tiers, should formulate policies that encourage cluster formation and cooperation among the proximally located MSMEs to enable them appropriate all the potential gains derivable from cooperation.
Regression analysis of the effect of public debt on the economic growth of Nigeria.
Authors: Eze Onyekachi Richard , Ogiji Festus O. , Igwe Solomon , Eze Nkechi Gift
Published: October 2023

This study focused on the effect of public debt on the economic growth of Nigeria from 2004-2021. The specific objective of the study was to ascertain the regression analysis of the effect of public debt on economic growth in Nigeria and other objectives are to: investigate the impact of external debt on the economic growth of Nigeria, determine the impact of foreign exchange rate on the economic growth of Nigeria and examine the impact of interest rate on the economic growth of Nigeria. The researcher adopted ex-post facto research design and regression analysis was used in analyzing the time series data generated through secondary data source. The study found that public debt has a negative effect on economic growth, exchange rate has positive relationship with economic growth in Nigeria and interest rate does not have significant effect on the economic growth of Nigeria. Based on the findings the study concludes that public debts are necessary to meet shortfall internal resources, and stimulate the economy. Based on the finding the study recommends as follows: government should aggressively pursue the process of diversification of the economy. This will result in buoyant and robust economy which will reduce the public debt.
Corruption under a microscope, a Ghana perspective
Authors: Ibn Saeed, A. S. , Wahaga E. , Yankey G.
Published: October 2023

Corruption is a global issue and a challenge in Ghana, however in the last few years, it has taken over aspects of the Ghanaian society, from government, public and private sectors, and creating a negative impact on all governance arrangement and performance in Ghana. The prevalence of corruption points to a humongous dishonesty in the Ghanaian society. Some causes of corruption in Ghana are political monetization, low level of literacy, non-enforcement of relevant laws, bureaucracy, and fusing of duties among the arms of governance. Corruption retards economic development and growth, moral degeneration, reduces confidence in government Institutions, Product and poor execution of government projects and contracts. “Perceived” corruption by religious leaders has adversely affected people’s faith in God. Progressively, successive governments have tried to tackle corruption by the introduction of legislation; attempted selective prosecution of persons culpable of corruption; digitizing services, to reduce the interface of humans in service delivery mechanism, but all these have had limited success due to political interferences and selectivity of application. The watchful eyes of Civil and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and world bodies such as the World Bank, United Nations, and Transparency International have all helped in minimizing the impact of corruption to various degrees. The decision to fight corruption is an exceptional one justified by exceptional circumstances. Ghanaians need to make disciplined efforts to produce fundamental decisions that shape and guide how and what they do to fight corruption. Reports from government, NGOs and international bodies were searched and selected according to their relevance to the subject under study and analysed to write this paper. The objective of this paper is therefore to make an exhaustive analysis of corruption in Ghana.
Human Development Index: A regional perspective
Authors: Uddin Godwin E.
Published: October 2023

Taking development as a multi-dimensional concept invariably justifies the argument of adopting the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Human Development Index (HDI) as a measure of development. Thus, being an attempt thereof to undertake a cross-country comparative study of the trend of Human Development progress in selected countries between 1990 and 2013 and following the UNDP regional classification, a total of 35 countries inclusive of the industrial countries were evaluated. Factors such as continual social unrest, engendered socio-political crisis, adverse income distribution, high depth of food deficit, lack of education and health services amidst others were evident as limiting factors for human development. However based on the progress made in selected economies, it is recommended that priority attention especially by Developing Economies be given to enabling necessary institutional and structural changes in view to foster human development, synonymous to economic development.
Common occupational machinery hazards in mechanical engineering workshops in TVET institutions in Nairobi metropolitan, Kenya
Authors: Ronoh Patrick Kipkurui , Mburu Charles M.
Published: October 2023

The metal fabrication sector involves a variety of processes, activities, products, and by-products. This involves various interventions such  as milling, turning, welding, drilling, and grinding. Firms in this sector use one or a combination of these interventions where machinery  is used, which can expose workers to machinery hazards if proper safety procedures are not observed. Occupational Safety and Health  (OSH) is vital in Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, especially in mechanical engineering programmes where  metal fabrication is practised. The objective of this study was to assess the awareness of occupational machinery hazards in mechanical  engineering workshops in TVET Institutions. The study adopted a descriptive research design and employed a structured questionnaire  for data collection. Purposive sampling was used to identify institutions participating in the study. SPSS version 25 was used to analyse  the data and present it in tables and graphs. Noise (90.4%) and vibration (71.9%) were reported as the most common occupational  hazards, respectively, in mechanical engineering workshops. Regarding workstations, the grinding section (39.4%) and milling section  (15.8%) were reported as experiencing high levels of noise. The study recommends that adequate control measures be put in place to  mitigate against these hazards.
Absorbent mixtures optimisation for COD and Ammonia Nitrogen reduction in stabilised leachate
Authors: Abubakar M. H. , Daud Z. , Abba H. A.
Published: October 2023

This paper describes the optimisation of mixed media for Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) and Ammonia Nitrogen (NH3-N) removal from stabilised leachate by feldspar (FE), zeolite (ZE), activated carbon (AC), and cockle shells (CS) mixtures using D-optimal mixture design. Linear equations characterised the optimal mixture. The optimum mitigation of COD and NH3-N in landfill leachate was favourable at 12.5 mg/L, 9.72 mg/L, 6 mg/L, and 11.79 mg/L of adsorbent mixed dosage for FE, ZE, AC, and CS, respectively, with the desirability value of 0.886. The predicted R-squared values for NH3-N (0.9839) and COD (0.8972) were in close agreement with the adjusted R-squared values of 0.9940 and 0.9900 for COD and NH3-N, respectively, which validates the obtained regression models. The Lack of Fit F-values of 0.6015 (COD) and 0.4565 (NH3-N) are insignificant, indicating that the models accurately predict the removal. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed that the predominant hydroxyl group consisted of –OH at spectra 3306.18 and 3338.74. The study also revealed that the D-optimal mixture design has extremely high application potential as it produces a good mixture design based on the remediation of contaminants from stabilised leachate.
Oil extraction from Treculia africana seeds: process conditions, kinetic and thermodynamic studies
Authors: Okwonna O. O. , Obuebite A. A. J. , Otaraku I. J.
Published: October 2023

The declining global supply and sources of vegetable oil consumed across different parts of the world have become a source of growing concern. Finding alternative sources demands concerted efforts and studies on other agricultural products not adequately utilized. This study investigates the extraction of oil from Treculia africana seeds using n-hexane as a solvent. The effect of heat pre-treatment of the seed samples on the process was also investigated using oven-drying and sun-drying methods, respectively. The pre-treatment process had no effect on the physicochemical properties of the extract except the maximum yields at 60 min obtained as 42.5 and 40.31%, respectively. Characterization of the extract using the physicochemical properties of the oil showed specific gravity 0.931, saponification value 624.4 mgNaOHg-1oil, acid value 2.57 mgKOHg-1oil, and iodine value 14.13mg100g-1 which indicates its suitability for consumption, soap making, production of pharmaceuticals and as a lubricant. The Kinetics of the process which was studied under different temperatures and time intervals indicate a first-order reaction. Several thermodynamic parameters were determined such as activation energy, enthalpy, and entropy. These physicochemical properties indicate that the extract is comparable to the vegetable oil obtained from other sources. The kinetics and thermodynamics studies indicate the spontaneity of the process showing that the energy required to break the solute-solvent/solvent-solvent interaction was more significant than that required to maintain the bonds between them thereby favouring the forward reaction and product formation.
Physio-mechanical assessment and process mapping of AlSi10mg/Cu material for automobile application
Authors: Olaniran O. , Adediran A. A. , Akinwande A.A. , Adesina O.S. , Mosadomi O.A.
Published: October 2023

In this study, copper (Cu) particles were used as a replacement for ceramic particles in an AlSi10Mg matrix to lessen the brittleness often associated with ceramic particles when used as fillers in aluminum matrix. AlSi10Mg was combined with 0, 2, 4, and 6% Cu, and microwave sintering was performed at 300, 450, and 600 °C. The composites produced were subjected to physical tests (porosity, density, shrinkage, and relative density), tensile tests (yield and ultimate strength, elastic modulus, and elongation), and microstructure test. Cu particles were observed to be dispersed at 2% and 4% sintering temperatures and clustered at 6% sintering temperatures, according to the microstructural images. The incorporation of 2% and 4% Cu decreased porosity, leading to increased yield, ultimate tensile strength, and elastic modulus respectively. It was noted that 6% Cu addition resulted in strength reduction owing to particle clusters. Sintering temperatures between 300 and 450 ℃ were favorable for all property investigated; nevertheless, temperatures above 600 °C were detrimental to property responses. The proposed process map revealed diverse response values for varying input combination parameters; hence, a Cu dosage of 4% at a sintering temperature of ≤ 450 °C is recommended.
Removal of heavy metals from domestic wastewater using Beneficiated Kaolin Clay, Silver Oxide and zinc Oxide nanocomposite
Authors: Ogundipe F.O. , Saidu M. , Abdulkareem A.S. , Busari A.O
Published: October 2023

This study describes the removal of total iron, cadmium, lead, copper, manganese, arsenic, mercury silver and zinc from domestic wastewater disposed of via sewers, using Beneficiated Kaolin Clay (BKC), BKC/Ag, BKC/ZnO and BKC/Ag/ZnO nanocomposite adsorbents produced by blending Silver Oxide (Ag) and Zinc Oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles with kaolin clay. High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscope (HRTEM) results showed that the produced adsorbents were polycrystalline in nature, while the interplanar spacing and average crystalline sizes are 1.775 – 4.712 nm and 26. 834 – 40.258 nm respectively, according to X-Ray Diffractometer (XRD) analysis. The Dispersive X – Ray Fluorescence (XRF) analysis indicated that SiO2/Al2O3 ratios for BKC/Ag, BKC/ZnO and BKC/Ag/ZnO nanocomposites adsorbents were 1.5170, 1.4818 and 1.5231 respectively. Brunauer – Emmett – Teller (BET) analysis showed that the desorption average pore sizes fell in the mesopore widths of 13.8994 – 16.9233 nm and surface areas of 1.0545 - 14.5126 m2.g-1. The removal efficiencies of the produced adsorbents followed this trend: BKC/Ag/ZnO > BKC/Ag > BKC/ZnO > BKC. These adsorbents were excellent in the removal of total iron, cadmium, lead, copper, manganese, arsenic, mercury silver and zinc pollutants from domestic wastewater, and hence, recommended for large scale production.
Mechanical characteristics and regression models of rice husk silica reinforced natural rubber composites
Authors: Ubi P. A. , Ademoh N. A. , Abdulrahman A. S. , Hassan A. B. , Dashe J. D. , Oyeyemi S. W. , Ngolemasango F.
Published: October 2023

Carbon black and silica fillers have been widely used as reinforcing fillers in tyres and engine mounts. However, both fillers are non-renewable and with REACH legislation in Europe, the USA and elsewhere, where some of these fillers are termed hazardous due to the presence of polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), there is a need to search for sustainable alternative fillers to wholly or partially replace carbon black as a filler. This research studied rice husks-derived silica (RHS) as a filler in natural rubber (NR). The characteristics of RHS at 50 phr to 90 phr filler loading levels were examined to determine its suitability as a substitute for unsustainable carbon black (N772) fillers used in the rubber industry. Bound rubber content, crosslink density, tensile strength, young modulus, tear strength, shore A hardness, compressive set, and elongation at break were measured. Regression models were generated and the correlation of determination (R2) values was obtained. The RHS composites resulted in maximum tensile strength of 13.20 MPa at 90 phr, tear strength of 119 MPa at 90 phr, shore A hardness of 69 at 90 phr, compressive set of 6.72% at 80 and 90 phr, elongation at break of 453.60% at 80 phr, bound rubber content of 92.14% at 50 phr and crosslink density of 3.87×10-2 mol/cm3 at 70 phr. The results obtained were within the range of those obtained for the carbon black filled composites across various loading levels. The R2 value of mechanical characteristics for the RHS and N772 samples respectively were 50.06% and 62.18% (bound rubber content), 97.62% and 99.85% (tensile strength), 98.44% and 63.97% (tear strength), 89.16 and 97.40% (Shore A hardness), 32.90% and 91.80% (compressive set), a d 50.91% and 46.91% (elongation at break). Rice husk-derived Silica filled natural rubber composites showed favourable mechanical properties and can substitute traditional fillers in tyres, rubber engine mounts, bushings, seals and doormats.