Ife

enUK

Ife

(ē`fā), city (1991 est. pop. 262,000), SW Nigeria. Located in a farm region, the city is an important center for marketing and shipping cacao. According to tradition, Ife is the oldest YorubaYoruba
, people of SW Nigeria and Benin, numbering about 20 million. Today many of the large cities in Nigeria (including Lagos, Ibadan, and Abeokuta) are in Yorubaland.
..... Click the link for more information. town (founded c.1300). All Yoruba chiefs trace their descent from the first mythological ruler of Ife, Oduduwa, and they regard the reigning oni (king) of Ife as their ritual superior. Ife was the most powerful Yoruba kingdom until the late 17th cent., when OyoOyo
, city (1991 est. pop. 226,700), SW Nigeria. It is primarily a farming town, producing tobacco, yams, and cassava. Traditional artisans make textiles and leather goods and carve utensils from shells of the calabash gourd. Oyo was founded c.
..... Click the link for more information. surpassed it. Terra-cottaterra-cotta
[Ital.,=baked earth], form of hard-baked pottery, widely used in the decorative arts, especially as an architectural material, either in its natural red-brown color, or painted, or with a baked glaze.
..... Click the link for more information. and naturalistic bronze sculptures made in the area as early as the 12th cent. are considered among the finest works of West African art; some are displayed in the Ife Museum. The Univ. of Ife is in the city, which is sometimes called Ile-Ife [old Ife].

Ife (Nigeria)

(religion, spiritualism, and occult)

Ife (aka Ilé Ife), an ancient city in southwest Nigeria, is believed by the Yoruba people of Nigeria as the place where creation occurred. The orisha Olodumare, the Supreme God (the one who has the fullness of everything), gave certain materials to his emissary (or perhaps son), the orisha Oduduwa. He brought these to the place known now as Ife and used them to create the earth, separating the land from the water. Archeologists have suggested the city is at least a thousand years old, and the region inhabited for another thousand years.

The Yoruba were divided into various groups, each with royal leadership. The royal families believe they have descended from the first king of Ife, Oduduwa. After Oduduwa’s death, his children left the city to found their own kingdoms. Oduduwa is believed to have had sixteen sons, who later became powerful traditional rulers of Yoruba land.

Through the centuries, Ife existed as a city state whose paramount importance was its role as the original sacred city and the dispenser of basic religious thought, including the divining technique known as Ifa, an indispensable tool in defining the course of one’s life. At Ife one finds the acknowledgment of a basic pantheon of Yoruba gods, or orisha, estimated variously to number 201, 401, 601, or more. Some divinities are said to have existed when Oduduwa created the earth, while others are outstanding individuals who have been deified. Among the more popular deities are Shango (god of thunder and lightning), Ifa (or Orunmila, god of divination), and Ogun (god of iron and of war). These deities have been brought to the Americas by the practitioners of Santeria.

The old Yoruba kingdoms have been superseded by modern Nigeria, but the royal leadership persists at a less formal level. The kings of the Oni people of Ife and the Alafin people of Oyo, further to the north, are still the most highly respected Yoruba kings and religious leaders in Nigeria. Ife is home to the palace of the Oni.

Ife was destroyed in 1849 and rebuilt in 1882. Today, approximately 300,000 people live in Ife.

Sources:

Abimbola, Wande, ed. Yoruba Oral Tradition. With a contribution by Rowland Abiodun. Ile-Ife, Nigeria: Department of African Languages and Literature, University of Ile-Ife, 1975.Bascom, William. Ifa Divination: Communication between Gods and Men in West Africa. Bloomington and London: Indiana University Press. 1969.Dennett, Richard Edward. Nigerian Studies; or, The Religious and Political System of the Yoruba. London: Cass, 1968.Forde, Cyril Daryll. The Yoruba-speaking Peoples of Southwestern Nigeria. London, International African Institute, 1962.

Ife

a city in Nigeria, in the Western State. Population, 154, 600 (1970). Highway junction and center of the cocoa industry. It is the site of a university, founded in 1961, and of the Ife Museum. Gold is mined near the city.

Ife is one of the most important centers of ancient civilization in West Africa. From the 12th century to the 19th, Ife was the city-state of the Yoruba people. The Yorubas still revere Ife as their ancestral homeland. The city has been studied since 1908, and systematic excavation began in 1953.

The flowering of Ife’s artistic culture, apparently related to the earlier Nok culture, occurred between the 12th and 14th centuries. The bronze and terracotta sculpture found in the city has become famous throughout the world. The terra-cotta heads, which were placed on sacrificial altars, are outstanding for the perfection and beauty of their forms. The softly modeled faces have an unusual delicacy of textural nuances. The bronze heads depicting gods and rulers are executed on a relatively large scale and employ a simplified stylization. The elaborate headdresses and facial markings impart a certain decorative quality. Equally striking are the bronze half-figures, apparently of the kings of Ife, in which elastic plasticity and harmonious proportions combine with a wealth of ornamental decoration. The rich and varied plastic forms (gods of the Yoruba pantheon and deified kings, called oni) created by the anonymous artists of Ife, were apparently used in sacrificial ceremonies in honor of the Yorubas’ ancestors. Ife’s bronze sculpture greatly influenced the development of Benin’s artistic culture. Certain stone relics date from an earlier period, such as the 5.16-m granite pillar called Opa Oranyan (Staff of Oranyan, a mighty warrior and the son of the founder of Ife, Oduduwa).

REFERENCES

Ol’derogge, D. A. Iskusstvo narodov Zapadnoi Afriki v muzeiakh SSSR. Leningrad-Moscow, 1958.
Frobenius, L. The Voice of Africa, vols. 1–2. London, 1913.
An Introduction to the Art of Ife. Lagos, 1955.
Willett, F. “Ife and Its Archaeology.” Journal of African History, 1960, vol. 1, no. 2, pp. 231–48.
Willett, F. Ife in the History of West African Sculpture. [London, 1967.]

Ife

a town in W central Nigeria: one of the largest and oldest Yoruba towns; university (1961); centre of the cocoa trade. Pop.: 229 000 (2005 est.)

IFE

Immunofixation electrophoresis, see there.

Immunofixation Electrophoresis, Blood and Urine

Synonym/acronym: IFE.

Common use

To identify the individual types of immunoglobulins, toward diagnosing diseases such as multiple myeloma, and to evaluate effectiveness of chemotherapy.

Specimen

Serum (1 mL) collected in a gold-, red-, or red/gray-top tube. Place separated serum in a standard transport tube within 2 hr of collection. Urine (10 mL) from a random or timed collection in a clean plastic container.

Normal findings

(Method: Immunoprecipitation combined with electrophoresis) Test results are interpreted by a pathologist. Normal placement and intensity of staining provide information about the immunoglobulin bands.

Description

Immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE) is a qualitative technique that provides a detailed separation of individual immunoglobulins according to their electrical charges followed by the application of specific antiserum (anti-IgM, anti kappa, etc.) and a stain, to help visualize the patterns. It is usually requested when there is an abnormality in the gamma globulin fraction of a serum protein electrophoresis; either monoclonal or polyclonal. IFE is frequently used to identify the three main immunoglobulin groups (IgG, IgM, and IgA) and the light chain proteins (kappa and lambda). Antisera for IgE and IgD are available for use, if indicated. Abnormalities are revealed by changes produced in the individual bands, such as displacement compared to a normal pattern, intense color which reflects an increase, or absence of color which reflects a decrease. Urine IFE has replaced the Bence Jones screening test for light chains. IFE has replaced immunoelectrophoresis because it is more sensitive and easier to interpret. IFE is used to help detect, diagnose, and monitor the course and treatment of conditions like kidney disease, multiple myeloma and Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia.

This procedure is contraindicated for

N/A

Indications

Assist in the diagnosis of multiple myeloma and amyloidosis
Assist in the diagnosis of suspected immunodeficiency
Assist in the diagnosis of suspected immunoproliferative disorders, such as multiple myeloma and Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia
Identify biclonal or monoclonal gammopathies
Identify cryoglobulinemia
Monitor the effectiveness of chemotherapy or radiation therapy

Potential diagnosis

See the “Immunoglobulins A, D, G, and M” and “Protein, total and fractions” studies.

Critical findings

N/A

Interfering factors

Drugs that may increase immunoglobulin levels include asparaginase, cimetidine, and narcotics.
Drugs that may decrease immunoglobulin levels include dextran, oral contraceptives, methylprednisolone (high doses), and phenytoin.
Chemotherapy and radiation treatments may alter the width of the bands and make interpretation difficult.

Nursing Implications and Procedure

Potential nursing problems

Problem	Signs & Symptoms	Interventions
Powerlessness (Related chronic illness; treatment for illness; loss of ability to provide self-care; progressive debilitation; terminal prognosis)	Expression of loss of control over situation, self, outcome of disease; passive; apathetic; submissive; decreased participation in self-care; reluctant to express feelings	Assess need to be in control; assess feelings of hopelessness, depression, apathy; assist to identify situations that contribute to a feeling of powerlessness; assess the impact of the sense of powerlessness on the patient’s sense of self; encourage verbalization of feelings; discuss therapeutic options offered by health-care provider (HCP); assist to identify strengths; identify coping strategies; encourage being responsible for self-care and personal environment to increase sense of control; give positive feedback
Hopelessness (Related to chronic illness; impaired functionality; prolonged pain and discomfort)	Decreased affect; decreased response to stimuli; feeling of emptiness; alterations in sleep patterns and appetite; expressions of apathy; withdrawn; states life has no meaning	Assess role of illness in relation to expressions of helplessness; assess grooming (energy to provide good personal hygiene); assess level of appetite; assess verbalization of helplessness; provide opportunities to express feelings in a safe environment; support development of a trusting relationship to decrease feelings of isolation; encourage verbalization of personal strengths and weaknesses; encourage realistic hope; assist in identification of coping skills
Mobility (Related to pain; weakness; depression; fatigue; decreased muscle strength; decreased coordination)	Decreased purposeful movement; difficulty completing activities of daily living; limited range of motion; reluctance to move; pain	Assess the patient’s ability to perform independent range-of-motion exercises; encourage performance of range-of-motion exercises; encourage and assist in moving every 2 hr to relieve tissue pressure; assist with activities of daily living; encourage use of assistive devices as needed to support mobility
Protection (Related to failure of bone marrow; replacement of bone marrow by neoplastic cells; insufficient autoimmune response; chemotherapy; bone marrow transplant)	Bleeding; infection; anemia	Monitor and trend HGB/HCT; monitor and trend platelets and red blood cells (RBCs); monitor for symptoms of infection; take temperature every 4 hr; institute bleeding precautions, soft toothbrushes, avoid aspirin, avoid IM or IV injections, coordinate laboratory draws to minimize venipuncture; administer prescribed steroids, erythropoietin; administer prescribed blood and blood products; avoid at-risk activities that could cause trauma; discuss exposure to microbes that could result in infection

Pretest

Positively identify the patient using at least two unique identifiers before providing care, treatment, or services.
Patient Teaching: Inform the patient this test can assist in assessing the immune system.
Obtain a history of the patient’s complaints, including a list of known allergens, especially allergies or sensitivities to latex.
Obtain a history of the patient’s hematopoietic and immune systems, symptoms, and results of previously performed laboratory tests and diagnostic and surgical procedures.
Note any recent procedures that can interfere with test results. Assess whether the patient received any vaccinations or immunizations within the last 6 mo or any blood or blood components within the last 6 wk.
Obtain a list of the patient’s current medications, including herbs, nutritional supplements, and nutraceuticals (see Effects of Natural Products on Laboratory Values online at DavisPlus).
Review the procedure with the patient. Inform the patient that specimen collection takes approximately 5 to 10 min. Address concerns about pain and explain that there may be some discomfort during the venipuncture.
Provide a nonmetallic urinal, bedpan, or toilet-mounted collection device.
Note that usually a 24-hr time frame for urine collection is ordered. Inform the patient that all urine must be saved during that 24-hr period. Instruct the patient not to void directly into the laboratory collection container. Instruct the patient to avoid defecating in the collection device and to keep toilet tissue out of the collection device to prevent contamination of the specimen. Place a sign in the bathroom to remind the patient to save all urine.
Instruct the patient to void all urine into the collection device and then to pour the urine into the laboratory collection container. Alternatively the specimen can be left in the collection device for a health-care staff member to add to the laboratory collection container.
Sensitivity to social and cultural issues, as well as concern for modesty, is important in providing psychological support before, during, and after the procedure.
Note that there are no food, fluid, or medication restrictions unless by medical direction.

Intratest

Potential complications: N/A
Avoid the use of equipment containing latex if the patient has a history of allergic reaction to latex.
Instruct the patient to cooperate fully and to follow directions. Direct the patient to breathe normally and to avoid unnecessary movement.
Observe standard precautions, and follow the general guidelines in Patient Preparation and Specimen Collection. Positively identify the patient, and label the appropriate specimen container with the corresponding patient demographics, initials of the person collecting the specimen, date, and time of collection. Perform a venipuncture as appropriate.

Blood

Perform a venipuncture.
Remove the needle and apply direct pressure with dry gauze to stop bleeding. Observe/assess venipuncture site for bleeding or hematoma formation and secure gauze with adhesive bandage.

Urine

Clean-Catch Specimen
Instruct the male patient to (1) thoroughly wash his hands, (2) cleanse the meatus, (3) void a small amount into the toilet, and (4) void directly into the specimen container.
Instruct the female patient to (1) thoroughly wash her hands; (2) cleanse the labia from front to back; (3) while keeping the labia separated, void a small amount into the toilet; and (4) without interrupting the urine stream, void directly into the specimen container.

Blood or Urine

Promptly transport the specimen to the laboratory for processing and analysis.

Post-Test

Inform the patient that a report of the results will be made available to the requesting health-care provider (HCP), who will discuss the results with the patient.
Depending on the results of this procedure, additional testing may be performed to evaluate or monitor progression of the disease process and determine the need for a change in therapy. Evaluate test results in relation to the patient’s symptoms and other tests performed.
Patient Education
- Reinforce information given by the patient’s HCP regarding further testing, treatment, or referral to another HCP.
- Answer any questions or address any concerns voiced by the patient or family.
- Provide contact information for support groups.
Expected Patient Outcomes
- Knowledge
- States understanding of the importance of ambulation to prevent demineralization and support bone health
- States understanding of the importance of using assistive devices to support mobility and decrease injury risk.
- Skills
- Strictly avoids at-risk activities that could result in trauma and bleeding
- Makes dietary selections that include omitting fresh fruit to decrease exposure to bacteria
- Attitude
- Adheres to recommended therapeutic regime
- Makes a positive effort to address feelings of hopelessness and powerlessness

Related Monographs

Related tests include anion gap, biopsy bone, biopsy bone marrow, biopsy liver, biopsy lymph node, cold agglutinin, CBC, CBC WBC count and differential, cryoglobulin, ESR, fibrinogen, quantitative immunoglobulin levels, LAP, liver and spleen scan, β-2-microglobulin, platelet antibodies, protein total and fractions, and UA.
Refer to the Hematopoietic and Immune systems tables at the end of the book for related tests by body system.

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