bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unlocking Potential
Authors: Joshi Herat , Joseph Shenson , Shukla Parag
Published: July 2024

This chapter explores the effective communication of digital twin technology's value to healthcare executives. It identifies the critical role that healthcare managers play in integrating digital twins into healthcare systems, emphasizing the need for clear communication of the technological benefits and business impacts. Through comprehensive literature review and case studies, the chapter delves into strategies for presenting digital twin capabilities in a manner that aligns with healthcare executives' strategic priorities. Key methods include data-driven evidence, stakeholder engagement, and aligning digital initiatives with healthcare goals to enhance patient care, operational efficiency, and strategic decision-making. The discussion includes overcoming communication barriers and the importance of executive buy-in for successful technology adoption. This chapter serves as a guide for professionals seeking to leverage digital twin technology in healthcare, highlighting its potential to transform healthcare delivery through improved patient outcomes and operational excellence.
Economic Insecurity Threatens Public Safety and Social Order in South Africa
Authors: Niyitunga Eric Blanco
Published: July 2024

This paper analyses how economic insecurity poses immense threats to public safety and social order in South Africa. It was found that economic insecurity threatens public safety and social order because it disrupts the delivery of essential services such as healthcare, education, political leadership, and governance, making it impossible for people to access sustainable services that meet their expectations. Blockchain creates an automated, autonomous, and self-governing infrastructure that eliminates the need for traditional structures like managers, policies, offices, contracts, and centralized strategies. In banking systems and during financial transactions, blockchain speeds up clearing and settlement processes without requiring later approval. It promotes transparency, reduces transaction risks, and eliminates data centralization. Blockchain improves market efficiency and ensures equitable market access. Blockchain prevents fraud and corruption. A qualitative methodology was adopted to achieve the above assertions.
Enhancing Multimodal Tourism Review Sentiment Analysis Through Advanced Feature Association Techniques
Authors: Chen Peng , Fu Lingmei
Published: July 2024

The development of tourism services presents significant opportunities for extracting and analyzing customer sentiment. However, with the advent of multimodality, travel reviews have brought new challenges. Early methods for detecting such reviews merely combined text and image features, resulting in poor feature correlation. To address this issue, our study proposes a novel multimodal tourism review sentiment analysis method enhanced by relevant features. Initially, we employ a fusion model that combines BERT and Text-CNN for text feature extraction. This approach strengthens semantic relationships and filters noise effectively. Subsequently, we utilize ResNet-51 for image feature extraction, leveraging its ability to learn complex visual representations. Additionally, integrating an attention mechanism further enhances modality correlation, thereby improving fusion effectiveness. On the Multi-ZOL dataset, our method achieves an accuracy of 90.7% and an F1 score of 90.8%. Similarly, on the Ctrip dataset, it attains an accuracy of 83.6% and an F1 score of 84.1%.
Design and Application of Virtual Cloud OMS Computing in Smart Airport
Authors: Feng Xingxue
Published: July 2024

Airport management takes airport information management as its key link, and it is also the key to ensure the safe operation of airports. As a modern information management and processing technology, cloud computing plays an indispensable role in the fields of efficient information processing, strengthening management and improving work efficiency. Under the development background of the information age, the management mode of airport operation and maintenance has also changed to some extent. In the growth of the new era, airport operation and maintenance managers need to introduce new technologies and then combine more advanced technologies with the airport operation and maintenance system (OMS) so as to promote the normal operation of the airport OMS based on advanced data acquisition, analysis, and integration technologies. This article studies the application of cloud computing technology and designs a virtual cloud OMS based on deep learning (DL) from the perspective of the security requirements of the management information system (MIS) to realize the fault diagnosis and identification of the airport MIS. The fault diagnosis technology of the airport MIS based on virtual cloud OMS and DL proposed in this study has broad prospects in practical application. It can be applied to airport operation and maintenance management, security, and other links, providing intelligent support for airport operation.
The Role of the Combination of 3D Simulation Sequence Diagram and Video Motion Recognition Technology in Evaluating and Correcting Dancers' Dance Moves
Authors: Wei Hua , Chau Vinh
Published: July 2024

This paper combines the dance 3D space simulation sequence diagram with video motion recognition technology, filters, denoises, grays and background removal the collected dance video images, analyzes the motion characteristics of people in the sequence diagram, uses support vector machine to learn and train 3D space models, classifies and recognizes people's dance movements, and extracts 3D-SIFT and optical flow characteristics of various areas of human body. Form a three-dimensional space simulation sequence diagram, reduce and normalize the extracted features, get the feature vectors of various characters, and input them into the classifier to realize the recognition of dance movements. The results show that the combination of 3D-SIFT and optical flow can realize the dynamic change of human static information, the illumination invariance of SIFT features can make up for the illumination sensitivity of optical flow features, and the optical flow features can solve the instability problem of determining the key points of SIFT features.
Practical Application and Case Analysis of Computer Image Vision Technology in Music Education and Teaching
Authors: Li Donglin
Published: July 2024

Exploring how to utilize images to enrich music teaching content and provide a more visually impactful learning experience is an important topic. Therefore, this paper introduces a convolutional neural network-based algorithm for extracting audio features to construct a music visualization model. By identifying features such as note pitches, it enhances pitch recognition and integrates with CNN algorithms for audio information visualization. Experimental results demonstrate an accuracy rate exceeding 97%, showcasing the significant advantage of this method in visualizing audio information in music multimedia classrooms. It provides technical support for bringing a new visual experience to music education.
The Role of DIKWP Assets in Shaping Economic Systems and Implications for an Intelligent Consultant System in Real Estate Investment
Authors: Vu Sang , Duan Yucong , Pham Uyen , Song Mengmeng , Guo Zhendong , Mei Yingtian , Nguyen Hien D.
Published: July 2024

Traditional economic theory revolves around information asymmetry, where some possess more knowledge than others. However, the digital age is upending this paradigm. This research proposes a groundbreaking shift: a transition from an Asymmetric Information Economy to a Symmetric Knowledge and Wisdom Economy, fueled by the ubiquitous availability of data and digital communication. The shifting is worked through DIKWP-12 Chains framework (Data-Information-Knowledge-Wisdom-Purpose), which serves as a key pillar supporting this paradigm shift. It integrates Data, Information, Knowledge, Wisdom, and Purpose into a unified semantic processing approach. This novel approach empowers us to navigate this transformative era. Furthermore, this study goes beyond theory by leveraging the DIKWP chains to construct an Intelligent Consultant System for Real Estate Investment. This system analyzes customer behavior data and captures the wisdom behind their purchasing decisions, offering a unique and data-driven approach to real estate investment consulting.
Development of Edible Coating using Coconut Oil and Bee Wax to Extend Shelf Life of Lime (Citrus aurantiifolia)
Authors: Alahakoon A. R. I. S. , Sarananda K. H.
Published: July 2024

Lime (Citrus aurantiifolia) is an important horticultural fruit that has a short shelf life due to its perishable nature. The major postharvest limit is weight loss and yellowing of peel color due to transpiration and respiration. An experiment was conducted to assess the influence of coconut oil, bee wax coating, and sealed packaging on post-harvest storage quality and shelf life of lime at cold storage. Limes were harvested at 147 days after fruit setting. Sorted limes were washed and dried using a fan and then coated with coconut oil and bee wax mixture with the respective ratios of 90:10, 80:20, 70:30 and 100:0 percentages. After coating, limes were kept in 17.5 cm x 17.5 cm size with 150 gauge perforated polyethylene bags and sealed polyethylene bags which served as Modified Atmospheric Packaging (MAP) and then stored at cold conditions (60C, RH 40%). The effectiveness of edible coating and sealed bag in extending the shelf life of lime and fruit quality was evaluated by determining weight loss, firmness, surface color, and juice content which were assessed periodically during storage. The results revealed that 100% coconut oil treatment and 90:10 bee wax coating, especially with a sealed bag, had an immense effect on retaining green colour, reducing weight loss and shrivelling and preserving firmness and moisture content of lime performing better storage life for 56 days of storage.
The significant role of point-of-care coagulation studies: shorter cardiac surgery, better renal function and tranexamic acid cannot alone reduce early platelet transfusions
Authors: Skidmore Kimberly L. , Borne Grant , Kallurkar Anusha , Pavlickova Denisa , Myrcik Dariusz , Varrassi Giustino , Shekoohi Sahar , Kaye Alan D.
Published: July 2024

After cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) approximately 20% of patients require platelets. In our safety-net hospital, the incidence of platelet transfusion is over 40%, perhaps attributable to our prevalent risk factors of renal dysfunction, CPB duration, and absence of tranexamic acid (TXA). We designed this retrospective observational study after surgeons decided against offering CPB in the presence of these risk factors. The Institutional Review Board (IRB) approved the protocol and waived informed consent. Our hypothesis was the number of platelet transfusions in the consecutive patients during the first ninety days of 2022 would be higher than those in 2023. Confounders included platelet counts and hemoglobin immediately before platelet transfusion. Secondary outcomes were postoperative day two creatinine and other components transfused. Preoperatively creatinine trended higher in 2022 at 1.5 vs 1.1, reaching significance postoperatively at 1.9 vs 1.1 (p=0.02). CPB decreased from 174 to 124 min (p=0.06). TXA use increased from 18 of 28 to 26 of 29 patients. Platelets during CPB increased (142 to 173, p=0.06). Hemoglobin nadirs rose (8 g/dL to 8.8, p=0.04). Platelet units transfused per patient tended to rise (0.7±1 vs 0.93±1.5); if exposed, patients tended to receive more units (2.1±1.3 vs 2.5±1.4) sooner. These data support a need for thromboelastograms with platelet mapping immediately post-CPB.
Tracheal stent migration in malignant central airway obstruction – a case report and systematic review of literature
Authors: Madan Manu , Sharma Sreyas , Kumar Rohit , Ish Pranav , Kaushik Rajnish , Gupta Nitesh
Published: July 2024

Airway stents are critical in maintaining airway patency and managing Central Airway Obstruction (CAO) caused by malignant and benign conditions. Despite their effectiveness, complications such as stent migration are common. We report a case of a 25-year-old female with malignant CAO, which was initially managed with an ultra-flex Self-Expanding Metal Stent (SEMS) followed by stent migration and subsequently interlocking SEMS with Y stent deployment. This case report highlights the complexity of managing malignant CAO. More research is needed to establish optimal practices for preventing stent migration and improving patient outcomes. A systematic review of the literature on airway stent migration was also conducted, revealing an incidence of 5-17%, with higher rates in tracheal stents. Factors such as lesion characteristics and location significantly impact migration risk. This review discusses the advantages and challenges of SEMS compared to silicone stents, emphasizing the need for tailored approaches in stent placement and fixation to mitigate migration risks.
From locked-in sensation to acute basilar artery occlusion: a rare case of posterior circulation stroke in a young patient
Authors: Poggiali Erika , Morelli Nicola , Terracciano Chiara , Caborni Claudia , Pergolotti Benedetta , Gavioli Pietro , Vercelli Andrea
Published: July 2024

We report the case of a young male patient who presented to our emergency department complaining of a transient headache and a feeling of motor impairment in his right lower limb, both of which completely resolved spontaneously. After a few minutes of his arrival, he developed a locked-in sensation with anxiety and agitation, followed by a rapid onset of left facio-brachio-crural hemisyndrome. Contrast-enhanced CT of the brain and neck showed the occlusion of the proximal-intermediate basilar artery. Acute basilar artery occlusion (BAO) is a rare life-threatening stroke that requires prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment to avoid rapid fatal complications (coma and death). The prognosis is poor, with long-lasting sequelae in the survivors. The diagnosis is often difficult since BAO accounts for only 1% of all strokes, and the prodromal symptoms are often very mild, transient, and non-specific, such as nausea, dizziness, headache, confusion, and vertigo. In the presence of convulsion-like symptoms or an unexplained altered level of consciousness, emergency physicians should always consider BAO in the differential diagnosis.
An Innovative CBR-Enhanced Approach for Skin Cancer Classification using Cascade Forest Model and Convolutional Neural Network with Attention Mechanism
Authors: Gasmi Safa , DJEBBAR Akila , Merouani Hayet Farida , Djedi Hanene
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION: In recent years, skin cancer has emerged as a pressing concern, necessitating advanced diagnostic and classification techniques.OBJECTIVES: This paper introduces an innovative hybrid approach that combines deep learning and machine learning to enhance the retrieval phase of the Case-Based Reasoning (CBR) system for skin cancer classification.METHODS: The proposed approach leverages a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) with an attention mechanism for feature extraction, which is used to build the case base. Additionally, it uses a modified cascade forest model, augmented with traditional machine learning classifiers for classification. This modified cascade forest model incorporates the XGBoost model in its initial layer to facilitate more effective ensemble learning and bolster predictive performance. Subsequently, in the following layers, it use the random forest model to capitalize on its ability to handle high-dimensional feature spaces and maintain diversity within the ensemble.RESULTS: Rigorous experimentation on the balanced HAM10000 dermoscopic image dataset, employing the Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE), demonstrates the superiority of the modified cascade forest model in multi-class skin cancer classification. This model consistently achieves the highest metrics, including accuracy (95.40%), precision (95.49%), F1-Score (95.38%), and recall (95.44%).CONCLUSION: This research highlights the efficacy of the proposed model compared to other classifiers, emphasizing the significance of the modified cascade forest model in enhancing the accuracy and reliability of skin cancer classification.
Machine Learning for Movement Pattern Changes during Kinect-Based Mixed Reality Exercise Programs in Women with Possible Sarcopenia: Pilot Study
Authors: Sung Yunho , Seo Ji-won , Lim Byunggul , Jiang Shu , Li Xinxing , Jamrasi Parivash , Ahn So Young , Ahn Seohyun , Kang Yuseon , Shin Hyejung , Kim Donghyun , Yoon Dong Hyun , Song Wook
Published: July 2024

Background: Sarcopenia is a muscle-wasting condition that affects older individuals. It can lead to changes in movement patterns, which can increase the risk of falls and other injuries.Methods: Older women participants aged ≥65 years who could walk independently were recruited and classified into two groups based on knee extension strength (KES). Participants with low KES scores were assigned to the possible sarcopenia group (PSG; n=7) and an 8-week exercise intervention was implemented. Healthy seniors with high KES scores were classified as the reference group (RG; n=4), and a 3-week exercise intervention was conducted. Kinematic movement data were recorded during the intervention period. All participants' exercise repetitions were used in the data analysis (number of data points=1,128).Results: The PSG showed significantly larger movement patterns in knee rotation during wide squats compared to the RG, attributed to weakened lower limb strength. The voting classifier, trained on the movement patterns from wide squats, determined that significant differences in overall movement patterns between the two groups persisted until the end of the exercise intervention. However, after the exercise intervention, significant improvements in lower limb strength in the PSG resulted in reduced knee rotation range of motion and max, thereby stabilizing movements and eliminating significant differences with the RG.Conclusion: This study suggests that exercise interventions can modify the movement patterns in older individuals with possible sarcopenia. These findings provide fundamental data for developing an exercise management system that remotely tracks and monitors the movement patterns of older adults during exercise activities.
Prediction of preterm birth at St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor, Northern Uganda: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Awor Silvia , Byanyima Rosemary , Abola Benard , Nakimuli Annettee , Orach Christopher , Kiondo Paul , Ogwal Okeng Jasper , Kaye Dan
Published: July 2024

Background: Preterm birth causes over 2% of perinatal mortality in Africa. Screening in prenatal clinics, may be used to identify women at risk. This study developed and validated second-trimester prediction models of preterm birth, using maternal socio-demographic characteristics, sonographic findings, and laboratory parameters in Northern Uganda.
Methods: This prospective cohort study recruited 1,000 pregnant mothers at 16 - 24 weeks, and assessed their socio-demographic and clinical characteristics. Preterm birth (delivery after 28 and before 37 weeks) was the primary study outcome. Multi-variable analyses were performed, built models in RStudio, and cross-vaidated them using K (10)-fold cross-validation.
Results: The Incidence of preterm birth was 11.9% (90 out of 774). The predictors of preterm birth were multiple pregnancies, personal history of preeclampsia, history of previous preterm birth, diastolic hypertension, serum ALP<98IU, white blood cell count >11000 cells/μl, platelet lymphocyte ratio >71.38, serum urea of 11-45 IU. These predicted preterm birth by 69.5% AUC, with 62.4% accuracy, 77.2% sensitivity, and 47.1% specificity.
Conclusion: Despite low specificity, these models predict up to 77.2% of those destined to have a preterm birth, and may be used for second-trimester preterm birth screening in low-resource clinics.
Keywords: Prediction; second-trimester; preterm-birth; Uganda; Africa.
Perception of spousal involvement in breastfeeding among women attending infant welfare clinic in a private Tertiary Health Institution in Ogun State, Nigeria
Authors: Sodeinde Kolawole , Abolurin Olufunmilola , Adeyoola Olaitan , Ekpo Idongesit , Eto-Ihekwaba Ashley , Mabogunje Anuoluwapo , Ogbuehi Ginikachukwu , Ogbuiyi-chima Ifeanyichukwu , Ogunsanya Tolulope
Published: July 2024

Background: Men’s support improve breastfeeding practices. However, male involvement in breastfeeding practices is low, particularly in middle-and-low-income countries.
Objective: This study assessed the perception of spousal involvement in breastfeeding among women attending infant welfare clinic in a private tertiary hospital in Ogun State, Nigeria.
Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional research was conducted among 330 mothers. Data were collected using structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS Version 22. Spousal involvement was assessed through the report of engagements of their husbands in 9 different activities. Those who participated in at least 5 and fewer than 5 activities were regarded as good and poor involvements respectively. Data were summarized using mean and standard deviation. Logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with perceived male involvement. P < 0.05 was statistically significant.
Results: Mean age of participants was 32.3±6.5 years. Most (88.2%) of them reported that their husbands were involved in decision-making concerning breastfeeding. Women with monogamous relationships, who had tertiary education, and who were Christians were more likely to report good spousal involvement in breastfeeding.
Conclusion: Educated women in monogamous relationships were better supported by their spouses. There is need for women’s education and general empowerment to ensure better breastfeeding practices.
Keywords: Spousal involvement; breastfeeding; infant welfare clinic; Ogun State; Nigeria.
Clinicopathological spectrum and outcome of appendicectomy at a South African tertiary hospital: continuing impact of delayed presentation
Authors: PB Simelane , SS Kader , TE Madiba
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Appendicitis is a common surgical emergency, associated with significant morbidity and mortality.
Aim: To describe the clinicopathological spectrum and outcome of appendicitis in our setting.
Methods: Retrospective descriptive chart review of patients undergoing surgery for appendicitis over two study periods (Group A: 2010-2012 and Group B: 2016-2018). Data collected included demographics, clinical presentation, operative findings and outcome.
Results: There were 229 patients in Group A [median age 24 (IQR 18-32) years] and 145 in Group B [median age 28 (IQR 20-36) years]. Median pre-hospital delay was 3 days for Group A 3 (IQR 2-4) and 1 day for Group B 1 (IQR 1-2). Complicated appendicitis occurred in 69 (30.1%) and 37 (25.5%) patients in Group A and B respectively. Post-operative complication rate was 18.3% and 8.3 % in Groups A and B respectively. Postoperative mortality in Group A was 3.5% and 2 1% for Group B. Delay in presentation was associated with increased complicated appendicitis.
Conclusion: Complicated appendicitis was seen in one third of the patients in both groups. Delay in presentation persists in our setting and it is associated with complicated appendicitis, which carries an increased morbidity and mortality.
Keywords: Appendicitis; complicated appendicitis; treatment outcomes.
Morphology and morphometry of the transverse foramina of cervical vertebrae in an adult Kenyan population: a radiological study
Authors: Nurani Khulud , M Idenya Pamela , Kigera James , M Mwachaka Philip
Published: July 2024

Background: Transverse foramina are canals in cervical transverse processes transmitting the vertebral vessels and the accompanying sympathetic plexus. These foramina exhibit side, sex and population specific variations such as those of size, shape and number. Knowledge of these variations is important for cervical surgical procedures and prediction of vertebral artery variations.
Objective: To describe the morphology and morphometry of cervical transverse foramina in an adult Kenyan population.
Methods: Ninety-four neck CT scan images of 2 mm slice thickness in axial view were used to assess presence, number, completeness and shape of transverse foramina. Antero-posterior and transverse lengths were measured using NeusoftTM software. Paired and independent t-tests were used to compare morphometric parameters for side and sex respectively. One-way ANOVA was used to determine differences in foramina down the cervical spine. A p-value of ≤ 0.05 was considered significant.
Results: Transverse foramina had a prevalence of 98.78% with 3.64% being duplicated. They were identified as type 1 (circular), type 2 (elongated antero-posteriorly), type 3 (elongated transversely), type 4 (oblique left-right elongation) and type 5 (oblique right-left elongation) in 69.62%, 3.62%, 13.38%, 7.23% and 6.15% respectively. 0.46% foramina were incomplete and 3.19% constricted. Diameters on the right were larger than left. C1 foramina were the largest and C7 smallest. The diameters decreased from C2 to C3 then increased to C6.
Conclusion: Transverse foramina display side and level dependent variations. This is of clinical importance to spine surgeons to prevent intraoperative damage of vertebral vessels when operating in the cervical region.
Keywords: Morphology and morphometry; transverse foramina; cervical vertebrae; in Kenyan Population; a radiological study.
Predictors of medical cost and Length of stay of motorcycle injury patients presenting to hospitals in Kisumu City, Kenya
Authors: Cholo Wilberforce , Odero Wilson , Ogendi Japheths
Published: July 2024

Background: Motorcycle crash injuries (MCIs) cause mortality and exert financial cost, globally. However, there is paucity of information on cost and length of stay of motorcycle injuries.
Objective: To assess factors influencing medical costs and length of stay (LOS) of motorcycle crash injuries presenting in hospitals in Kisumu city,
Methods: This was a cross-sectional study in which all 1073 motorcycle injury cases were enrolled over a period of six months. A pre-tested, questionnaire was used to collect data. Data were analysed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), logistic regression and multivariable regression analysis. P-value < 0.05 considered significant.
Results: A total of 1073 motorcycle injury visits were made to the hospitals during the study period of which 46.0% were admitted. The total medical cost for motorcycle injury patients was Kshs. 19, 134,877 (USD 191348.77). The mean LOS was 19.8 days (1-235 days). Injuries requiring surgical intervention, higher injury severity score, and helmet non-use were significantly associated with higher medical cost and length of stay.
Conclusion: Motorcycle injuries are a major cause of hospital use and present significant economic burden. Surgical intervention, injury severity and non-helmet use were the major predictors of length of stay and medical costs.
Keywords: Motorcycle injuries; length of stay; cost; predictors; severity.
TB co-infection and associated factors among HIV patients attending highly active antiretroviral therapy in Saint Peter’s TB Specialized Hospital, Ethiopia: a five years retrospective study
Authors: Getaw Dereje , Tigu Fitsum
Published: July 2024

Background: TB and HIV are the two widely distributed and successful microbial diseases which impose public health problems globally.
Objectives: The study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of TB among people living with HIV (PLHIV).
Methods: A retrospective study was conducted among PLHIV at Saint Peter’s TB Specialized Hospital (SPTSH). Study participants were selected by random sampling technique. Logistic regression analyses were employed to determine the associations between dependent and independent variables. P ≤ 0.05 was taken as statistically significant.
Results: The prevalence of TB among PLHIV in the entire study population was 24.6%. The proportion of pulmonary TB (PTB), disseminated TB (DTB) and extra pulmonary TB (EPTB), were 49 (57.6%), 9 (10.6%) and 27 (31.8%), respectively. Logistic regression analysis showed that PLHIV who are non-adhered to ART (AOR = 51.6, 95% CI 24.18 - 387), HAART duration of > 35 months (AOR = 0.39, 95% CI 0.198 - 2.10) and WHO clinical stage IV (AOR = 40.14, 95% CI15.14 -106.44), were significantly associated with TB/HIV co-infection.
Conclusions: TB co-infection is the major public health issue of PLHIV. Special emphasis is required to reduce the incidence of TB/HIV associated morbidity and mortality among PLHIV.
Keywords: Adherence; ETB; prevalence; TB/HIV co-infection.
Faith-based approach in the control of substance abuse: interventional perspective of Hisbah in Northern Nigeria
Authors: Uzobo Endurance , Yusuf Rakiya Kpada , Scent Grace A.T
Published: July 2024

Substance abuse has become a global problem which is being addressed as one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Target 3.5, and focused on the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, especially narcotic drug addiction, and hazardous alcohol use. In Nigeria, several efforts have been made by succeeding governments to reduce substance abuse through formal This study, therefore, examines the roles of Hisbah (an Islamic police force in Northern Nigeria tasked with upholding Shari’a law) as an informal strategy for reducing substance abuse, as well as people’s views of Hisbah’s role in the prevention and control of substance use in Kano State, Nigeria. The study’s theoretical grounding is in Emile Durkheim’s Theory of Religion and Social Control. This exploratory study employed a qualitative approach in its methods of investigation. This study recruited a total of 24 participants. These participants were made up of two (2) executives of Hisbah, three (3) Hisbah Commandants, five (5) Hisbah field personnel, seven (7) offenders, and seven (7) members of the general public. The qualitative data obtained were analyzed using narrative technique and thematic approach with the aid of Atlas ti. software. Findings from the study indicated that religious organizations such as that of the Hisbah play a significant role in the fight against substance abuse. The study recommended that religious organizations should be co-opted into mainstream government policies in the fight against drug and substance use. means. Still, the threat has persisted owing to the weak implementation of substancerelated policies and laws. Despite this, there is little empirical research on faith- based informal mechanisms of reducing the threat.
Predictors of cognitive impairment in patients with substance use disorder in Kiambu County, Kenya
Authors: Mwihaki Lawrence , Mwanzo Isaac , Githae Eunice
Published: July 2024

Cognitive impairments induced by substance use contribute to poorer treatment outcomes among patients with substance use disorder (SUD). Neuropsychological assessments are often neglected during patient evaluation in SUD treatment programs owing to the fact that they require extensive time for evaluation and are resource intensive. This inattention is likely to compromise comprehensive treatments which would offer better prognosis for such patients undergoing treatment for SUD. The main objective of this study was to determine predictors of neuro cognitive disorders (NCD) in patients with substance use disorders enrolled in rehabilitation centers in Kiambu County, Kenya. A cross-sectional design was adopted and data collected between Oct-23 to Jan 2024, covering a total of 250 patients aged 18-65 years that consented to participate in the study. Consecutive non-probability  sampling technique was deployed in the recruitment of the respondents into the study. A self-rated questionnaire was developed for data collection whereas the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) Tool was employed in the screening for cognitive impairment. The prevalence of cognitive impairment was 34.8% (Prevalence per primary substance showed alcohol=37%, .cannabis=22%, and khat=22%). Age Coefficient=0.0852, P=0.013 CI= 0.018- 0.152), education (Coefficient=0.0783, P<0.008 CI= 0.021-0.139), and anxiety disorder (Coefficient=0.4286, P<0.001 CI= 0.317- .540) were found to be significantly associated with neurocognitive disorders at multivariate analysis. This shows that it is important to screen for cognitive impairments during early treatment stages considering the high prevalence rate. This will enhance the choice of treatment course and maximize on treatment outcomes.
Self-esteem, health locus of control and resilient personality as predictors of substance abuse among in-school adolescents in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Okurame David E. , Oladipo Muyiwa , Uye Emmanuel Etim
Published: July 2024

Substance abuse has become a recurring issue that affects the individual, family and the society with enormous costs. The issue is more disturbing as more in-school adolescents are getting into substance abuse that is threatening the social fabric of the society. Studies have investigated several predictors of substance abuse with varied results. Therefore, this study examined selfesteem, health locus of control and resilient personality as predictors of substance abuse among in-school adolescents in Ibadan, Nigeria. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey research design using purposive sampling technique to select six secondary schools in Ibadan metropolis. Data were collected from 309 participants using validated questionnaires. Data collected were analyzed using t- test for independent samples and multiple regression analysis. Results indicated that self-esteem [t (307) = 7.24, p < 0.05], health locus of control [t (307) = 4.10, p < 0.05] and resilient personality [t (307) = 3.10, p < 0.05] significantly influenced substance abuse among in- school adolescents. Also, the results revealed that self- esteem, health locus of control and resilient personality jointly predicted substance abuse among study participants [R2 = 0.14, F (3, 299) = 9.37, p < 0.05]. Finally, the results showed that health locus of control (β = 0.31, p < 0.05) and resilient personality (β = 0.45, p < 0.05) independently predicted substance abuse among in- school adolescents. The study concluded that self- esteem, health locus of control and resilient personality are strong predictors of substance abuse among in- school adolescents. The study recommended that government and other stakeholders should design and implement programmes that will help to improve self-esteem, health locus of control and resiliency among in-school adolescents to reduce attraction to substance abuse.
Has Banditry Come to Stay? Triggers, Impacts and Failures of Responses to Banditry in Northern Nigeri
Authors: Olasupo Thompson , Awange Phoebe , Obi Modupe , Olugbenga Aina , Adeosun Kehinde , Bamidele Jinadu
Published: July 2024

This article examines the triggers, impacts and why responses to banditry has failed in northern Nigeria. It relied solely on secondary materials elicited from literature, the social media and media reports as well as documents from governmental and non-governmental organisations. The article is limited to the assessment of banditry on the northern part of Nigeria. The article finds that the triggers of banditry are multifaceted ranging from poverty, unemployment, weak institutions and climate change with its impacts on lives, livelihood, displacement and refugees as well as infrastructural decay. It has enormous impacts on lives, loss of livelihoods, infrastructures and institutions and displacements, food and nutritional security, and refugees. In spite of the responses from stakeholders from federal to local governments and public reactions against the leaders and security agents; much have not been achieved to end the phenomenon. The factors responsible for this are poor funding, unemployment, saboteurs and lucrativeness of banditry and politicisation of banditry among others. The article, hinged on the fragile state framework argues that until the triggers of banditry are addressed, the threat may stay for a long time. The article concludes that since the triggers of banditry like other insecurity is driven by State fragility, government must address the symptoms of fragility in the Nigerian State. The article recommends three levels of interventions, short term, and middle term and long term. This include addressing unemployment, reforming and building institutions and having the political will.
Kitchen cabinet and Cabalism in Nigerian Democracy: Power, Politics, and Prospect
Authors: Oduola Olasunkanmi
Published: July 2024

The concept of a kitchen cabinet refers to a group of unofficial advisers who wield considerable influence on the president, often with little or no accountability. Cabalism, on the other hand, describes a clique of powerful individuals who manipulate political and economic resources for personal gain, often at the expense of national development. This study examines the role of the kitchen cabinet and cabalism in Nigerian democracy, analyzing the relationship between power, politics, and prospects for democratic governance. Using secondary data, this study finds that the presence of these informal power structures (kitchen cabinet and cabalism) undermines the principles of democratic governance, including transparency, accountability, and participation. The study concludes that there is a need for institutional reforms that address the root causes of kitchen cabinet and cabalism, in order to promote a more inclusive and transparent democratic system in Nigeria
Misconduct Reporting and Query Management as Performance Tool in the Nigerian Public Service
Authors: Otu Akanu , Offu Peter , Nnadi Samuel , Ajaegbo Ifeanyi
Published: July 2024

Query remains the most effective corrective measure in the public sector for monitoring employee wrongdoing, as it aims to enhance performance and service delivery. Without a doubt, the query method has become ineffective in Nigerian public service and there is glaring lack of scholarly research in this area. This study aims to identify the reasons behind the ineffectiveness of query procedures in Nigerian public services and to propose constructive measures to address the issue. Through this research, we hope to contribute to the development of more efficient and fair processes that can enhance the overall performance of public services in Nigeria. To better understand the reasons why the power of query has diminished in the Nigerian public service, we utilized the McGregor theory as a theoretical framework and reviewed current literature on public misconduct. We found that certain factors have contributed to the decline in the use of query, including employee collusion, a weak institutional framework, a weak corporate governance mechanism, nepotism, and demonization. By identifying these factors, we can create a more constructive and effective approach to addressing the issue of public misconduct in Nigeria. This study suggests that senior officers must use the threat of harsh punishment to correct misbehaving subordinates without fear or favor by drawing on the reasoning from Douglas McGregor's Theory of X.
Model for Curbing Corruption in Nigeria in the 21st Century
Authors: Nwangele Sunday , Chima Lawrence , Nweze Chinwe , Nome Ujebe
Published: July 2024

This paper focused on Model for Curbing Corruption in Nigeria in the 21st Century. The paper looked at the meaning of corruption, nature of corruption in Nigeria, forms of corruption, effects of corruption and causes of corruption. The authors considered Utilitarian-Hedonistic Theory of corruption as relevant theory for the study. It was discovered that corruption is seen in all spheres of life in developing countries of the world. Corruption affects negatively the quality of product and services of any organization. The paper is of the opinion that management of corruption can be based on the following model: accountability, transparency, compliance to standard, punishment, use of guarantors, corruption trials, prevention mechanism, judicial proceedings bottleneck, banishment, citizen education and curriculum development. It was recommended that corporate business community must be involved in the fight against corruption in organization, workers in the organization should be trained or educated on the evils of corruption, corruption detection and deterrence; the traditional means of corruption management such as oath-taking in the shrine; banishment and use of guarantor should be re-emphasized and amplified; corrupt practices and trials should be straight-forward without any form of corrupt proceeding or sentiment; Curriculum developers should enshrine corruption in the school curriculum to specify dangers and management of corruption.
Nigeria-China Relations and Economic Development
Authors: Chiedozie Nwosu , Aloh Ngwuta , Ibiam Okechukwu , Nwankwo Felix , Ikpolo Gabriel , Iwuala Harrison
Published: July 2024

This work explored the dynamics of Nigeria-China relations from the political and economic points of view between 1999-2023. The primary concern of this paper is to discern the extent Nigeria-China relations is mutually beneficial and how Nigeria can stand to gain more if the relationship is properly aligned to Nigeria’s national interest. The central argument of this work is that Nigeria stands to gain more from China than from the West bearing in mind the fact that over one hundred years of Africa’s relationship with the West has been largely exploitative and disadvantageous. In this regard, the research employed both primary and secondary sources of data collection. The primary sources relied on first-hand information gathered from the Chinese Embassy as well as key actors within the Nigeria External Affairs Ministry and Key Informant Interviews on experts in Nigeria-China relations. The secondary sources relied on already existing information from libraries, text books, journals and the internet. The theoretical framework employed is the Complex Interdependence Theory. The conclusion drawn from this work is that Nigeria-China relations have not fully developed to the extent of being more beneficial to Nigeria economically and politically. What currently subsists is that China is gaining economically more in terms of trade to Nigeria’s disadvantage. However, politically and socio-culturally, the two countries are mutually benefiting due to various diplomatic protocols and cultural exchanges. The study recommended among others that Nigeria must strive to develop her techno-industrial export-oriented base to ensure more symmetric beneficial relationship with China.
Challenges to Protection and Management of Official Records in the Era of Freedom of Information Law in Nigeria
Authors: Yusuf Garba
Published: July 2024

Official records and data of strategic value are generated daily in government service through files, electronic mails and in computer sets in the course of governance and administration of the State. These official records and data are necessary ingredients for policy making and policy implementation process in government. Large numbers of these official records and data are sensitive in nature hence requires protection for State’s security and in the public interest in spitethe press freedom guaranteed by the 1999 Constitution and the freedom of information law. This paper examines challenges facing the protection of official records, data privacy and record management despite the freedom of information Act (2011). The issues of leakages of official memoranda; theft and burning of records; hacking and the problems of conflicts between subsisting laws on secrecy and protection of official records and some relevant provisions of the freedom of information law were extensively analysed, with a view to striking a balance between the necessity for protection of official records and data privacy for security and public interest; and the increasing needs for transparency and accountability in democratic dispensation which the freedom of information laws seeks to achieve in Nigeria’s fourth republic. The study is anchored on the record continuum theory and it adopted a qualitative based-content analysis as well as the literature-review approach to examine and analyse existing laws and challenges relating to protection of official records, data privacy and record management in this era of freedom of information law.
Regulatory Capture and the Continuous Despoilment of the Niger-Delta Environment in Nigeria
Authors: Akor Ikechukwu , Nwosumba Victor , Ukeje Ikechukwu , Otu Akanu , Ibe Chuwkwuemeka , Nwigwe Hope , Aloh Johnson , Amulu Sampson
Published: July 2024

The commencement of oil exploration in commercial quantities in Oloibiri in the Niger Delta in 1956, came with great excitement and tall hopes for the rapid development and accelerated civilization of the region. But little was known of the pains associated with the exploration of oil such as oil spillages, gas flaring, deforestation, noise pollution, and other sundry ecological effects. The activities of the oil companies have been implicated in this malaise. However, there have been state laws to nip to the bud these untoward effects of oil exploration in the environment. Nevertheless, the status quo remains to the detriment of national security and survival. This paper espouses the idea that it was the inability of the state to effectively monitor and sanction these oil companies that has led to the despoilment of the Niger Delta environment by the activities of the later. We anchored our analysis on the regulatory capture theory. This will aid an understanding of the nexus between the state and oil companies in the persistent despoliation of the Niger Delta environment despite state laws to the contrary. We will be guided by the following question: why has, despite state laws against oil spillages and gas flaring in Nigeria, this activities has continued untrammeled in the Niger Delta environment
The Role of Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) on Crime Prevention and Management in Gombe State, Nigeria
Authors: Mumuni Nurain , Abdulrasheed Abdulyakeen
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study is to investigate the Role of Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) on Crime Prevention and Management: A Study of Gombe State. Adopting descriptive survey and random sampling procedure to select a sample size of one hundred (100) participants, 90 respondents were filled and returned. The instrument of data collection was questionnaire. Data were analyzed using percentage and frequency count table. It was found that Civil Defense as an emerging organization has played some vital roles in ameliorating the effect of war and conflict amidst the civil populace. Also the Study indicated the challenges faced by the corps in peace management which includes; inadequate equipment, lack of cooperation from the public and negative perception, bribery and corruption, poverty, politicization of recruitment and promotion, under founding, lack of personnel, poor remuneration, lack of periodic workshop, seminars and trainings, poor working conditions. The study recommends among others that the corps should be properly equipped with modern and sophisticated equipment. Government must provide good condition of service to the corps, this include recruitment of adequate number of NSCDC, attractive salary and accommodation. This will improve the image of the NSCDC and thereby improving their performance toward crime prevention and control. There is need to establish corps Board at the local level to replace the moribund and weak Corps Community Service Committee.