Drivers for the implementation of circular economy in the Nigerian AECO industry: a structural equation modelling approach

Purpose This study aims to investigate the drivers influencing the implementation of circular economy principles in the Nigerian architecture, engineering, construction and operation (AECO) industry across diverse regions of Nigeria. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative research approach was adopted, using a structured questionnaire distributed to AECO professionals across four selected regions (North Central, North West, South-South and South West) in Nigeria. The data were analysed using Kruskal–Wallis test and structural equation modelling (SEM). Findings The study findings show a robust consensus of opinions among the respondents across regions and professions. The SEM analysis establishes the significant influence of the hypothesized drivers, regulatory and institutional, supply chain collaboration, technological advancements, organizational support and business strategies on the successful implementation of circular economy principles in the Nigerian AECO industry. Research limitations/implications The study is limited to specific regions and professions within Nigeria. Further limitation is the quantitative orientation of this study, which collects data using only a questionnaire. Practical implications The findings imply that stakeholders can adopt a unified approach to promote circular economy principles in the AECO industry. By recognizing the common understanding of circular economy drivers, collaborative efforts can be streamlined to advance sustainability, resource efficiency and circularity in the industry. Originality/value This study contributes to the nascent field of circular economy implementation in the Nigerian AECO industry. It offers a unique perspective by exploring variations in stakeholder opinions, providing insights into the nuanced understanding of circular economy drivers

Distribution and Characteristics of Non Carious Cervical lesions in an Adult Nigerian Population

Background: Controversies rages in the literature as to the characteristics of non carious cervical lesions (NCCLs) in terms of the location and its severity.Objective: The study is to investigate the characteristics of NCCLs in adult patients who had a high incidence in them and to see if there are any association with the findings.Methods : The author examined 356 teeth with NCCLs in 34 subjects ( male and female aged 22-75 years). The characteristics were based on the location of the lesion and the size (shape, extensiveness and depth).Results : In terms of the location, 61.2% were located on the posterior teeth, and 55.9% on the maxillary teeth. The first premolars (25.8%) and canines (19.4%) were affected most often, followed by the first molars (16.9%) and second premolars (13.8%). There was slight right side preponderance (50.3%) and more lesions in the male subjects (67.4%). Patients tended to be older, with 76.4% in the 40years and older age group. In terms of the size of the lesion, 75.0% of the lesion had angular shape of <135 (wedge), 70.2% had axial depth of 1-2mm, and 51.7% had occlusogingival width (extensiveness) of 2-3.9mm (small). There was association between gender and the severity (extensiveness) of the lesion. The severity (shape and extensiveness) of NCCL was associated with age. There was strong association between the severity of NCCL and site of the lesion (jaws).Conclusion: The authors found that NCCLs were significantly related to age. The posterior maxillary teeth especially the first premolars followed by the canines were the teeth commonly involved. No great difference in incidence was found between the right and left sides as a result of right or left hand dexterity. Awareness of a multifactorial etiology in noncarious cervical lesions may help the clinician to formulate an appropriate treatment plan for the patient. In addition, these characteristics help identify which teeth and patients that are more susceptible.Key Words: Distribution, Characteristics, Noncarious Cervical Lesion, Adult Nigeria

Microbial Evaluation of Lafun in Selected Eateries in Abeokuta Metropolis, Nigeria

Lafun paste, a product of fermented cassava has been reported to be contaminated with food borne and opportunistic pathogens due to unhygienic practices during preparation. This study assessed the microbial safety of lafun paste (LP) sold in three selected eateries from five locations in Abeokuta, Nigeria. Total viable bacteria count (TVC), total coliform count (TCC), fungal count (FC) and lactic acid bacteria count (LAB count) were determined using standard laboratory procedures. The isolates were further identified using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and universal primers 27F and 1525R. A 24 aerobic bacteria and 10 anaerobes were isolated from LP. TVC for LP ranged from 6.90 to 7.86 Log CFU/g while the TCC ranged from 4.30-5.00 Log CFU/g. The identified bacterial isolated include Alcaligenes faecalis, Klebsiella pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhimurium, Pseudomonas stutzeri, Bacillus subtilis, Lactobacillus plantarum, Weissella confusa.Keywords: Microorganisms, lafun, food safety, microorganisms identification

Perception of Dentine Hypersensitivity and Its Management by a Group of Nigerian Dentists

Background: Dentists need to be aware of the management of dentine sensitivity in view of its high prevalence.Objective: The study is to determine by questionnaire the perception of dentine hypersensitivity (DH) and its management by Nigerian Dentists.Method: A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 176 Nigerian Dentists who attended professional dental workshops in Lagos, Ife and Jos, Nigeria.Results: The majority (73.3%) of the responding dentists claimed to see patients with DH. Nearly half (45.1%) of the dentists mentioned cold as the commonest stimulus evoking pain in DH while 56.8% could correctly identified the hydrodynamic theory as the commonest theory of tooth hypersensitivity. Multifactorial aetiology identified as causing DH included tooth wear lesions, periodontal causes and bruxism. Treatment options suggested varies but non-invasive was mentioned more than the invasive techniques. Sensodyne toothpaste was the commonest desensitising paste mentioned. The knowledge of Nigerian Dentists was found to be associated with the specialty of the practitioners (p= 0.0004).Conclusion: Dental Practitioners, especially the General Dental Practitioners should be enthusiastic in updating their knowledge of DH and the management. Prevention of DH by the Patients and the Dentists should be emphasised.Key Words: perception, dentine sensitivity, management, Nigerian Dentist