Background: Surgical sponges are used in almost all surgeries in Liberia and around the world. They sometimes may inadvertently be left in the body following a surgery and are then referred to as gossypibomas or texti...Background: Surgical sponges are used in almost all surgeries in Liberia and around the world. They sometimes may inadvertently be left in the body following a surgery and are then referred to as gossypibomas or textiloma. Their presence can result in significant morbidity and even mortality for the patient, and unpleasant medicolegal consequences for the surgeon. This case is the first to be reported from Liberia. Case Presentation: A 43-year-old para 3, alive 3 Liberian lady, presented in our emergency room in acute urinary retention. Plain kidney, ureter and bladder X-rays showed an amorphous calcified object within the urinary bladder. Abdominal ultrasound scan revealed 7 cm × 5 cm bladder stone. She underwent open cystolithotomy, and a partially calcified gauze swab was recovered from the bladder. The patient was discharged after a smooth post-operative period and follow-up cystoscopy showed no intravesical abnormality. Conclusion: Gossypiboma or textiloma is apparently very rare in Liberia, as there is no mention of its occurrence in academic literature from Liberia. The presence of any foreign body in the bladder can potentiate the formation of a calculus. Radiological findings are variable and non-specific, thus increasing the risk of a missed diagnosis. The morbidity associated with this condition and the possibility of medico-legal liability make prevention of this condition imperative.展开更多
Liberia holds 44.5% of the remaining portion of the Upper Guinean Rainforest in West Africa,which is home to critically endangered forest elephants and western chimpanzees.The forests are of vital importance for the l...Liberia holds 44.5% of the remaining portion of the Upper Guinean Rainforest in West Africa,which is home to critically endangered forest elephants and western chimpanzees.The forests are of vital importance for the livelihoods of millions of West Africans and provide key ecosystem services of local and global importance for food systems transformation and agroecology.Liberia’s efforts toward land reform through legislation and policies recognise communities’rights to own and manage their customary lands and resources.These include the National Forestry Reform Law of 2006,the Community Rights Law Concerning Forest Lands of 2009,and the Land Rights Act of 2018,and more.In May 2022,a program team from the Sustainable Development Institute(SDI)-Friends of the Earth Liberia researched the social and environmental impacts of Maryland Oil Palm Plantations(MOPPs)in Liberia.Twenty-three(23)key informant interviews(KIIs)and 10 focus group discussions(FGDs)were conducted in seven communities in and around the MOPP.They included farmers,contract workers,MOPP staff,local authorities,women and youth leaders,the Environmental Protection Agency(EPA)Inspector,the Civil Society Head,and the Gender Coordinator of Maryland County.The team cross-checked information with formal documents as much as possible and took photographs and global positioning system(GPS)locations of areas of deforestation,pollution,and conflict.The team also used observation to monitor environmental pollution,such as affluent into water bodies and planting oil palm in wetlands.The team used narrative analysis and geospatial landscape analysis to analyze the data.The research finds that land conflict and deforestation have several negative impacts on communities.MOPP has not respected land tenure rights or followed Free Prior and Informed Consent(FPIC)standards,including resettlement without reparation and destruction of farms and old towns without(sufficient)compensation or restitution.During MOPP land acquisition and clearance,communities experienced the loss of their farms and the identification of villages as“village de squatters”,leading to restricted access to farmland,heightened food insecurity,and reduced income from cash crops to support families.MOPP destroyed high conservation value areas and destroyed secondary forest regrowth,which affected important biodiversity areas.MOPP is one of the four large-scale industrial palm oil plantations in Liberia in Maryland County.It has a palm oil mill in a joint venture with Golden Veroleum Liberia(GVL).Its 2011 concession agreement includes 8,800 hectares for industrial palm oil plantations.展开更多
Reports and claims have been made reflecting opinions of the environmental impacts of the Whein Town Landfill Facility on the residents of the Whein Town Community. This study seeks to examine the environmental effect...Reports and claims have been made reflecting opinions of the environmental impacts of the Whein Town Landfill Facility on the residents of the Whein Town Community. This study seeks to examine the environmental effects of the Whein Town Landfill on nearby residents, and the effectiveness of the existing mitigation schemes. This cross-sectional study used 4-point-Likert and 2-point-dichotomous scales questionnaires to collect information from 352 Whein Town community household heads. The findings reveal that “odorous emissions” represent the most critical environmental challenge, severely impacting residents’ well-being and quality of life. By contrast, “garbage spillage along routes” has a minimal impact on residents’ lives, with many residents rating it as “Not Serious”. Six out of eight mitigation implemented schemes achieved a success rate below 25%, one performed at approximately 50%, and only one scheme—the landfill fencing—was effectively implemented, reaching a near-perfect success rate of 99.99%. Therefore, residents of Whein Town are experiencing adverse environmental effects that can be remediated with proper planning and the implementation of existing schemes.展开更多
<strong>Background:</strong> The prevalence of transfusion associated hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection differs across different population geographically. Ascertaining the seroprevalence of HBV infection ...<strong>Background:</strong> The prevalence of transfusion associated hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection differs across different population geographically. Ascertaining the seroprevalence of HBV infection is vital to informing the way of precautionary and control strategies. This study sought to establish the seroprevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBVsAg) among blood donors in Yelewonyan Memorial Hospital Lofa, Liberia. <strong>Methods:</strong> This was a retrospective study which involved reviewing of blood donation records for the year 2020 at Telewonyan Memorial Hospital in Lofa County. The data obtained from the records were analyzed. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 12 for windows.<strong> Results: </strong>A total of 584 voluntary blood donors were screened for donation in 2020. Out of 584, 554 (95.9%) were males while the rest were females. Prevalence of 3.3% was observed among blood donors in Telewonyan Memorial Hospital. There is a significant difference between gender and age with HBV seropositivity among blood donors. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> The findings of this study suggest that the study site is of low endemicity with HBV infection. Usually, males are more probably to be HBVsAg seropositive than their female’s counterpart. Planning more extensive study and educational programs would help minimize the spread of HBV infection among the general population.展开更多
The success of any waste management system requires accurate and up-to-date </span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;&...The success of any waste management system requires accurate and up-to-date </span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">data on quantity, composition of waste. Waste generation data from household are needed to address issues relating to municipal solid wastes such as management method, performance improvement, policy, regional and local planning, administrative, cost accounting, design and operation of landfill facilities and environmental quality. This study was conducted to provide empirical data on generation rates, quantity and composition, management practices, challenges and strategies from urban household. Waste collection, weighing, questionnaires survey and field observation were methods used during the study. Waste was collected and weighed from 60 households using multi-stage sampling technique for seven days. Questionnaires were analyzed </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">using </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20 and Excel. </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">A total of 1125.2 kg of waste was recorded. </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">The average household waste generation was 3 kg per day with per capita generation rate of 0.41 kg/cap/day. The compositional analysis showed that Organic (53%), Plastic (11%), Textile (6%), Metal (2%), Glass (1%), Paper and Cardboard 4% and others (22%). Solid waste management practices are very rudimentary. Burning (53.7%) and Open Dumping (30%) were found to be the most commonly used method of disposal with very limited collection service (33.3%) and segregation. The most challenges faced by households were communal disposal area (66.7%) and waste service providers (21.7%) storage bins (11.6%). Waste to energy (48.3%) and compositing (23.3%) were the most considered option for waste management by the respondents.展开更多
Background: The incidence of posterior gastric perforation worldwide is low;the literature has no previous record of its occurrence in Liberia. The diffuse symptoms of a perforated posterior gastric ulcer, delay by pa...Background: The incidence of posterior gastric perforation worldwide is low;the literature has no previous record of its occurrence in Liberia. The diffuse symptoms of a perforated posterior gastric ulcer, delay by patients before they present to hospital, and the lack of skilled personnel and facilities in Liberia to diagnose and treat this condition increase the mortality associated with posterior gastric perforation. Objective: To report the first case of posterior gastric perforation encountered in Liberia. Materials and Method: Case report. Case Presentation/Report: A 44 year old male was referred to John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital (Liberia’s principal teaching hospital) with a diagnosis of gastritis after six days of worsening epigastric pain. He had a history of NSAID use for a chronic leg and foot ulcer. Physical examination revealed a moderately distended, markedly tender abdomen characterized by guarding, rigidity and low-pitched bowel sounds. Patient was resuscitated with intravenous fluids, antibiotics and analgesics. An emergency exploratory laparotomy subsequently performed revealed a large collection of purulent peritoneal fluid, a 3 × 4 cm perforation on the posterior wall of the stomach and a 3 × 2.5 cm perforation of the transverse mesocolon. The perforations were repaired and the patient recovered satisfactorily. Conclusion: Though relatively rare and associated with a high morbidity and mortality, this case report shows that the paucity of reported cases of posterior gastric perforation may also be attributable to lack of specialist staff with capacity for clinical diagnosis and surgical intervention in a resource poor setting. Identifying patients with gastric perforation and having the skill to repair the perforations significantly enhance the clinical outcome.展开更多
Background: Penile cancer is uncommon in Liberia with no record of its occurrence so far in the literature. Its occurrence worldwide is significantly affected by cultural or religious practices like childhood circumci...Background: Penile cancer is uncommon in Liberia with no record of its occurrence so far in the literature. Its occurrence worldwide is significantly affected by cultural or religious practices like childhood circumcision. Smoking, poor penile hygiene and inflammatory processes in the presence of smegma increase the risk of its occurrence. Objective: To review the first case of penile cancer treated in Liberia. Materials and Method: Case report. Case Presentation/Report: Our index patient is a 65-year old man referred from a peripheral centre in acute urinary retention. He also presented with a year history of progressively expanding ulcerative penile lesion affecting the glans and penile shaft. Local examination of the genitalia revealed an ulcerated lesion extending from the glans up to the mid shaft of the penis. The penobulbar urethra was free of induration. The external urethral meatus was infiltrated by the lesion. The scrotum and testes were normal and digital rectal examination revealed a moderately enlarged benign prostate. Bilateral inguinal lymph node enlargement was elicited. A diagnosis of advanced penile cancer with benign prostatic hyperplasia was made. The patient had partial penectomy, reconstruction of new external urethral meatus and inguinal lymphadenectomy. The specimen was histologically confirmed to be Squamous cell Carcinoma of the penis;the resection margins and lymph nodes biopsied were found to be adequate and tumor free respectively. Patient’s post operative recovery was uneventful and he was discharged after a week. His follow up status after 6 months has remained satisfactory. Conclusion: Though rare, penile cancer does occur in Liberia and specialist staff with capacity for diagnosing and surgical intervention remains critical to patients’ outcome. Early intervention improves the chances of better outcome;counseling is critical to prevent treated patient lapsing into depression.展开更多
Small-scale fisheries,particularly those targeting small pelagic fish,are a vital sector in Liberia,providing essential food for the local population and generating income for livelihoods.Sardinella maderensis,predomi...Small-scale fisheries,particularly those targeting small pelagic fish,are a vital sector in Liberia,providing essential food for the local population and generating income for livelihoods.Sardinella maderensis,predominantly caught by motorized canoes using gill nets and seine nets,is the primary species in these fisheries.To establish management target reference points for the S.maderensis fishery,this study applied the Schaefer production model to aggregated and disaggregated catch and effort data collected by Liberia's National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority(NaFAA)from 2018 to 2022.The findings indicate that,in both the aggregated and disaggregated models,the current(2022)fishing effort exceeds the MEY level,leading to diminishing economic returns and approaching economic overfishing thresholds.The economic reference points,MEY and EMEY,were estimated to be 3%and 19%lower in the aggregated model,and 30%and 44%lower in the disaggregated model,compared to the current(2022)catch and relative fishing effort.This situation arises when the cost of fishing exceeds the price of fish,driven by inefficient and ineffective fishing boats,which leads to high unit costs of effort compared to unit revenue.To fully realize the potential of the S.maderensis fishery,this study recommends a combination of input and output control management strategies,the adoption of more efficient fishing technologies,and the provision of alternative livelihoods for coastal communities.展开更多
China’s commitment to modernising Liberia’s health care facilities brings benefits.When 32-year-old Martha Kollie arrived at the newly established China-aid National Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Laboratory in th...China’s commitment to modernising Liberia’s health care facilities brings benefits.When 32-year-old Martha Kollie arrived at the newly established China-aid National Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Laboratory in the Liberian capital of Monrovia,she was unsure if she would receive the medical care she desperately needed.展开更多
This article describes a pilot study aiming at generating social interactions between a humanoid robot and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), through the practice of a gesture imitation game. The partici...This article describes a pilot study aiming at generating social interactions between a humanoid robot and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), through the practice of a gesture imitation game. The participants were a 17-year-old young lady with ASD and intellectual deficit, and a control participant: a preadolescent with ASD but no intellectual deficit (Asperger syndrome). The game is comprised of four phases: greetings, pairing, imitation, and closing. Field educators were involved, playing specific roles: visual or physical inciter. The use of a robot allows for catching the participants’ attention, playing the imitation game for a longer period of time than with a human partner, and preventing the game partner’s negative facial expressions resulting from tiredness, impatience, or boredom. The participants’ behavior was observed in terms of initial approach towards the robot, positioning relative to the robot in terms of distance and orientation, reactions to the robot’s voice or moves, signs of happiness, and imitation attempts. Results suggest a more and more natural approach towards the robot during the sessions, as well as a higher level of social interaction, based on the variations of the parameters listed above. We use these preliminary results to draw the next steps of our research work as well as identify further perspectives, with this aim in mind: improving social interactions with adolescents with ASD and intellectual deficit, allowing for better integration of these people into our societies.展开更多
Hexaferrites'magnetic and structural properties are highly sensitive to changes in sintering temperature and cationic replacements.We fabricated Ca_(0.5)Cu_(0.5)Fe_(12-x)DyxO_(19)hexaferrites using the sol-gel tec...Hexaferrites'magnetic and structural properties are highly sensitive to changes in sintering temperature and cationic replacements.We fabricated Ca_(0.5)Cu_(0.5)Fe_(12-x)DyxO_(19)hexaferrites using the sol-gel technique.We examined the phase,microstructure and magnetic aspects of the samples with respect to varying doping of rare earth dysprosium.The results show the expansion in the lattice upon incorporation of dysprosium against iron.Morphological studies confirm the uniform distribution of particles with slightly longitudinal nanoflakes in one direction.Magnetic investigations show an increase in magnetic saturation(Ms)with increasing dysprosium incorporation till optimum level is achieved for 15%doping concentration,with negligible change for maximum doping level.Furthermore,coercivity(Hc)and magnetic moment(mB)in terms of Bohr's magneton(μB)also show an increasing trend with dysprosium substitution levels.The maximum saturation magnetization of 33.355 emu/g is achieved with magnetic remanence of 18.290 emu/g,along with optimum magnetic moment of 6.249μB.In addition to the traditional magnetic parameters,magnetic anisotropy parameters were explored for the deep insights into magnetic parameters.These outcomes suggest that improved magnetic properties of Ca_(0.5)Cu_(0.5)Fe_(12-x)DyxO_(19)ferrites make it good substitute for storage devices,magnetic filters,and other magnetic applications.展开更多
It is widely known that the recent Ebola Virus Disease(EVD)in West Africa caused a serious disruption to the national health system,with many of ongoing disease focused programmes,such as mass drug administration(MDA)...It is widely known that the recent Ebola Virus Disease(EVD)in West Africa caused a serious disruption to the national health system,with many of ongoing disease focused programmes,such as mass drug administration(MDA)for onchocerciasis(ONC),lymphatic filariasis(LF)and schistosomiasis(SCH),being suspended or scaled-down.As these MDA programmes attempt to restart post-EVD it is important to understand the challenges that may be encountered.This commentary addresses the opinions of the major health sectors involved,as well as those of community members,regarding logistic needs and challenges faced as these important public health programmes consider restarting.There appears to be a strong desire by the communities to resume NTD programme activities,although it is clear that some important challenges remain,the most prominent being those resulting from the severe loss of trained staff.展开更多
Prostate cancer poses a significant health challenge globally,demanding proactive prevention strategies.This editorial explores the emerging role of vitamin D in prostate cancer prevention.While traditionally associat...Prostate cancer poses a significant health challenge globally,demanding proactive prevention strategies.This editorial explores the emerging role of vitamin D in prostate cancer prevention.While traditionally associated with bone health,vitamin D is increasingly recognized for its broader impact on immune function,cellular signaling,and cancer prevention.Epidemiological studies suggest an intriguing link between vitamin D deficiency and elevated prostate cancer risk,particularly in regions with limited sunlight exposure.Mechanistically,vitamin D regulates cellular processes,inhibiting unchecked cancer cell growth and bols-tering immune surveillance.Personalized prevention strategies,considering individual factors,are deemed essential for harnessing the full potential of vitamin D.To unlock this potential,the future calls for robust research,public awareness campaigns,dietary improvements,and vigilant medical guidance.Collaborative efforts are poised to pave the way toward a future where vitamin D stands as a sentinel in prostate cancer prevention,ushering in hope and improved health for men worldwide.展开更多
This report provides an overall assessment of land fragmentation problems in East Africa. Many parts of East Africa have become highly fragmented, putting development systems and activities in these areas at risk of c...This report provides an overall assessment of land fragmentation problems in East Africa. Many parts of East Africa have become highly fragmented, putting development systems and activities in these areas at risk of complete collapse. Land fragmentation occurs when land gets converted for agriculture, industrialization, or urbanization, invaded by non-local plants, or enclosed for individual use and by subdividing farmlands into subsequent smaller units called parcels with varying average farm sizes. Fragmentation results from inappropriate agricultural development processes and ineffective land use planning that fails to recognize how farmland is used, and the importance of its interconnected areas. Insecurity of tenure and resource rights are key factors in making this possible. Land fragmentation is one of the key reasons why the ability of most resources in East Africa becomes scarcer, and those remaining become “privatized” by more powerful community members—keen to maintain their access to them. Such individualistic attitudes are new and disadvantage the poorest even further by affecting the traditional customary safety nets and agricultural outputs. Neither the government nor customary governance systems effectively protect resource access for the poorest. This review summary report identifies the key causes, measures, and implications, government interventions, and the common remedies to land fragmentation problems in the East African Countries of Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania including neighboring Ethiopia, and the Sudan. The findings indicated from 2005 to 2015, the population kept increasing for all the named countries in East Africa with Rwanda and Uganda having a substantial increase in population density. The study review further explores the trend in the performance of agriculture by average farm sizes within the intervals of five years by highlighting their strong linkages and found that the average farm size has declined drastically, especially for Kenya. This can only mean that small farms kept becoming smaller and smaller and that there were more small-scale farmers. The results further depicted that the major and commonly cultivated food crops among the East African countries include maize, sorghum, rice, cassava, sweet potatoes, bananas, Irish potatoes, beans, peas, etc., with maize yields (Mt/ha) in 2003 for Uganda being the highest (1.79 Mt/ha) and the lowest in Rwanda (0.77 Mt/ha) respectively. Therefore, from the review results, recommendations are being made as to how the negative impacts of land fragmentation on agricultural productivity can be reduced or mitigated. One way is by community sensitization and awareness about the importance of land consolidation and its proposition on farm productivity.展开更多
The study was conducted to determine the influence of gratering and fermentation parameters on the physicochemical quality of starch obtained from two cassava varieties in Sierra Leone (i.e., SLICASS 11 and SLICASS 6)...The study was conducted to determine the influence of gratering and fermentation parameters on the physicochemical quality of starch obtained from two cassava varieties in Sierra Leone (i.e., SLICASS 11 and SLICASS 6). Fresh cassava roots harvested from the Department of Agricultural Engineering were peeled, washed and grated before fermentation and starch extraction. Fermentation was carried out under separate aerobic and anaerobic conditions for a period of Seven days. Physicochemical analyses were conducted at the Postharvest Food and Bioprocess Engineering Laboratory of the Department of Agricultural and Bio-System Engineering, Njala University to determine the solubility, water absorption capacity and swelling power of starch extracts obtained from various experimental treatments. Fermentation method and duration had significant effects on the solubility, water absorption capacity (WAC) and swelling power (SP) of starch extracts. Maximum solubility and WAC were recorded on the fifth day, for both cassava varieties tested, with apparent significant difference resulting from the two gratering bands (i.e., with 1.5-inch nail hole and 4-inch nail hole sizes, respectively). While swelling power increased consistently with temperature for starch obtained from SLICASS-11 variety, an irregular pattern was observed for SLICASS-6 variety. A multiple correlation analysis proposes a significant and weak correlation between temperature, WAC (+0.150) and swelling power (+0.048). Also multiple correlation analyses suggest a significant correlation between fermentation period, the functional properties of starch extracts obtained from both fermentation methods and cassava varieties (i.e., solubility (−0.226), water absorption capacity (+0.301) and swelling power (+0.329)).展开更多
This research study explored the levels of base status metals in soil sediments and particulate matter in the wellington industrial estate location;the main objectives were to: 1) determine sodium and potassium, 2) de...This research study explored the levels of base status metals in soil sediments and particulate matter in the wellington industrial estate location;the main objectives were to: 1) determine sodium and potassium, 2) determine calcium and magnesium, 3) determine available iron. The following hypotheses were put forward;H<sub>0</sub><sub>a</sub>: there is no significant difference in the concentration levels between Ca and Mg in the study area, H<sub>1</sub><sub>a</sub>: there is significant difference in the concentration levels between Ca and Mg in the study area, H<sub>0</sub><sub>b</sub>: there is no significant difference in the concentration levels between Na and K in the study area, H<sub>1</sub><sub>b</sub>: there is significant difference in the concentration levels between Na and K in the study area. Six locations were used to collect samples with the aid of scoop and gravel free auger (at varying depths of 0 - 5 cm and 5 - 10 cm) which are Wellington Industrial Estate Area 1 (WIEL 1), (WIEL 2), (WIEL 3), (WIEL 4), (WIEL 5), (WIEL 6);the samples were given laboratory treatment. Flame photometer, EDTA, and Spectrophotometer were used in the determinations of sodium and potassium, calcium and magnesium, and available iron respectively. The results indicated that levels of potassium were in medium range (moderately high);sodium levels were generally low when compared to Brook’s classification table. Levels of calcium were generally low and those of magnesium were moderate based on Brook’s table of classification. Levels of available iron which fall within the range of Quijano-Guerta (2003) were high;this implies such levels can lead to toxicity. In all locations, there was decrease in the levels of each metal in the samples with (5 - 10 cm) depth.展开更多
Nitrate pollution is of great importance in both the environmental and health contexts, necessitating the development of efficient mitigation strategies. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the many catal...Nitrate pollution is of great importance in both the environmental and health contexts, necessitating the development of efficient mitigation strategies. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the many catalysts employed in the electrochemical reduction of nitrate to ammonia, and presents a viable environmentally friendly approach to address the issue of nitrate pollution. Hence, the electrochemical transformation of nitrate to ammonia serves the dual purpose of addressing nitrate pollution in water bodies, and is a useful agricultural resource. This review examines a range of catalyst materials such as noble and non-noble metals, metal oxides, carbon-based materials, nitrogen-doped carbon species, metal complexes, and semiconductor photocatalysts. It evaluates catalytic efficiency, selectivity, stability, and overall process optimization. The performance of catalysts is influenced by various factors, including reaction conditions, catalyst structure, loading techniques, and electrode interfaces. Comparative analysis was performed to evaluate the catalytic activity, selectivity, Faradaic efficiency, current density, stability, and durability of the catalysts. This assessment offers significant perspectives on the structural, compositional, and electrochemical characteristics that affect the efficacy of these catalysts, thus informing future investigations and advancements in this domain. In addition to mitigating nitrate pollution, the electrochemical reduction of nitrate to ammonia is in line with sustainable agricultural methods, resource conservation, and the utilization of renewable energy resources. This study explores the factors that affect the catalytic efficiency, provides new opportunities to address nitrate pollution, and promotes the development of sustainable environmental solutions.展开更多
Groundwater is increasingly being used due to its universal availability and generally good quality. However, the risk of contamination of groundwater due to various human activities such as mining is equally increasi...Groundwater is increasingly being used due to its universal availability and generally good quality. However, the risk of contamination of groundwater due to various human activities such as mining is equally increasing across the globe. In this study, the physical parameters of potable well waters in the key mining areas in Nimikoro and Tankoro Chiefdoms in Kono District were analyzed for compliance with drinking water quality standard. To do this, both unpurged and purged well water samples were collected once every month for a period of one year. Some of the well water properties like temperature, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and Electrical Conductivity (EC) were measured on site and others determined in the laboratory. The data collected from the laboratory analyses were statistically analyzed in MS Excel, SPSS and ArcGIS environments for quality trends in time-space fabric. The results showed that well water quality in the study area generally fell short of drinking water quality standards of Sierra Leone and WHO. There were high temperature and turbidity during the dry season and then high TDS and EC during the rainy season. Temperature and turbidity also significantly influenced well water quality in the study area, much more than TDS and EC. The implications for drinking water of lower quality than the standard could be huge for the local population and therefore needs the attention of stakeholders in the study area and decision makers in the country.展开更多
文摘Background: Surgical sponges are used in almost all surgeries in Liberia and around the world. They sometimes may inadvertently be left in the body following a surgery and are then referred to as gossypibomas or textiloma. Their presence can result in significant morbidity and even mortality for the patient, and unpleasant medicolegal consequences for the surgeon. This case is the first to be reported from Liberia. Case Presentation: A 43-year-old para 3, alive 3 Liberian lady, presented in our emergency room in acute urinary retention. Plain kidney, ureter and bladder X-rays showed an amorphous calcified object within the urinary bladder. Abdominal ultrasound scan revealed 7 cm × 5 cm bladder stone. She underwent open cystolithotomy, and a partially calcified gauze swab was recovered from the bladder. The patient was discharged after a smooth post-operative period and follow-up cystoscopy showed no intravesical abnormality. Conclusion: Gossypiboma or textiloma is apparently very rare in Liberia, as there is no mention of its occurrence in academic literature from Liberia. The presence of any foreign body in the bladder can potentiate the formation of a calculus. Radiological findings are variable and non-specific, thus increasing the risk of a missed diagnosis. The morbidity associated with this condition and the possibility of medico-legal liability make prevention of this condition imperative.
文摘Liberia holds 44.5% of the remaining portion of the Upper Guinean Rainforest in West Africa,which is home to critically endangered forest elephants and western chimpanzees.The forests are of vital importance for the livelihoods of millions of West Africans and provide key ecosystem services of local and global importance for food systems transformation and agroecology.Liberia’s efforts toward land reform through legislation and policies recognise communities’rights to own and manage their customary lands and resources.These include the National Forestry Reform Law of 2006,the Community Rights Law Concerning Forest Lands of 2009,and the Land Rights Act of 2018,and more.In May 2022,a program team from the Sustainable Development Institute(SDI)-Friends of the Earth Liberia researched the social and environmental impacts of Maryland Oil Palm Plantations(MOPPs)in Liberia.Twenty-three(23)key informant interviews(KIIs)and 10 focus group discussions(FGDs)were conducted in seven communities in and around the MOPP.They included farmers,contract workers,MOPP staff,local authorities,women and youth leaders,the Environmental Protection Agency(EPA)Inspector,the Civil Society Head,and the Gender Coordinator of Maryland County.The team cross-checked information with formal documents as much as possible and took photographs and global positioning system(GPS)locations of areas of deforestation,pollution,and conflict.The team also used observation to monitor environmental pollution,such as affluent into water bodies and planting oil palm in wetlands.The team used narrative analysis and geospatial landscape analysis to analyze the data.The research finds that land conflict and deforestation have several negative impacts on communities.MOPP has not respected land tenure rights or followed Free Prior and Informed Consent(FPIC)standards,including resettlement without reparation and destruction of farms and old towns without(sufficient)compensation or restitution.During MOPP land acquisition and clearance,communities experienced the loss of their farms and the identification of villages as“village de squatters”,leading to restricted access to farmland,heightened food insecurity,and reduced income from cash crops to support families.MOPP destroyed high conservation value areas and destroyed secondary forest regrowth,which affected important biodiversity areas.MOPP is one of the four large-scale industrial palm oil plantations in Liberia in Maryland County.It has a palm oil mill in a joint venture with Golden Veroleum Liberia(GVL).Its 2011 concession agreement includes 8,800 hectares for industrial palm oil plantations.
文摘Reports and claims have been made reflecting opinions of the environmental impacts of the Whein Town Landfill Facility on the residents of the Whein Town Community. This study seeks to examine the environmental effects of the Whein Town Landfill on nearby residents, and the effectiveness of the existing mitigation schemes. This cross-sectional study used 4-point-Likert and 2-point-dichotomous scales questionnaires to collect information from 352 Whein Town community household heads. The findings reveal that “odorous emissions” represent the most critical environmental challenge, severely impacting residents’ well-being and quality of life. By contrast, “garbage spillage along routes” has a minimal impact on residents’ lives, with many residents rating it as “Not Serious”. Six out of eight mitigation implemented schemes achieved a success rate below 25%, one performed at approximately 50%, and only one scheme—the landfill fencing—was effectively implemented, reaching a near-perfect success rate of 99.99%. Therefore, residents of Whein Town are experiencing adverse environmental effects that can be remediated with proper planning and the implementation of existing schemes.
文摘<strong>Background:</strong> The prevalence of transfusion associated hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection differs across different population geographically. Ascertaining the seroprevalence of HBV infection is vital to informing the way of precautionary and control strategies. This study sought to establish the seroprevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBVsAg) among blood donors in Yelewonyan Memorial Hospital Lofa, Liberia. <strong>Methods:</strong> This was a retrospective study which involved reviewing of blood donation records for the year 2020 at Telewonyan Memorial Hospital in Lofa County. The data obtained from the records were analyzed. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 12 for windows.<strong> Results: </strong>A total of 584 voluntary blood donors were screened for donation in 2020. Out of 584, 554 (95.9%) were males while the rest were females. Prevalence of 3.3% was observed among blood donors in Telewonyan Memorial Hospital. There is a significant difference between gender and age with HBV seropositivity among blood donors. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> The findings of this study suggest that the study site is of low endemicity with HBV infection. Usually, males are more probably to be HBVsAg seropositive than their female’s counterpart. Planning more extensive study and educational programs would help minimize the spread of HBV infection among the general population.
文摘The success of any waste management system requires accurate and up-to-date </span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">data on quantity, composition of waste. Waste generation data from household are needed to address issues relating to municipal solid wastes such as management method, performance improvement, policy, regional and local planning, administrative, cost accounting, design and operation of landfill facilities and environmental quality. This study was conducted to provide empirical data on generation rates, quantity and composition, management practices, challenges and strategies from urban household. Waste collection, weighing, questionnaires survey and field observation were methods used during the study. Waste was collected and weighed from 60 households using multi-stage sampling technique for seven days. Questionnaires were analyzed </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">using </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20 and Excel. </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">A total of 1125.2 kg of waste was recorded. </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">The average household waste generation was 3 kg per day with per capita generation rate of 0.41 kg/cap/day. The compositional analysis showed that Organic (53%), Plastic (11%), Textile (6%), Metal (2%), Glass (1%), Paper and Cardboard 4% and others (22%). Solid waste management practices are very rudimentary. Burning (53.7%) and Open Dumping (30%) were found to be the most commonly used method of disposal with very limited collection service (33.3%) and segregation. The most challenges faced by households were communal disposal area (66.7%) and waste service providers (21.7%) storage bins (11.6%). Waste to energy (48.3%) and compositing (23.3%) were the most considered option for waste management by the respondents.
文摘Background: The incidence of posterior gastric perforation worldwide is low;the literature has no previous record of its occurrence in Liberia. The diffuse symptoms of a perforated posterior gastric ulcer, delay by patients before they present to hospital, and the lack of skilled personnel and facilities in Liberia to diagnose and treat this condition increase the mortality associated with posterior gastric perforation. Objective: To report the first case of posterior gastric perforation encountered in Liberia. Materials and Method: Case report. Case Presentation/Report: A 44 year old male was referred to John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital (Liberia’s principal teaching hospital) with a diagnosis of gastritis after six days of worsening epigastric pain. He had a history of NSAID use for a chronic leg and foot ulcer. Physical examination revealed a moderately distended, markedly tender abdomen characterized by guarding, rigidity and low-pitched bowel sounds. Patient was resuscitated with intravenous fluids, antibiotics and analgesics. An emergency exploratory laparotomy subsequently performed revealed a large collection of purulent peritoneal fluid, a 3 × 4 cm perforation on the posterior wall of the stomach and a 3 × 2.5 cm perforation of the transverse mesocolon. The perforations were repaired and the patient recovered satisfactorily. Conclusion: Though relatively rare and associated with a high morbidity and mortality, this case report shows that the paucity of reported cases of posterior gastric perforation may also be attributable to lack of specialist staff with capacity for clinical diagnosis and surgical intervention in a resource poor setting. Identifying patients with gastric perforation and having the skill to repair the perforations significantly enhance the clinical outcome.
文摘Background: Penile cancer is uncommon in Liberia with no record of its occurrence so far in the literature. Its occurrence worldwide is significantly affected by cultural or religious practices like childhood circumcision. Smoking, poor penile hygiene and inflammatory processes in the presence of smegma increase the risk of its occurrence. Objective: To review the first case of penile cancer treated in Liberia. Materials and Method: Case report. Case Presentation/Report: Our index patient is a 65-year old man referred from a peripheral centre in acute urinary retention. He also presented with a year history of progressively expanding ulcerative penile lesion affecting the glans and penile shaft. Local examination of the genitalia revealed an ulcerated lesion extending from the glans up to the mid shaft of the penis. The penobulbar urethra was free of induration. The external urethral meatus was infiltrated by the lesion. The scrotum and testes were normal and digital rectal examination revealed a moderately enlarged benign prostate. Bilateral inguinal lymph node enlargement was elicited. A diagnosis of advanced penile cancer with benign prostatic hyperplasia was made. The patient had partial penectomy, reconstruction of new external urethral meatus and inguinal lymphadenectomy. The specimen was histologically confirmed to be Squamous cell Carcinoma of the penis;the resection margins and lymph nodes biopsied were found to be adequate and tumor free respectively. Patient’s post operative recovery was uneventful and he was discharged after a week. His follow up status after 6 months has remained satisfactory. Conclusion: Though rare, penile cancer does occur in Liberia and specialist staff with capacity for diagnosing and surgical intervention remains critical to patients’ outcome. Early intervention improves the chances of better outcome;counseling is critical to prevent treated patient lapsing into depression.
文摘Small-scale fisheries,particularly those targeting small pelagic fish,are a vital sector in Liberia,providing essential food for the local population and generating income for livelihoods.Sardinella maderensis,predominantly caught by motorized canoes using gill nets and seine nets,is the primary species in these fisheries.To establish management target reference points for the S.maderensis fishery,this study applied the Schaefer production model to aggregated and disaggregated catch and effort data collected by Liberia's National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority(NaFAA)from 2018 to 2022.The findings indicate that,in both the aggregated and disaggregated models,the current(2022)fishing effort exceeds the MEY level,leading to diminishing economic returns and approaching economic overfishing thresholds.The economic reference points,MEY and EMEY,were estimated to be 3%and 19%lower in the aggregated model,and 30%and 44%lower in the disaggregated model,compared to the current(2022)catch and relative fishing effort.This situation arises when the cost of fishing exceeds the price of fish,driven by inefficient and ineffective fishing boats,which leads to high unit costs of effort compared to unit revenue.To fully realize the potential of the S.maderensis fishery,this study recommends a combination of input and output control management strategies,the adoption of more efficient fishing technologies,and the provision of alternative livelihoods for coastal communities.
文摘China’s commitment to modernising Liberia’s health care facilities brings benefits.When 32-year-old Martha Kollie arrived at the newly established China-aid National Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Laboratory in the Liberian capital of Monrovia,she was unsure if she would receive the medical care she desperately needed.
文摘This article describes a pilot study aiming at generating social interactions between a humanoid robot and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), through the practice of a gesture imitation game. The participants were a 17-year-old young lady with ASD and intellectual deficit, and a control participant: a preadolescent with ASD but no intellectual deficit (Asperger syndrome). The game is comprised of four phases: greetings, pairing, imitation, and closing. Field educators were involved, playing specific roles: visual or physical inciter. The use of a robot allows for catching the participants’ attention, playing the imitation game for a longer period of time than with a human partner, and preventing the game partner’s negative facial expressions resulting from tiredness, impatience, or boredom. The participants’ behavior was observed in terms of initial approach towards the robot, positioning relative to the robot in terms of distance and orientation, reactions to the robot’s voice or moves, signs of happiness, and imitation attempts. Results suggest a more and more natural approach towards the robot during the sessions, as well as a higher level of social interaction, based on the variations of the parameters listed above. We use these preliminary results to draw the next steps of our research work as well as identify further perspectives, with this aim in mind: improving social interactions with adolescents with ASD and intellectual deficit, allowing for better integration of these people into our societies.
基金the Deanship of Scientific Research at King Khalid University for funding this work through a large group Research Project under grant(RGP2/111/45)。
文摘Hexaferrites'magnetic and structural properties are highly sensitive to changes in sintering temperature and cationic replacements.We fabricated Ca_(0.5)Cu_(0.5)Fe_(12-x)DyxO_(19)hexaferrites using the sol-gel technique.We examined the phase,microstructure and magnetic aspects of the samples with respect to varying doping of rare earth dysprosium.The results show the expansion in the lattice upon incorporation of dysprosium against iron.Morphological studies confirm the uniform distribution of particles with slightly longitudinal nanoflakes in one direction.Magnetic investigations show an increase in magnetic saturation(Ms)with increasing dysprosium incorporation till optimum level is achieved for 15%doping concentration,with negligible change for maximum doping level.Furthermore,coercivity(Hc)and magnetic moment(mB)in terms of Bohr's magneton(μB)also show an increasing trend with dysprosium substitution levels.The maximum saturation magnetization of 33.355 emu/g is achieved with magnetic remanence of 18.290 emu/g,along with optimum magnetic moment of 6.249μB.In addition to the traditional magnetic parameters,magnetic anisotropy parameters were explored for the deep insights into magnetic parameters.These outcomes suggest that improved magnetic properties of Ca_(0.5)Cu_(0.5)Fe_(12-x)DyxO_(19)ferrites make it good substitute for storage devices,magnetic filters,and other magnetic applications.
基金CNTD(Formerly FPSU)and the Liberian NTD programme are both supported by UKAid-DFID.
文摘It is widely known that the recent Ebola Virus Disease(EVD)in West Africa caused a serious disruption to the national health system,with many of ongoing disease focused programmes,such as mass drug administration(MDA)for onchocerciasis(ONC),lymphatic filariasis(LF)and schistosomiasis(SCH),being suspended or scaled-down.As these MDA programmes attempt to restart post-EVD it is important to understand the challenges that may be encountered.This commentary addresses the opinions of the major health sectors involved,as well as those of community members,regarding logistic needs and challenges faced as these important public health programmes consider restarting.There appears to be a strong desire by the communities to resume NTD programme activities,although it is clear that some important challenges remain,the most prominent being those resulting from the severe loss of trained staff.
文摘Prostate cancer poses a significant health challenge globally,demanding proactive prevention strategies.This editorial explores the emerging role of vitamin D in prostate cancer prevention.While traditionally associated with bone health,vitamin D is increasingly recognized for its broader impact on immune function,cellular signaling,and cancer prevention.Epidemiological studies suggest an intriguing link between vitamin D deficiency and elevated prostate cancer risk,particularly in regions with limited sunlight exposure.Mechanistically,vitamin D regulates cellular processes,inhibiting unchecked cancer cell growth and bols-tering immune surveillance.Personalized prevention strategies,considering individual factors,are deemed essential for harnessing the full potential of vitamin D.To unlock this potential,the future calls for robust research,public awareness campaigns,dietary improvements,and vigilant medical guidance.Collaborative efforts are poised to pave the way toward a future where vitamin D stands as a sentinel in prostate cancer prevention,ushering in hope and improved health for men worldwide.
文摘This report provides an overall assessment of land fragmentation problems in East Africa. Many parts of East Africa have become highly fragmented, putting development systems and activities in these areas at risk of complete collapse. Land fragmentation occurs when land gets converted for agriculture, industrialization, or urbanization, invaded by non-local plants, or enclosed for individual use and by subdividing farmlands into subsequent smaller units called parcels with varying average farm sizes. Fragmentation results from inappropriate agricultural development processes and ineffective land use planning that fails to recognize how farmland is used, and the importance of its interconnected areas. Insecurity of tenure and resource rights are key factors in making this possible. Land fragmentation is one of the key reasons why the ability of most resources in East Africa becomes scarcer, and those remaining become “privatized” by more powerful community members—keen to maintain their access to them. Such individualistic attitudes are new and disadvantage the poorest even further by affecting the traditional customary safety nets and agricultural outputs. Neither the government nor customary governance systems effectively protect resource access for the poorest. This review summary report identifies the key causes, measures, and implications, government interventions, and the common remedies to land fragmentation problems in the East African Countries of Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania including neighboring Ethiopia, and the Sudan. The findings indicated from 2005 to 2015, the population kept increasing for all the named countries in East Africa with Rwanda and Uganda having a substantial increase in population density. The study review further explores the trend in the performance of agriculture by average farm sizes within the intervals of five years by highlighting their strong linkages and found that the average farm size has declined drastically, especially for Kenya. This can only mean that small farms kept becoming smaller and smaller and that there were more small-scale farmers. The results further depicted that the major and commonly cultivated food crops among the East African countries include maize, sorghum, rice, cassava, sweet potatoes, bananas, Irish potatoes, beans, peas, etc., with maize yields (Mt/ha) in 2003 for Uganda being the highest (1.79 Mt/ha) and the lowest in Rwanda (0.77 Mt/ha) respectively. Therefore, from the review results, recommendations are being made as to how the negative impacts of land fragmentation on agricultural productivity can be reduced or mitigated. One way is by community sensitization and awareness about the importance of land consolidation and its proposition on farm productivity.
文摘The study was conducted to determine the influence of gratering and fermentation parameters on the physicochemical quality of starch obtained from two cassava varieties in Sierra Leone (i.e., SLICASS 11 and SLICASS 6). Fresh cassava roots harvested from the Department of Agricultural Engineering were peeled, washed and grated before fermentation and starch extraction. Fermentation was carried out under separate aerobic and anaerobic conditions for a period of Seven days. Physicochemical analyses were conducted at the Postharvest Food and Bioprocess Engineering Laboratory of the Department of Agricultural and Bio-System Engineering, Njala University to determine the solubility, water absorption capacity and swelling power of starch extracts obtained from various experimental treatments. Fermentation method and duration had significant effects on the solubility, water absorption capacity (WAC) and swelling power (SP) of starch extracts. Maximum solubility and WAC were recorded on the fifth day, for both cassava varieties tested, with apparent significant difference resulting from the two gratering bands (i.e., with 1.5-inch nail hole and 4-inch nail hole sizes, respectively). While swelling power increased consistently with temperature for starch obtained from SLICASS-11 variety, an irregular pattern was observed for SLICASS-6 variety. A multiple correlation analysis proposes a significant and weak correlation between temperature, WAC (+0.150) and swelling power (+0.048). Also multiple correlation analyses suggest a significant correlation between fermentation period, the functional properties of starch extracts obtained from both fermentation methods and cassava varieties (i.e., solubility (−0.226), water absorption capacity (+0.301) and swelling power (+0.329)).
文摘This research study explored the levels of base status metals in soil sediments and particulate matter in the wellington industrial estate location;the main objectives were to: 1) determine sodium and potassium, 2) determine calcium and magnesium, 3) determine available iron. The following hypotheses were put forward;H<sub>0</sub><sub>a</sub>: there is no significant difference in the concentration levels between Ca and Mg in the study area, H<sub>1</sub><sub>a</sub>: there is significant difference in the concentration levels between Ca and Mg in the study area, H<sub>0</sub><sub>b</sub>: there is no significant difference in the concentration levels between Na and K in the study area, H<sub>1</sub><sub>b</sub>: there is significant difference in the concentration levels between Na and K in the study area. Six locations were used to collect samples with the aid of scoop and gravel free auger (at varying depths of 0 - 5 cm and 5 - 10 cm) which are Wellington Industrial Estate Area 1 (WIEL 1), (WIEL 2), (WIEL 3), (WIEL 4), (WIEL 5), (WIEL 6);the samples were given laboratory treatment. Flame photometer, EDTA, and Spectrophotometer were used in the determinations of sodium and potassium, calcium and magnesium, and available iron respectively. The results indicated that levels of potassium were in medium range (moderately high);sodium levels were generally low when compared to Brook’s classification table. Levels of calcium were generally low and those of magnesium were moderate based on Brook’s table of classification. Levels of available iron which fall within the range of Quijano-Guerta (2003) were high;this implies such levels can lead to toxicity. In all locations, there was decrease in the levels of each metal in the samples with (5 - 10 cm) depth.
文摘Nitrate pollution is of great importance in both the environmental and health contexts, necessitating the development of efficient mitigation strategies. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the many catalysts employed in the electrochemical reduction of nitrate to ammonia, and presents a viable environmentally friendly approach to address the issue of nitrate pollution. Hence, the electrochemical transformation of nitrate to ammonia serves the dual purpose of addressing nitrate pollution in water bodies, and is a useful agricultural resource. This review examines a range of catalyst materials such as noble and non-noble metals, metal oxides, carbon-based materials, nitrogen-doped carbon species, metal complexes, and semiconductor photocatalysts. It evaluates catalytic efficiency, selectivity, stability, and overall process optimization. The performance of catalysts is influenced by various factors, including reaction conditions, catalyst structure, loading techniques, and electrode interfaces. Comparative analysis was performed to evaluate the catalytic activity, selectivity, Faradaic efficiency, current density, stability, and durability of the catalysts. This assessment offers significant perspectives on the structural, compositional, and electrochemical characteristics that affect the efficacy of these catalysts, thus informing future investigations and advancements in this domain. In addition to mitigating nitrate pollution, the electrochemical reduction of nitrate to ammonia is in line with sustainable agricultural methods, resource conservation, and the utilization of renewable energy resources. This study explores the factors that affect the catalytic efficiency, provides new opportunities to address nitrate pollution, and promotes the development of sustainable environmental solutions.
文摘Groundwater is increasingly being used due to its universal availability and generally good quality. However, the risk of contamination of groundwater due to various human activities such as mining is equally increasing across the globe. In this study, the physical parameters of potable well waters in the key mining areas in Nimikoro and Tankoro Chiefdoms in Kono District were analyzed for compliance with drinking water quality standard. To do this, both unpurged and purged well water samples were collected once every month for a period of one year. Some of the well water properties like temperature, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and Electrical Conductivity (EC) were measured on site and others determined in the laboratory. The data collected from the laboratory analyses were statistically analyzed in MS Excel, SPSS and ArcGIS environments for quality trends in time-space fabric. The results showed that well water quality in the study area generally fell short of drinking water quality standards of Sierra Leone and WHO. There were high temperature and turbidity during the dry season and then high TDS and EC during the rainy season. Temperature and turbidity also significantly influenced well water quality in the study area, much more than TDS and EC. The implications for drinking water of lower quality than the standard could be huge for the local population and therefore needs the attention of stakeholders in the study area and decision makers in the country.
