bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
L’évolution historique de la notion de vertu dans la tradition philosophique
Authors: Gallagher Peter
Published: March 2021

La discussion philosophique sur les vertus, commencée dans l’Antiquité, se poursuit aujourd’hui. Les listes de vertus se sont allongées. L’excellence humaine a des manifestations générales et aussi certaines qui sont propres aux cultures. Le raisonnement pratique sur les vertus inclut désormais plus d’éléments. Aristote pensait qu’en utilisant habituellement la phronesis les gens de bon caractère atteindraient le bonheur. Plus tard, Kant a considéré que les vertus étaient le moyen par lequel la volonté surmonte les tentations de ne pas faire son devoir. Au cours du dernier demi-siècle, à partir d’Anscombe, l’éthique des vertus néo-aristotéliciennes a élargi le concept de bon caractère. L’attention a été portée sur la manière dont les émotions enrichissent la vie vertueuse.
Contours et organisations des activités de santé publique au sein des centres hospitaliers universitaires français
Authors: Ferriot Cécile , Leclère Brice , Colin Cyrille , Moret Leïla
Published: March 2021

Objectif de l’étude : Cette étude, menée à l’initiative du Collège Universitaire des Enseignants de Santé Publique, a pour but de décrire, du point de vue des médecins de santé publique, les contours et les organisations des activités de santé publique au sein des CHU français. Un questionnaire auto-administré a été adressé, au premier semestre 2018, à l’ensemble des 29 CHU et des 12 hôpitaux universitaires de l’AP-HP, complété par dix entretiens téléphoniques. Résultats : Parmi les 33 établissements répondants (24 CHU et 9 HU), 28 disposaient d’un pôle regroupant la majorité des activités de santé publique, associées à d’autres spécialités (médecine du travail, pharmacie, etc.), dans 85 % des cas. L’existence d’un pôle de santé publique améliorait la visibilité et la lisibilité de la spécialité et permettait de fédérer les forces et compétences. L’épidémiologie, les biostatistiques et l’information médicale étaient les activités les plus présentes. Plusieurs activités spécifiques étaient partagées avec d’autres pôles ou directions (qualité et sécurité des soins, hygiène, etc.), ce qui était expliqué, en partie, par un nombre insuffisant de médecins de santé publique. Les activités à développer étaient principalement la promotion de la santé, l’économie de la santé et l’exploitation des données massives. Conclusion : Si la majorité des établissements dispose d’un pôle identifié, l’organisation des activités de santé publique est hétérogène et évolue constamment. Malgré plusieurs difficultés, la diversité des activités de santé publique progresse dans les CHU, nécessitant le développement d’un maillage avec les structures extra-hospitalières de santé publique pour poursuivre la dynamique engagée.
Dépasser la tension éthique de la césarienne sur demande maternelle
Authors: Schantz Clémence , Lhotte Marie , Pantelias Anne-Charlotte
Published: March 2021

Introduction : Dans un contexte juridique centré sur le droit et l’autonomie de la patiente, certaines femmes souhaitent pouvoir choisir leur mode d’accouchement. Les sages-femmes étant les actrices de premier recours des femmes enceintes avec une grossesse physiologique, nous avons voulu savoir s’il était, pour elles, éthiquement recevable d’accompagner une femme dans sa décision de césarienne. Méthode : Cette enquête est une étude ancillaire du programme de recherche CESARIA validé par le Comité de Protection des Personnes Sud Méditerranée IV et déclaré au CNIL. Trente-sept entretiens semi-directifs ont été réalisés auprès de sages-femmes et de femmes. Résultats : La majorité des femmes et des sages-femmes partagent une vision de l’accouchement comme « naturel » et considèrent la demande de césarienne comme relevant de la déviance. Lorsqu’elle est formulée, cette demande place les sages-femmes dans une situation de tension éthique. D’une part, les sages-femmes souhaitent orienter les femmes vers l’accouchement par voie basse qu’elles considèrent comme étant la norme, et ce choix incarne les principes éthiques de bienfaisance et de non-malfaisance. D’autre part, les sages-femmes expriment vouloir respecter le choix et la liberté des patientes, illustrant le principe éthique de respect de l’autonomie. Conclusion : L’enjeu éthique de la césarienne sur demande ne se situe pas tant dans la décision d’accepter ou non une césarienne, mais plutôt dans l’écoute de cette demande. Prendre en considération une indication médicale plus largement que la simple indication obstétricale permet d’accompagner de manière éthique ces demandes, dans le respect de l’autonomie de la femme enceinte.
Analyse de la performance d’un hôpital public à mode de gestion privée au Burkina Faso
Authors: Bara Anata , Tougri Halima , Belrhiti Zakaria , Baguiya Adama , Ouedraogo Adja Mariam , Compaoré Rachidatou , Kouanda Seni
Published: March 2021

Introduction : Les hôpitaux publics en Afrique sub-saharienne se caractérisent par une faiblesse de leurs performances. Aussi, le Burkina Faso a-t-il expérimenté un mode de gestion privé dans un hôpital public pour améliorer sa performance. Objectif : Évaluer la performance du CHU de Tengandogo (CHU-T) de Ouagadougou, un hôpital public à mode de gestion privée. Méthode : Il s’agit d’une étude transversale réalisée dans le service des urgences médico-chirurgicales. Les techniques de collecte de données ont consisté en une revue documentaire avec une extraction de données quantitatives (indicateurs de performance hospitaliers) et des entretiens individuels semi-structurés auprès d’informateurs clés. Les données ont été collectées en avril 2017. Le cadre d’analyse couvre la continuité, l’efficacité et l’efficience des services, la sécurité du personnel et l’environnement de travail. Résultats : L’étude a montré que la performance du CHU-T était entravée par la rupture fréquente des médicaments et consommables médicaux, l’état de dégradation des infrastructures et des équipements, les difficultés de coordination des soins entre les services, l’étiquette «  hôpital pour riches  » et l’absence de données relatives à la sécurité des patients et du personnel. Conclusion : Cette étude a montré que ce modèle de gestion n’a pas permis d’améliorer la performance attendue de l’hôpital. D’autres facteurs devraient être considérés pour résoudre les problèmes structurels affectant la performance des hôpitaux en Afrique.
Repenser les partenariats entre écoles primaires et secteurs de psychiatrie infanto-juvénile en temps de COVID-19
Authors: Bonneton Sandrine , Maillard Isabelle , Denis Frédéric , Roelandt Jean-Luc
Published: March 2021

Introduction : À échelle mondiale, le rapprochement entre écoles et services publics de pédopsychiatrie est privilégié pour promouvoir le développement d’interventions précoces qui améliorent les trajectoires de santé, de la prévention jusqu’aux soins des enfants exposés à des difficultés d’ordre psychique. Dans une perspective de santé publique, la contextualisation de ces pratiques est primordiale pour assurer leur pérennisation et leur efficacité. Cet article propose un éclairage sur les enjeux de ces rapprochements et les avantages de ces derniers pour répondre à l’empreinte sanitaire, sociale et économique de la crise liée à l’arrivée brutale de l’épidémie de Covid-19. Objectifs : Améliorer la prise en charge des enfants présentant des problèmes de santé mentale ou d’ordre psychique renvoie à une prise en compte de leur environnement au-delà du cadre thérapeutique. Une recherche interventionnelle, en cours actuellement, engage sur plusieurs sites en France : écoles primaires, Centres médico-psychologiques (CMP) et Conseils locaux en santé mental (CLSM). Elle a pour but d’inventorier et d’analyser les cadres partenariaux et interventionnels les plus efficients, à partir des besoins et des ressources mobilisables de chaque site. Elle envisage une diversification et une contextualisation de l’offre de soins dans un souci d’équité et d’efficacité thérapeutique à partir de l’école. Résultats : Plus que de résultats, il s’agit de faire des propositions pour accompagner au mieux la sortie de confinement et les mois à venir. Le déploiement de partenariats sur les territoires fortement marqués par les inégalités sociales et économiques constitue une priorité en termes de santé publique et d’orientation des politiques locales. Ces partenariats pourraient participer d’une stratégie globale d’évaluation des besoins et d’accompagnement personnalisé des enfants. La formalisation d’interventions à l’interface école-secteur permettrait d’étayer les professionnels de l’école à surmonter cette crise sanitaire qui traverse leur institution, afin qu’elle ne se cristallise pas en son sein. La montée en puissance des CLSM permettrait d’amplifier les coordinations et les collaborations locales pour aider les enfants les plus vulnérables psychiquement et accompagner leurs parents, compte tenu de leur situation, à soutenir le développement de ces derniers. Conclusion : Redonner les moyens humains et matériels aux structures existantes, notamment au secteur de psychiatrie infanto-juvénile, afin qu’il puisse remplir ses missions de service public semble une priorité aujourd’hui. La mise en œuvre de partenariats école-CMP-CLSM peut contribuer à l’orientation de politique locale dans un souci d’élaborer des stratégies individuelle et collective, qui garantissent des soins adaptés aux besoins des enfants et accessibles au plus grand nombre.
Facteurs d’adhésion et utilisation des Mutuelles de Santé (MS) : région Ziguinchor au Sénégal
Authors: Sow Papa Gallo , Bop Martial Coly , Akoetey Kossivi , Diop Cheikh Tacko , Kâ Ousseynou
Published: March 2021

But : l’objectif de cette étude était d’identifier les facteurs qui expliquent l’adhésion et l’utilisation des Mutuelles de santé (MS) et de formuler des recommandations d’actions qui permettraient d’inciter la population à la base à adhérer davantage aux MS dans la Région de Ziguinchor au Sénégal. Méthode : l’échantillon était constitué de 392 patients sélectionnés par la méthode des quotas dans les centres hospitaliers de la Région. Les données ont été traitées et analysées par les logiciels sphinx et stata et par la méthode de régression logistique. Résultats : les facteurs qui expliqueraient l’adhésion et l’utilisation des MS dans la région d’étude étaient : la perception, la présence d’une personne âgée dans le ménage, la confiance accordée au MS, la taille des ménages et la pyramide médicale instaurée.
Fréquence des grossesses en milieu scolaire et profil des adolescentes concernées à Conakry, Guinée
Authors: Sidibé Sidikiba , Grovogui Fassou Mathias , Millimouno Tamba Mina , Camara Bienvenu Salim , Bouédouno Patrice , Kourouma Karifa , Camara Gnoumé , Tounkara Adrien Fapeingou , Delamou Alexandre
Published: March 2021

Introduction : La grossesse en milieu scolaire constitue un frein à l’épanouissement et à l’éducation des jeunes filles surtout dans les Pays en développement. Le but de cette étude était d’analyser la fréquence des grossesses en milieu scolaire et le profil des adolescentes ayant fait l’expérience dans la ville de Conakry en Guinée. Méthode : Nous avons mené une étude transversale couvrant la période du 1 er  janvier au 30 juin 2017 dans 16 écoles. Résultats : Au total, 2 419 adolescentes ont accepté de participer à l’étude. L’âge moyen était de 16,48±0,04 ans. Les élèves âgées de 15 à 19 ans (93 %), celles qui étaient au collège (53,3 %) et les célibataires (69,8 %) étaient les plus nombreuses à avoir été enceintes en milieu scolaire ( p  < 0,05). Selon nos statistiques, les facteurs significativement associés à la survenue des grossesses chez les adolescentes en milieu scolaire étaient : l’âge (Rapport de côtes ajusté (RCa)=1,5 ; IC95 %=1,3-1,7 p  < 0,001), le niveau d’étude (RCa = 0,6 ; IC95 % = 0,4-0,8 ; p  = 0,003 pour le lycée), le lieu de résidence (RCa = 0,5 ; IC95 % = 0,4-0,9 ; p  = 0,002 pour Matam, RCa = 0,4 ; IC95 % = 0,3-0,8 ; p  < 0,001 pour Dixinn, RCa = 0,3 ; IC95 % = 0,2-0,8 ; p  = 0,010 pour Ratoma), la situation matrimoniale (RCa = 8,7 ; IC95 % = 3,4-7,0 ; p  < 0,001), les informations sur la santé de la reproduction (RCa = 2,4 ; IC95 % = 1,1-3,0 ; p  = 0,015), la connaissance des avantages de la planification familiale (RCa = 2,2 ; IC95 % = 1,0-2,2 ; p  = 0,030) et la difficulté d’accès aux services de santé sexuelle et reproductive (RCa = 3,4 ; IC95 % = 1,4-3,7 ; p  < 0,01). Conclusion : La survenue des grossesses en milieu scolaire demeure une réalité préoccupante chez les adolescentes. Les facteurs qui y sont positivement associés sont l’âge, le niveau d’étude, le lieu de résidence, la situation matrimoniale, la connaissance des informations sur la santé sexuelle, la connaissance des avantages de la planification familiale et les difficultés liées à l’accès aux services de santé sexuelle et reproductive.
Physical properties of extruded fish feed containing silkworm (Bombyx mori) pupae meal
Authors: Alcaraz R. , Mita G.I. , Hernández-Contreras A. , Hernández M.D.
Published: March 2021

The silkworm pupae (Bombyx mori) may be an interesting resource for aquaculture feed, due to its high nutritional value. The present work evaluates the physical properties of five extruded diets for gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) containing 0, 2.5, 5, 10 or 15% of non-defatted silkworm pupae meal. The physical properties studied included: expansion ratio, density, hardness, durability, water absorption index, water solubility index, floatability, sinking velocity and fat leakage. Feed formulated with insect meal showed an increase in expansion ratio, hardness and durability, while water absorption index and sinking velocity decreased. The pellets from these diets showed no increased nutrient leaching or fat leakage. Thus, it is possible to include up to 15% of silkworm pupae meal in extruded fish feed without impairing its physical quality.
High School Students' Perceptions of Nursing as a Career: A Pilot Study
Authors: Grossman Divina , Arnold Lauren , Sullivan Jacqueline , Cameron Mary Emily , Munro Barbara
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT

A pilot survey of 300 high school junior students was implemented to elicit their perceptions of nursing and to explore the relationship between the experience of having a nursing role model and the decision to consider nursing as a career. The results indicated that the majority of students in the sample were aware of the caring and helping aspects of nursing, but there seemed to be a lack of knowledge about expanded roles and opportunities for advancement. High school students had significantly different mean opinion scores according to their sex (F = 17.03, p<0001) and the decision to consider nursing as a career (F = 10.00, p<002). There appeared to be a significant relationship between the experience of having a nurse role model and consideration of nursing as a career option (X2 = 8.23, p<.0041). These findings have important implications for recruitment of young people into the nursing profession.
Turing instability and pattern formations for reaction-diffusion systems on 2D bounded domain
Authors: Jiang Weihua , Cao Xun , Wang Chuncheng
Published: March 2021

In this article, Turing instability and the formations of spatial patterns for a general two-component reaction-diffusion system defined on 2D bounded domain, are investigated. By analyzing characteristic equation at positive constant steady states and further selecting diffusion rate \begin{document}$ d $\end{document} and diffusion ratio \begin{document}$ \varepsilon $\end{document} as bifurcation parameters, sufficient and necessary conditions for the occurrence of Turing instability are established, which is called the first Turing bifurcation curve. Furthermore, parameter regions in which single-mode Turing patterns arise and multiple-mode (or superposition) Turing patterns coexist when bifurcations parameters are chosen, are described. Especially, the boundary of parameter region for the emergence of single-mode Turing patterns, consists of the first and the second Turing bifurcation curves which are given in explicit formulas. Finally, by taking diffusive Schnakenberg system as an example, parameter regions for the emergence of various kinds of spatially inhomogeneous patterns with different spatial frequencies and superposition Turing patterns, are estimated theoretically and shown numerically.
Solutions and characterizations under multicriteria management systems
Authors: Liao Yu-Hsien
Published: March 2021

In real situations, agents might take different activity levels to participate; agents might represent administrative areas of different scales. On the other hand, agents always face an increasing need to focus on multiple aims efficiently in their operational processes. Thus, we introduce two solutions to investigate distribution mechanism by applying the maximal level-marginal contributions among activity level (decision) vectors under multicriteria management systems. Based on a specific reduced game and some reasonable properties, we offer some characterizations to analyze the rationality for these two solutions. In order to desire that any utility could be distributed among the players and their activity levels in proportion to related differences, two weighted extensions are also proposed by means of different weight functions.
Le compostage, entre réduction des déchets et domestication du pourrissement
Authors: Granjou Céline , Higgin Marc , Mounet Coralie
Published: March 2021

Dans la ville de Grenoble et ses environs, comme dans de nombreuses autres villes et collectivités confrontées à la forte augmentation des déchets ménagers, le compostage est promu afin de réduire la quantité des déchets à traiter. Sur la base d’une enquête empirique auprès des praticiens et des techniciens du compostage à Grenoble et dans ses environs, l’article interroge les enjeux de la promotion du compostage privé. Il montre que ce qui est en jeu pour les praticiens du compostage, au-delà d’une adhésion aux normes de tri et de réduction des déchets, c’est surtout l’introduction, dans l’ordre ménager et domestique, d’une série de savoir-faire, de savoir-voir et d’expérimentations situées visant à évaluer et stimuler les mécanismes de décomposition et de pourrissement qui prennent place dans les composts. Cet article propose ainsi de montrer comment le compostage introduit un nouveau rapport aux déchets, interrogeant leur statut même de déchet : les restes de notre consommation cessent d'être de simples « détritus » dont on doit se débarrasser, pour devenir une matière dont la capacité productive est « domestiquée », mais jamais totalement contrôlée.
New bitongling (NBTL) ameliorates rheumatoid arthritis in rats through inhibiting JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway
Authors: Li Xiang , Xie Yu , Kang An , Wang Yue
Published: March 2021

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is featured by a variety of physical symptoms and fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) abnormal proliferation. Increasing evidence has demonstrated that traditional Chinese medicine exerts an important role in RA treatment. New bitongling (NBTL) as one of the traditional Chinese medicine has been reported to be involved in the progression of RA, but the exact mechanism is unclear. In our study, we intended to investigate the effect of NBTL on RA to identify the mechanisms related to JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. Extracts of Tripterygium wilfordii (TW), a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, have been widely used for treating RA in China for several decades, so, TW was used as a positive control drug for TBNL. RA rats were constructed by immunization with collagen type II to evaluate the action of NBTL in vivo. Body weight and arthritic index were evaluated. Hematoxylin and Eosin staining was performed to analysis the morphological changes of ankle joints tissue. TUNEL and flow cytometry were performed to examine cell apoptosis, while CCK8 and Ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) were performed to examine cell proliferation. In addition, the markers of inflammation were detected by Western blot, ELISA, and RT-qPCR. Firstly, we find that rats treated with NBTL or TW not only reduced swelling degree and bone destruction, but also repressed IL-1 β and IL-6 levels. In addition, NBTL and TW could increase the weight of rats, and promote the level of IL-10 and IL-4 in vivo. Furthermore, NBTL inhibited inflammation of FLS, induced cell apoptosis and hindered cell proliferation, which was reversed by dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP), a JAK2/STAT3 pathway activator. Taken together, NBTL potentially retarded RA via JAK2/STAT3 pathway, highlighting novel mechanisms associated with RA.
The effect of artificial sweeteners on body weight of mice
Authors: Ali Iyad , Shraim Naser , Atrash Wafaa’ , Sirafi Aisha , Abadi Huda
Published: March 2021

Artificial Sweeteners (AS) are synthetic sugar substitutes that have sweetening potency hundreds of times more than the table sugar (sucrose). Artificial sweeteners are regarded as attractive alternatives to sugar as they add no calories to food intake. There are many hypotheses suggesting that AS may enhance appetite and cause weight gain. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of AS on food intake, fluid intake and body weight of mice. Acceptable daily intakes of AS solutions were administered orally to different set of mice for four weeks. The body weight, food consumption and fluid intake were measured. At the same time, the effect of Zingiber officinale extracts (natural appetite suppressor), Thymus vulgaris extracts (natural appetite inducer) and cyproheptadine (an appetite stimulant drug) on body weight of mice was evaluated. Artificial sweeteners consumption cause insignificant changes in body weight (p>0.05). However, the mean consumption of food and solutions varies significantly for some groups. The consumption of AS has no significant effect on body weight and may contribute to weight maintenance and energy balance as substitutes to high caloric sugar
Prevalence of aspergillus skin hypersensitivity in allergic rhinitis
Authors: Bansal Monika , Kaur Komaldeep , Gupta Aditi , Goyal Deepak , Girdhar Nidhi , Chopra Vishal , Bhagat Sanjeev , Goel Akhil D.
Published: March 2021

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a chronic allergen specific, IgE-mediated hypersensitivity disorder which significantly impairs the quality of life in affected patients. Many aeroallergens and molds are responsible for AR. This study was  conducted to find prevalence of Aspergillus fumigatus skin hypersensitivity in patients of AR by skin prick test (SPT).  150 clinically diagnosed AR patients visiting our OPD were enrolled. Skin hypersensitivity for Aspergillus f. was done by SPT in all the enrolled patients. Chi square test and Studentâ€™s t-test were applied for statistical analysis. Out of 150 patients, 60 (40%) were positive for Aspergillus fumigatus SPT. Majority of the positive patients had persistent AR and among those 39/60 (65%) had moderate to severe persistent AR and 12/60 (20%) had mild persistent AR.  Our study concluded that there is high (40%) prevalence of Aspergillus f. skin hypersensitivity among AR patients. The hypersensitivity to Aspergillus f. was found more in severe AR patients and it was statistically significant.
A "sneaky" symptom of aortic dissection. Brief literature review, physiopathology and diagnostic tools management
Authors: Uran Carlo , Giojelli Angela
Published: March 2021

Aortic diseases cover a large spectrum of conditions, such as aortic aneurysm and acute aortic syndromes (i.e., dissections, intramural hematoma, penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer, traumatic aortic injuries, and pseudoaneurysms), genetic diseases (e.g., Marfan syndrome) and congenital abnormalities, such as coarctation of the aorta. These conditions may have an acute presentation; thus, if the acute aortic syndrome is the first sign of the disease, the prognosis is extremely poor. Prompt diagnosis and timely therapy are therefore mandatory. In this paper, we discuss a deceptive symptom of painless aortic dissection and its physiopathology. Furthermore, we briefly review the literature and discuss the management of diagnostic tools.
Psychosis in Wilson's disease
Authors: Sumedha Kota Raga , Rayirala Anitha , Bipeta Rajshekhar
Published: March 2021

Wilson's disease is an uncommon genetic disorder, in which abnormal copper accumulation occurs in various parts of the body. Approximately 30% of patients debut with neuropsychiatric symptoms posing a diagnostic challenge in the initial phase. In this report, we present a case of a middle-aged woman with Wilson's disease who initially developed neurological symptoms such as shaking of hands and jerky movements of the head and later developed psychotic symptoms. We discuss the unique features of our case. Most patients with Wilson's disease develop psychiatric symptoms at some stage. The index case presented with psychosis, which is less commonly described compared to other psychiatric manifestations in patients with Wilson's disease. Currently, there are no treatment guidelines for the management of the same.
Assessment of Trace Heavy Metals Contamination in the Tissues and Saliva of the Medicinal Leech Hirudinaria manillensis
Authors: Alaama Mohamed , Abdualkader Abdualrahman Mohammed , Ghawi Abbas Mohammad , Merzouk Ahmed , Khalid Reem. S. , Helaluddin A. B. M.
Published: March 2021

Concentrations of heavy metals (HMs) in the tissues and saliva extracts of leeches (Hirudinaria manillensis) collected from Cheneh Lake, Terengganu, Malaysia were investigated. Concentrations of HMs like Cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr), Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), Nickel (Ni), Lead (Pb), Selenium (Se) and Zinc (Zn) were revealed by utilising Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectroscopy (ICP-MS). Nearly all the examined HMs concentrations in the lake water were noted to be higher compared to the Maximum Permissible Limits (MPL) as per Interim National Water Quality Standards for Malaysia (INWQS). Moreover, traces of HMs were discovered in tissues and saliva extracts of leeches. Such quantities may pose a health hazard to the patients upon an instant application of leeches on their skin. In this work, a novel technique was presented to decrease the level of metals in leech saliva by espousing a frequent washing process involving deionized or non-chlorinated water for three weeks. This process was extremely effectual in considerably decreasing HMs concentrations (P<0.05), particularly Cd level (up to 99.7%) in saliva and Pb level (up to 92.38%) in tissues. Thus, a constant washing process might aid in harmless utilization of leeches for different conventional biomedical practices.
A two-pronged truncated deferred sampling plan (TTDSP) for log-logistic distribution
Authors: Elakhe S.O. , Braimah J.O. , Ogbeide E.M. , Ikpotokin O.
Published: March 2021

This paper is aimed at developing a new truncated sampling plan that uses information from precedent and successive lots for lot disposition with a pretention that the life-time of a particular product assumes a Log-logistic distribution. A new Two-pronged Truncated Deferred Sampling Plan (TTDSP) for Log-logistic distribution is proposed when the testing is truncated at a precise time. The best possible sample sizes are obtained under a given Maximum Allowable Percent Defective (MAPD), Test Suspension Ratios (TSR) and acceptance numbers (c). A formula for calculating the operating characteristics of the proposed plan is also developed. The operating characteristics and mean-ratio values were used to measure the performance of the plan. The findings of the study show that: Log-logistic distribution has a decreasing failure rate; furthermore, as mean-life ratio increase, the failure rate reduces; the sample size increase as the acceptance number, test suspension ratios and maximum allowable percent defective increases. The study concludes that the new minimum sample sizes were smaller which makes the plan a more economical plan to adopt when cost and time of production is costly and the experiment being destructive.
Warfarin-induced skin necrosis: a rare condition
Authors: Nsaful Josephine , Ofori Adjei Yaw , Dedey Florence , Agboadoh Nelson , Anyigba Edem , Pieterson Warigbani
Published: March 2021

Warfarin induced skin necrosis is a rare debilitating and, in some cases, life-threatening complication. A 47-year-old male on life-long anticoagulation omits his medication and develops extensive skin necrosis of the left leg complicated by acute renal failure three days after restarting warfarin. Investigations reveal possible Protein S deficiency which is known to be a predisposing condition. Various mechanisms have been proposed as the underlying cause. He was managed on heparin, wound debridement and skin grafting. Warfarin was restarted concurrently with heparin. Knowledge of this complication will enable timely diagnosis and treatment.
Chest CT features of patients under investigation for Covid-19 pneumonia in a Ghanaian tertiary hospital: a descriptive study
Authors: Dzefi-Tettey Klenam , S. Saaka Patience , Acquah Isaac , K. M. Edzie Emmanuel , N. Gorleku Philip , Adjei Patrick , K. Semetey Jonathan , K. D. Ayem Edward , J. Insaidoo Arwen , Samba Ali
Published: March 2021

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has since December 2019 become a problem of global concern. Due to the virus’ novelty and high infectivity, early diagnosis is key to curtailing spread. The knowledge and identification of chest Computerized Tomography (CT) features in Patients Under Investigation (PUI) for the disease would help in its management and containment.

Objectives: To describe the chest CT findings of PUI for COVID-19 pneumonia referred to the Department of Radiology of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital; as well as to determine the relationship between symptom onset and severity of the chest CT findings.

Methods: The study was retrospective and included 63 PUI for COVID-19 referred to the Department between 11th April, 2020 and 10th June, 2020, for non-enhanced chest CT imaging. Clinical data were obtained from patients’ records and Reverse Transcriptase–Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) results were acquired after the CT evaluation.

Results: The mean age in years was 51.1±19.9 SD. More males (52.8%) than females (47.2%) tested positive for COVID-19 and the age range for positive cases was 7 months to 86 years, with a mean of 53.2±21 SD years. Common features of COVID-19 pneumonia were bilateral posterior basal consolidations, Ground Glass Opacities (GGO) and air bronchograms. Findings were worse in patients scanned 5–9 days after onset of symptoms.

Conclusion: Adequate knowledge of chest CT features of COVID-19 pneumonia, proves a valuable resource in triaging of symptomatic patients and consequent containment of the disease in the hospital setting.
Impact of Resource Distribution and Availability on Primary Schools Pupil Learning Outcomes: Case Study of Chintheche Education Zone, Nkhata Bay, Malawi
Authors: Nyirenda Mercy Khumbo
Published: March 2021

This study investigated the impact of resource distribution on learning outcomes on nine purposively selected primary schools in the Chintheche Education Zone (previously known as Chihame Zone 1), Nkhata Bay District. Criteria for eligibility were that a school should have administered primary school leaving examinations at least three (3) times and was easy to access by public transport. In addition to document analysis, the study collected data using a questionnaire administered to the head teachers of each school, the Primary Education Advisor (PEA), and District Education Manager (DEM). Descriptive statistical analysis was done to compare pupil performance between schools with optimal resource availability and those without. The study found that the distribution of resources in the Chintheche Education Zone is unequal even though the zone is under one Primary Education Advisor. Schools closest to the trading centre have more resources and perform better than schools located far away from the trading centre and lacking almost in everything. The findings suggest that the unequal distribution of resources affects selection of pupils to secondary schools. The study recommends that fair and equitable distribution of resources would go a long way to achieving equity in access to secondary education.
Relevance of Cocoa Life Project Interventions to Community Development in Rural Ghana: Exploring the Views of Beneficiaries in Wassa East District
Authors: Odoom Daniel
Published: March 2021

This study investigated the relevance of Cocoa Life Project interventions implemented by World Vision Ghana to the development of beneficiary communities using the Wassa East District as a case. The views of members who were mostly farmers, gari processors, soap makers, and members of village savings and loans associations from beneficiary communities were considered in a sequential-dependence mixed method research approach. A total of 406 respondents were selected using stratified, simple random and convenience sampling methods, with 84.2 percent response rate for the quantitative data. Research instruments were interview schedule and focus group discussion guide. Means and standard deviation were used for quantitative analysis whilst thematic analysis was done for the qualitative data. The study observed that WVG’s project interventions were highly relevant to education, business development, financial literacy, microcredit facilities, agriculture, and livelihood diversification within beneficiary communities. Also, awareness creation was one of the main communication tools WVG relied upon in promoting community development in the district. Though the interventions led to behaviour change, there were concerns with the overall change in behaviour within the communities. Besides, beneficiary communities had diverse development needs which could only be understood through appropriate and well-planned development communication strategies and approaches. As part of the recommendations, WVG should collaborate with Mondelez International and local authorities to come out with measures to improve upon job creation, behaviour change at the community level, health care services, and water and sanitation in Cocoa Life communities.
The Role of Public Relations in sensitizing public on Government Projects in Kenya: Case of Nairobi County
Authors: Kaleli Winfred , Otslulah Winnie Ndeta , Mutisya Consolata
Published: March 2021

Public relations is a vital tool for the government because it emphasizes on democracy and good governance. This study sought to establish the role of public relations tools in sensitizing the public on government projects in government ministries in the Central Government in Nairobi. Specifically, the study examined: the effects of media relations on sensitizing the public on government projects in Nairobi County, Kenya; the effects of community relations on sensitizing the public on government projects in Nairobi County, Kenya; the effects of sponsorships on sensitizing the public on government projects in Nairobi County, Kenya; the effects of community events on sensitizing the public on government projects in Nairobi County, Kenya. For this study, the researcher used descriptive survey design. The target population comprised heads of departments in state corporations in Kenya which totals 162. This study was a census survey of all 162 state corporations in Kenya. The unit of analysis comprised all the state corporations whereas the unit of observation consisted of 162 heads of departments (Public Relations Officers) of each State Corporation, thus forming a sample size of 162 respondents. Primary data was collected using questionnaires as the main data collection instruments. The study also collected data using an interview schedule. SPSS version 20 was adopted in the analysis of quantitative data. Data was presented in the form of pie charts, graphs and tables. Themes were used to analyze qualitative data. The study found that media relations positively and significantly influence sensitisation on government projects; community relations positively and significantly influence sensitisation on government projects; sponsorships positively and significantly influence sensitisation on government projects and community events positively and significantly influence sensitisation on government projects. The study, therefore, recommends that stronger communication mechanisms should be installed and well integrated in the system to ensure easier and convenient dissemination of information to the public. PR department of any organisation contributes to its development and enhances customer’s satisfaction. In this line, the study recommends that strong and well integrated PR department should be installed in an organisation and therefore should be sufficiently funded to ensure its success. Further, the study recommends that organisations should devise ways and means to maintain a long-term commitment with clients.
A Quantitative Examination of the Phenomenon of Soli and Public Relations Practice in Ghana
Authors: Chentiba Ahmed Taifique , Faisal Amadu Mohammed , Mumuni Eliasu
Published: March 2021

Public Relations (PR) practitioners are cited as being among the top three sources that perpetuate brown envelope journalism (Soli) in their dealings with journalists. The practice, thus, appears to have become a norm among PR practitioners and journalists (reporters) without recourse to the ethical implications of the practice. This study investigates the factors PR practitioners in Ghana consider when they engage in the phenomenon of Soli. The paper adopted the quantitative research approach and the survey design to investigate this phenomenon. Findings of the study were tested using the Binary and Ordered Probit regression models. The results showed no significant relationship between PR practitioners’ knowledge of IPR (Ghana) code of ethics and the payment of Soli by PR practitioners. The results also showed a positive significant relationship between PR practitioners desire to obtain positive media coverage and payment of Soli by PR practitioners. The study recommended the promotion and enforcement of professional and organisational policies on inducement and a redefinition of the media relations function of PR practitioners.
Narrative Persuasion: Moderating effects of character identification on relationship between message format and intention to screen for cervical cancer among women in agricultural sector in Kiambu County, Kenya.
Authors: Muchiri Joseph , Mberia Helen , Nyambane Ryoidah
Published: March 2021

There is evidence that use of narrative messages is effective in the context of health behavior change. There is however no explanation as to what aspect of narrative leads to high level of persuasion. We evaluated the moderating effects of character identification on the three elements of narrative message (narrative message frame, narrative rationality and narrator’s perspective) in regard to the uptake of cervical cancer screening among women in the agricultural sector in Kiambu county, Kenya. A randomised experimental design was used. Narrative Message frame (gain frame vs. loss frame), narrative perspective (first vs third person), and narrative rationality, were manipulated. The messages were presented via a brief narrative video on cervical cancer and cervical screening. A uniform pretest questionnaire on cervical cancer and cervical cancer screening (T1) was completed by respondents before watching a narrative video. After watching a narrative video on cervical cancer screening, participants responded to the post test questionnaire (T2). Data from 378 (100 per cent) respondents for the pretest and 344 (91 per cent) for posttest was analysed and included in the study findings for the baseline and posttest respectively. Multiple hierarchical regression analysis was used. The study found that the majority of respondents were aged above 41 years of age at 32 per cent majority 249 (65.9 per cent) of the respondents were married, and majority 210 (55 per cent) of the respondents had 1 to 3 children followed by 4 to 5 at 91 (24 per cent). After running multiple hierarchical regression analysis, the study found that identification with story character moderated for all the independent variables. The study concluded that while using narrative messages to promote health behaviour, use of story characters which the target audience can identify with, may help in increasing adoption of advocated health behaviour.
Influence of Message Content in Persuasive Communication on Adoption of Routine Immunisation of Children Aged 0-5 years in Bomet County, Kenya
Authors: Amatu Mary , Mberia Hellen , Wa Ngula Kaylo
Published: March 2021

An estimated two to three million annual deaths from vaccine preventable diseases (VPDs) are prevented through immunisation. Currently about 19.5 million infants miss out on routine immunisation globally. We carried out a study on the role of message content in persuasive communication on adoption of routine immunisation services. The study employed a mixed method research design. A sample of 384 caregivers was used. Data was collected using interviewer administered questionnaires and Key Informant Interviews. The key informants interviewed were taken with sub-county medical officer of health, health promotion officer and EPI coordinator. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were applied in the analysis. The study findings were that message content had positive influence on adoption of routine immunisation. The study recommended that routine immunisation messages be made frequently available, targeted and tailored to the caregivers. Secondly, the community should be involved in advocacy towards adoption of routine immunisation, to create ownership and adoption sustainability. Additionally, health workers should be motivated towards good practice in health worker-client communication, specifically, persuasive communication to build trust from the caregivers. The researcher recommends comparative studies should be conducted, comparing the well performing counties with Bomet County, Kenya.An estimated two to three million annual deaths from vaccine preventable diseases (VPDs) are prevented through immunisation. Currently about 19.5 million infants miss out on routine immunisation globally. We carried out a study on the role of message content in persuasive communication on adoption of routine immunisation services. The study employed a mixed method research design. A sample of 384 caregivers was used. Data was collected using interviewer administered questionnaires and Key Informant Interviews. The key informants interviewed were taken with sub-county medical officer of health, health promotion officer and EPI coordinator. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were applied in the analysis. The study findings were that message content had positive influence on adoption of routine immunisation. The study recommended that routine immunisation messages be made frequently available, targeted and tailored to the caregivers. Secondly, the community should be involved in advocacy towards adoption of routine immunisation, to create ownership and adoption sustainability. Additionally, health workers should be motivated towards good practice in health worker-client communication, specifically, persuasive communication to build trust from the caregivers. The researcher recommends comparative studies should be conducted, comparing the well performing counties with Bomet County, Kenya.
ANALISIS RASIO PROFITABILITAS PADA PT BANK PERMATA, Tbk
Authors: Agus Agus Subardi
Published: March 2021

Ratio profitabilitas adalah ratio untuk mengukur keberhasilan perusahaan dengan mencari efisiensi penggunaan modal. Rasio profitabilitas menggambarkan tingkat efektivitas manajemen laba pada perusahaan. Jadi, perhitungan profitabilitas dimaksudkan untuk mengetahui sejauh mana manajemen perusahaan mengendalikan bisnisnya. Variabel dalam penelitian ini adalah rasio profitabilitas, margin laba kotor, margin laba bersih, pengembalian modal ekuitas, dan pengembalian total aset. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, tingkat rasio profitabilitas setiap tahun selalu menurun. Jika dibandingkan dengan standar Bank Indonesia, rasio profitabilitas pada PT Bank Permata Tbk tidak sehat. Hal ini dikarenakan, tingkat rasio profitabilitas lebih rendah dari standar Bank Indonesia, terutama pada tahun 2015. Kecuali pada rasio laba kotor dan total aset, rasio ini mengalami peningkatan setiap tahunnya. Namun, bila dibandingkan dengan standar Bank Indonesia, rasio ini masih di bawah standar. Dalam hal ini, pihak manajemen PT Bank Permata Tbk, harus semakin meningkatkan tingkat profitabilitas perusahaan, terutama pada pengembalian modal ekuitas dan pengembalian total aset dengan meningkatkan pendapatan bersih dan pendapatan operasional perusahaan.
ANALISIS KINERJA KEUANGAN PADA CREDIT UNION BONAVENTURA TEMPAT PELAYANAN LEDO
Authors: Yosefa Sufiana Hildegardis , Beni Sabinus
Published: March 2021

Penelitian ini dilakukan pada Koperasi Kredit “Credit Union Bonaventura Tempat Pelayanan (Kantor Cabang) Ledo” untuk melihat kinerja keuangan yang ditinjau dari profitabilitas, likuiditas dan solvabilitas melalui laporan pertanggungjawaban tahun buku 2016. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan pada empat aspek secara umum yaitu likuiditas: cukup baik, rasio solvabilitas: tidak baik, dan rasio profitabilitas: cukup baik. Berdasarkan laporan pencapaian program kerja keuangan tahun buku 2016 rata-rata pencapaian diatas 73,92% tereaslisasi dari taget yang telah ditetapkan dimana pencapaian tertinggi pada tabungan di Bank 108,08%, aktiva tetap 100,27%, Pendapatan di luar usaha 114,11%, SHU sebelum pajak 102% kondisi ini sangat berbanding terbalik dengan pencapaian kegiatan utama lembaga yaitu Pinjama umum 73,56%, Pendapatan usaha 74,43% dan Aset 77,69%.
DAMPAK PETI TERHADAP PEMBANGUNAN BERKELANJUTAN
Authors: Novera Gladis
Published: March 2021

Pembangunan berkelanjutan merupakan pembangunan yang pada saat ini menjadi tantangan bagi setiap daerah untuk memenuhi kesejahteraan masyarakat yang masih mengalami ketertinggalan. Hal ini tentu menjadi tugas yang harus dilaksanakan agar dapat memenuhi kebutuhan hidup pada masa kini demi kesejahteraan masyarakat, tidak hanya itu pembangunan berkelanjutan juga harus memerhatikan pemanfaatan lingkungan dan kelestarian lingkungannya supaya tetap terjaga sehingga dapat di nikmati oleh generasi-generasi yang akan datang dengan memanfaatkan sumber daya alam yang ada salah satunya adalah pertambangan (emas). Pertambangan yang dilakukan dengan Izin dari pemerintah tentunya tidak akan merusak lingkungan karena kegiatan pertambangan dilakukan sesuai dengan kaidah-kaidahnya, tetapi pertambangan emas tanpa izin (illegal meaning) yang dilakukan secara besar-besaran dan tidak memenuhi standar operasional oleh masyarakat tentunya memberikan dampak yang buruk bagi masyarakat dan juga lingkungannya yaitu dapat merusak lingkungan dan pencemarkan lingkungan, dengan demikian hal tersebut memberikan pengaruh yang sangat besar terhadap pembangunan berkelanjutan. Emas merupakan salah satu kekayaan alam yang dimiliki oleh negara Indonesia. Kegiatan penambangan emas diharapkan dapat mendorong lajunya pertumbuhan ekonomi yang dapat menjadi patokan untuk pembangunan berkelanjutan. Namun, Penambangan emas tanpa izin yang dilakukan secara besar-besaran dan tidak sesuai dengan standar operasional memberikan dampak buruk bagi masyarakat dan lingkungannya sehingga hal tersebut juga memberikan pengaruh yang besar terhadap pembangunan berkelanjutan. Pembangunan berkelanjutan menjadi tantangan dan tugas setiap daerah yang harus dilaksanakan untuk memenuhi kesejahteraan masyarakatnya serta untuk generasi pada masa mendatang