Prefrontal Activation During Inhibition of a Balance Recovery Step

The ability to quickly step is an important strategy to avoid a fall. However, real-world settings often constrain a stepping path. Such constraints necessitate response inhibition to prevent an inappropriate step and select a new course of action to ultimately recover balance. The present study investigated neural mechanisms that underlie this ability to stop a highly automatic balance recovery step. In the field of cognitive neuroscience, response inhibition has typically been researched using focal hand reaction tasks performed by seated participants. This approach combined with neuroimaging has revealed a neural stopping network, which includes the right Inferior Frontal Gyrus (right IFG) as a key node in this network. It is unclear if the same brain-based stopping networks suppress a prepotent balance reaction since compensatory balance reactions are subcortically triggered, multi-segmental responses that are much faster than voluntary reactions. To test this, functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) was used to measure brain activity in 21 young adults (ages 18-30) as they performed a balance recovery task that demanded rapid step suppression following postural perturbation. The hypothesis was that the right IFG would show heightened activity when suppressing an automatic balance recovery step. A lean and-release system was used to impose temporally unpredictable forward perturbations by releasing participants from a supported forward lean. For most trials (80%), participants were told to recover balance by quickly stepping forward. However, on 20% of trials at random, a high-pitch tone was played immediately after postural perturbation signaling participants to suppress a step and fully relax into a catch harness. This allowed us to target the ability to cancel an already initiated step in a balance recovery context. Average Oxygenated hemoglobin (HbO2) changes were contrasted between step and stop trials, 1-6 seconds post perturbation. A two-way repeated measures ANOVA tested for main effects with condition 4 (Step, Stop), and hemisphere (right, left) and for the interaction. Post hoc analysis was performed using paired t-test comparisons between Step and Stop trials for each channel (Bonferroni correction applied). Two-way, repeated measures ANOVA showed no significant interaction (F1, 20 = 1.212, p = 0.284) between factors and no significant main effect for hemisphere (F1, 20 = 0.282, p = 0.601). However, there was a significant main effect for condition where Stop trials produced a greater response compared to Step trials (F1, 20 = 31.617, p \u3c 0.001). Follow-up analysis revealed a significant increase in three of the seven channels on each hemisphere. Consistent with the hypothesis, the results showed a greater prefrontal response during stopping trials, supporting the idea that executive brain networks are active when suppressing a balance recovery step. Contrary to our hypothesis, a similar increased response for stop trials was observed in both hemispheres indicating that step suppression was not limited to right IFG control, at least not as currently measured. This study demonstrates one way in which higher brain processes may help us prevent falls in complex environments where behavioral flexibility is necessary. This study also presents a novel method for assessing response inhibition in an upright postural context where rapid stepping reactions are required

Radio Political Advertising in Nigeria: Influence on Electorates Acceptance of Political Parties Candidates

This study explores the influence of radio advertising on the electorates’ choice of political parties’ candidates in selected states of South East Nigeria. All registered voters in the states formed the study population. The sample size of 400 respondents was obtained from a population of 3,232,251registered voters. Structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Tables and percentages were used in the presentation and analysis of data. Findings from the study showed that; radio campaign advertising significantly influences the electorates exposure of political parties candidates in the selected states in South Eastern Nigeria, that exposure to radio campaign advertising influences the electorates’ opinion of political parties’ candidates and that the radio campaign advertising significantly serves as a mobilization tool on the electorates about political parties’ candidates. The study concluded that advertising plays significance role on electorates acceptance of political parties candidates and recommended that political parties should continue with the use of improved radio campaign advertising to seek and gain acceptance by the electorates. Keywords: Radio political advertising, effects, electorates acceptance, political candidates, mobilization, choice. DOI: 10.7176/JMCR/81-05 Publication date:August 31st 202

Artocarpus altilis proving its worth in toxic metal removal from the environment

Nuts of breadfruit tree (Artocarpus altilis) obtained from Ugbowo Campus of University of Benin, Benin City, were dehusked and the husk thoroughly washed with distilled water, air-dried, pulverized and sieved to obtain the particulate sizes of 63ƒÊm, 300ƒÊm and 600ƒÊm. These particulate sizes were oven-dried at 105oC to constant weight and preserved in a desiccator. The pulverized husk hereafter was referred to as adsorbent. Adsorbent (1.0g) of each particulate size was weighed into 100cm3 conical flask containing 50cm3 of 2.0, 4.0, 6.0, 8.0 and 10.0mgL-1 Pb2+ ions, respectively. These mixtures were shaken for 30 min after which they were filtered and the filtrate used for Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometric (AAS) analysis. The same process was repeated using Cd2+ and Ni2+ ions, respectively. The effects of particulate size (surface area), temperature, initial metal ion (adsorbate) concentration and pH, on the extent of sorption, were studied; the infrared (IR) spectra of the adsorbent was also studied. Results indicate that sorption capacity is best at pH 4.0 for all metal ions (Cd2+, Pb2+ and Ni2+) studied. The effect of temperaturerevealed that maximum sorption occurs at 29oC compared to other temperatures of 60oC and 90oC. There was a general increase in adsorption of Cd2+, Pb2+, and Ni2+, ions as their initial concentrations increased. The adsorbent particulate size of 63ƒÊm had the greatest adsorptive capacity compared to other sizes. IR analysis of the adsorbent suggested the presence of C = O, OH, N-H, N = O, CßN, and COOH functional groups.Keywords: Artocarpus altilis, sorption, toxic metals

Assessment of Tuberculosis Intensified Case Finding and Isoniazid Preventive Therapy for People Living with HIV in Enugu State, Nigeria

Tuberculosis (TB) has remained the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among people living with HIV (PLHIV). Nigeria has the highest incidence of TB/HIV co infection and HIV associated TB deaths in sub-Saharan Africa. Therefore, TB prevention among PLHIV is of utmost necessity. We assessed tuberculosis intensified case finding (ICF) cascade and isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) for people living with HIV in healthcare facilities in Enugu State, Nigeria. It was a cross sectional study conducted between February and May, 2019. We reviewed a total of 993 folders of PLHIV in the nine health care facilities offering ART in the State. Data was collected with ICF data collection form adapted from literature. Percentages were used to analyse data and their values compared using chi square statistic. Ninety-eight point eight per cent of PLHIV had their TB screen done and documented as at last visit to the clinic, 80% of those screened positive had documented TB diagnostic evaluation while 96.2% of PLHIV with positive TB evaluation were placed on anti-TB treatment. Furthermore, 61.2 % of PLHIV had ever received a course of IPT. Significant differences were observed in TB screening by location and IPT administration by type of health care facility (p<.05). Shortage of staff and poor remuneration were the most reported factors affecting implementation. The gaps identified in the implementation of ICF cascade and IPT have implications for public health and education. To reduce TB burden among PLHIV, all stakeholders must be involved in TB/HIV activities

The Use of Ideologies Such as Mercantilism, Liberalism and Marxism in Explaining the Behaviour of State

This paper seek and attempt to identify and explain the rudiments of the relationship if any that exist between ideologies and the behavior of state and its apparatuses. Though this study is not primarily an exposition of ideas or ideologies or even the substance or structure of the state itself, it attempts a critique of both variables and equally ex-rayed the nature and effect of the relationship as it affect the behavior of state. With a particular attention on how some of these ideologies such as Liberalisms, Mercantilisms and Marxism, developed and affect the behavior of state. The paper reviewed some of the existing but related studies, noting some of the salient features that guided the theoretical evidence that is provided on the link between these highlighted ideologies and some specific behavior of the modern state. Keywords: Liberalism, Mercantilism, Marxism, Ideology, Behaviour of State

Elsie Ezinnwa Nwoko: An Art Music Composer and Music Education Practioner

An art music composer as the term imply refers to a person or persons who were academically or formally trained in the art and techniques involved in music composition.  These categories of composers are broadly divided into two – those whose compositional styles reflect that of western classical music and those whose creative styles seek to leave imprints of Africanness on their works.  On the other   hand, a music education practitioner is one who had had formal training in the field of music education conceptually, theoretically and practically – who in turn trains and or transmit musical knowledge to learners.  In other words, a music education practitioner could be called a music educator.  In Nigeria today abounds art music composers and music education practitioners.  Examples are professor J.H.K, Nketia, T.K.E, Philips, professor Omibiyi-Obidike, Ephraim Amu, professor W.W.C, Echezona, Fela Sowande, professor Richard Okafor to mention a few. This paper focuses on Elsie E. Nwoko as one of the founding fathers of African musical arts education in Nigeria. The topic shall be examined under the following headings: Elsie Nwoko’s biographical data, Elsie Nwoko as an art music composer and music educator, her works and contributions to African musical arts education and conclusion.  In order to achieve the objective of this paper, related materials were perused and reviewed.  Oral interview and random sampling methods were also employed.

Achieving Quality Education/Music Education: Attainable?

Education comprises organized and sustained communication designed to bring about learning. Music education can therefore be said to be an organized and sustained communication process designed for the acquisition of music skills. It is said that education in its broadest sense is the foundation of a nation. The five principle objectives of the National Policy for Education were to create a united, strong and self-reliant nation, a great and a dynamic economy, a just and egalitarian society, a land of bright and full opportunity for all citizens and a free and democratic nation. No economy can be dynamic until there is enough high level and intermediate manpower to direct a discipline and responsible labour force – all these are products of quality education/training. Therefore key players (like the students, teachers, funding, and the curriculum involved in achieving quality education / music education would be discussed and necessary suggestions given

Seasonal pattern of resource conflict between farmers and herdsmen in Benue State, Nigeria

There is sparse literature on seasonal pattern of farmers and herdsmen conflict in Benue State, Nigeria despite numerous links between climate change and resource conflict. Thus, this study was designed to assess the seasonal occurrence of armed conflict in Benue State and analyze the monthly death casualties of armed conflict in Benue state from 2010-2019. Data were collected from secondary sources such as report of Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria watch data base and Newspapers. Data were presented in tables and analyzed using descriptive statistic such as range, mean, standard deviation and coefficient of variation. Result shows that monthly occurrence of armed conflict ranged from 0-20 times with mean value of 4.92 and 98% coefficient of variation. March has the highest number (20) of armed conflict occurrence followed by April and, then July. October had zero (0) record of armed conflict from 2010-2019. Similarly, the monthly conflict death was higher in dry than rainy season. Monthly death ranged from 0-590 with mean value of 106 deaths and 95 % coefficient of variation. It was concluded that both the frequency and death casualties of resource conflict in Benue State have seasonal pattern and were more in dry than rainy season. Intensification of resolution mechanisms and ranching were recommended

Seasonal pattern of resource conflict between farmers and herdsmen in benue state, nigeria

There is sparse literature on seasonal pattern of farmers and herdsmen conflict in Benue State, Nigeria despite numerous links between climate change and resource conflict. Thus, this study was designed to assess the seasonal occurrence of armed conflict in Benue State and analyze the monthly death casualties of armed conflict in Benue state from 2010-2019. Data were collected from secondary sources such as report of Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria watch data base and Newspapers. Data were presented in tables and analyzed using descriptive statistic such as range, mean, standard deviation and coefficient of variation. Result shows that monthly occurrence of armed conflict ranged from 0-20 times with mean value of 4.92 and 98% coefficient of variation. March has the highest number (20) of armed conflict occurrence followed by April and, then July. October had zero (0) record of armed conflict from 2010-2019. Similarly, the monthly conflict death was higher in dry than rainy season. Monthly death ranged from 0-590 with mean value of 106 deaths and 95 % coefficient of variation. It was concluded that both the frequency and death casualties of resource conflict in Benue State have seasonal pattern and were more in dry than rainy season. Intensification of resolution mechanisms and ranching were recommended

Assessment of solid waste characterization in Keffi Iga, Nasarawa State, Nigeria in view of adopting biogas technology for solid waste management

The assessment of solid waste characterization in Keffi Local Government Area in view of adopting biogas technology for solid waste management was carried out. This was achieved through assessment of the quantity of solid waste generation and the composition (organic and inorganic) in the study area. Materials used for data collection are weighing scale and waste bins. Stratified and systematic samplings were used to select households for data collection. The selected households’ waste generation were observed and weighed on daily basis for one week and average weight was calculated for each household to quantify the amount of waste generation and composition. Solid waste generation per household per day in Keffi Local government area ranged from 0.9 Kg to 1.5Kg with mean value of 1.26Kg. There was a significant different (F>[email protected]) in the quantity of solid waste generation among the ten wards. Though, solid wastes in Keffi consist of diverse materials from both raw materials mostly farm/animal residues and manufactured goods, it has higher organic (71.79%) than inorganic (28.21%) components. Thus, it was concluded that adoption of biogas technology for solid waste management in Keffi Local Government Area is feasible based on waste characterization of the area. Pilot demonstration of biogas production from organic waste was recommende