Systematic Sampling Research Articles

Screening of Serum Cholesterol Level Amongst Sri Lankan Women in Relation to Waist-Height Ratio (WHtR), Waist Circumference (WC), Body Mass Index (BMI), Waist-Hip Ratio (WHR), and Waist-Thigh Ratio (WTR): A Cross-Sectional Study

Anthropometric measurements give a general reflection of any changes in lipid concentration in the human body. A disturbed lipid profile can be associated with cardiovascular disease risk. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between serum total cholesterol level and different anthropometric parameters related to obesity in a female population of two administrative areas in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. Analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in Boral and Hiththatiya-Meda areas of Matara district, Sri Lanka. The systematic random sampling method was followed to select 314 females aged 18-60 years. Serum total cholesterol concentration was measured on a venous blood sample by Konelab 20XT biochemistry analyser with a commercially available reagent kit. Body Mass Index (BMI), Waist-Height Ratio (WHtR), Waist Circumference (WC), Waist-Hip Ratio (WHR), and Waist-Thigh Ratio (WTR) parameters were calculated for each individual. Pearson correlation test, chi-squared test and t-test were done to analyse data using SPSS, 16 (P<0.05). The serum total cholesterol concentration is positively associated with abdominal obesity while showing a statistically significant positive correlation with BMI, WC, WHR, WTR and WHtR (r=0.217, r=0.590, r=0.315, r=0.347 and r=0.574 respectively; P≤0.05). The prevalence of hypercholesterolemia in the population was 8.6%. These results indicate that all main anthropometric parameters of this study are positively associated with serum total cholesterol levels and an increment of these risk markers can lead to an increase in risk of developing metabolic diseases associated with abdominal obesity among women.

Predictors of depression among caregivers of patients with severe mental illness in Northwest Ethiopia, 2023: an explanatory sequential mixed-method study.

Severe mental illness results in an enormous social and economic burden on affected individuals, their families, and communities, especially in developing countries, such as Ethiopia. The aim of this study was to assess the level of depression among caregivers of patients with severe mental illness in Debre Tabor Town, Northwest Ethiopia in 2023. This institution-based explanatory mixed study was conducted at Debre Tabor Compressive Specialized Hospitals between September 30 to October 30, 2023. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select 260 study participants, and a public health questionnaire was used to assess depression. Epicollect5 was used to collect data, which were then exported to the SPSS-25 for analysis. Variables with a p-value <0.25 were considered candidates for the multivariate logistic regression analysis. The odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval were used to determine the strength of the association. An in-depth interview was conducted with 11 participants, selected using purposive sampling. The prevalence of depression was 31.3% (95% CI = 29.7-38.6). The multivariate analysis showed that being female (AOD = 2.43, CI = 1.42-7.23), divorced/widowed (AOD = 1.8, CI = 1.32-6.34), poor social support (AOD = 2.2, CI = 1.9-5.87), and perceived stigma (AOD = 2.33, CI = 0.24-13.22) were positively associated with depression. The qualitative results suggest that being female, illiterate, severity of the illness, poor social support, and stigma were factors for depression. The prevalence of depression was high among caregivers of patients with severe mental illness. Female sex, being divorced or widowed, being illiterate, poor social support, and perceived stigma were the contributing factors. This implies that a greater focus on caregivers and the government increases mental health literacy and mental health community services.

Isolation and antimicrobial susceptibility profile of Salmonella species from slaughtered cattle carcasses and abattoir personnel at Dessie, municipality Abattoir, Northeast Ethiopia

BackgroundAntibiotic-resistant Salmonella is one of the main public health concerns in the world. Isolation of Salmonella in abattoirs has been considered the core source of infection in the community from meat. Still, there is limited information on the contamination rate of cattle carcasses.ObjectiveThis study aimed to document the occurrence and antimicrobial susceptibility profile of Salmonella species recovered from cattle carcass and abattoir personnel at Dessie, municipality abattoir, Northeast Ethiopia:MethodsA total of 336 carcass swabs of abdomen, neck, and hind limb from cattle carcasses and 24 stool samples were collected from abattoir personnel using a systematic sampling method from February to April 2019. The collected samples were transported using Cary-Blair transport media and cultivated on Selenite cysteine F-broth, Brilliant green agar, and Xylose-lysine deoxycholate agar plates to isolate Salmonella species. Gram stain, colony morphology, and biochemical tests were performed to identify the isolated bacteria. An antimicrobial susceptibility test for Salmonella was performed using the Kirby-Bauer Disc Diffusion method. Descriptive statistics; both bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed using SPSS version 25 software. P-value < 0.05 at 95% CI was considered statistically significant.ResultsThe prevalence of salmonella species was 8%(27/336) from all samples.‘The prevalence of Salmonella isolates in cattle carcass and abattoir personnel was 8%(25/312) and 8.3%(2/24) respectively. The antimicrobial test showed that Salmonella species were 100% resistant to ampicillin, 59.3% to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, 59.3% to tetracycline, and 55.6% to amoxicillin/clavulanate. From the total antimicrobial tested bacteria, 81.5%(22/27) were resistant to three and above classes of antibiotics (drug classes). Unwashed knives, carcasses, and hands of butchers during slaughtering were significantly associated (p < 0.05) with Salmonella found in carcasses.ConclusionsSalmonella isolation rates from cattle carcasses were high, with the bacteria showing notable resistance to most tested antibiotics. Poor hygiene practices, unsanitized equipment, and unhygienic beef processing were contributing factors.

The effect of financial skills and strategies toward saving behavior among self-employed workers in retirement planning

This paper aimed to investigate essential factors of financial skills and financial strategies that influence retirement savings behavior among self-employed workers. Many retirement savings schemes are being introduced by regulatory bodies or financial institutions, especially for self-employed workers on a voluntary basis, but many people's efforts to save for retirement are stalled. However, the participation of self-employed workers in those schemes is still low as people have financial instability or lack of knowledge in matters. The quantitative approach is applied by distributing a systematic random sampling of 400 prospective respondents. The outcome was analyzed using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) indicates that savings behavior financial skill, financial strategies, and demographics positively moderated relationship. This study adds to the existing knowledge on financial skills as well as financial strategies towards saving objectives for self-employed, with practical implications for promoting positive saving habits and improving financial well-being across all age groups. Policymakers might use the data to create targeted programs that specifically target self-employed workers and promote responsible saving and financial security across generations. The authorities should construct a comprehensive fixed retirement scheme for self-employed workers based on these characteristics so that self-employed workers have secure and stable financial security after retirement.

Length of stay and associated factors among pediatric patients in the pediatric emergency unit of the Tikur Anbessa specialized hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

BackgroundLength of stay in the emergency department is used as a quality indicator to gauge the overall efficiency of emergency care. The performance measure was used to evaluate the quality of care provided in the emergency department.ObjectiveTo assess the length of stay and associated factors among pediatric patients admitted to the pediatric emergency unit of Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.MethodsAn institution-based prospective cross-sectional study design was employed. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. Data were collected via semi-structured, interviewer-administered questionnaires and chart reviews. Analysis was performed via the Statistical Package for Social Science software version 27. Binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify variables associated with the length of stay. The study was conducted in the Pediatric Emergency Unit of Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from March 15 to April 15, 2023.ResultsA total of 268 patients participated in the study, with a response rate of 97.81%. The majority of the participants were male (157, 58.6%), with a median age of 3 years. The study revealed that 180 participants (67.2%) experienced a prolonged length of stay. The variables significantly associated with prolonged length of stay included residency (AOR = 2.04, CI: 1.03, 4.025), triage category (AOR = 3.25, CI: 1.08, 5.974), number of investigations (AOR = 2.381, CI: 1.038, 5.462), and waiting for imaging (AOR = 4.230, CI: 1.638, 10.93).ConclusionMany pediatric patients stayed in the emergency room for more than 24 h because of factors such as residency, triage category, number of investigations, and the need for imaging. To address this, we recommend streamlining triage processes, increasing imaging resources, providing additional staff training, developing integrated care pathways, and advocating for policy changes to increase emergency room efficiency and improve patient outcomes.

NGOs' initiatives and grassroots approach for accessing to health care services for the slum people in Dhaka.

This study holds significant importance as it aims to delve into the impactful NGOs' initiatives and grassroots approaches instrumental in providing healthcare services to Dhaka's underserved slum people. It focuses on understanding how these factors influence the use and access to health services, which is a crucial aspect for researchers, policymakers, and healthcare professionals. This study was meticulously designed, utilizing a comprehensive cross-sectional mixed-methods design. By incorporating qualitative and quantitative data collection methods, we ensured a thorough understanding of NGOs' initiatives and grassroots approaches to providing healthcare services to slum dwellers in Dhaka, thereby instilling confidence in the validity of our research for the audience. A face-to-face interview was used to survey the participants (n = 722) using semi-structured questionnaires, following a systematic sampling technique. Four focus group discussions (FGDs) were also conducted with the slum people. Binary logistic regression was performed to know NGOs' initiatives, roles, and grassroots approach as predictors or independent variables and healthcare services as an outcome or dependent variable. The quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0. At the same time, thematic analysis was conducted following Philip Adu's Qualitative data analysis process and Braun and Clarke's six steps of the thematic analysis system, integrating the 11 subthemes with the quantitative findings to highlight the interpretative findings of the qualitative data. Major findings revealed that NGOs' initiative roles and grassroots approach had a significant impact on slum dwellers' use and access to healthcare services. The initiatives included affordable health services (OR = 22.86, 95% CI = 3.87, 35.00, P = 0.01), special health services (OR = 5.63, 95% CI = 3.36, 9.42, P = 0.00), engagement of responsible community leaders (OR = 1.72, 95% CI = 1.14, 2.59, P = 0.01), distribution of health and medicine items (OR = 1.92, 95% 2 CI = 1.40, 2.63, P = 0.01), provision of updated information to slum dwellers (OR = 1.37, 95% CI = .99, 1.90, P = 0.05), telehealth and telemedicine (OR = 1.82, 95% CI = 1.55, 2.13, P = 0.01), BCC strategy (OR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.00, 1.57, P = 0.05), and doorstep services as NGOs' grassroots approach (OR = 1.84, 95% CI = 1.00, 3.38, P = 0.05). Qualitative findings supported the quantitative findings through 2 main themes and 11 sub-themes, which were integrated with quantitative findings to highlight the interpretative findings of qualitative data. Health services and other facilities for urban slum people through NGOs' initiatives and grassroots approaches are highly affordable and practical, special health services with the involvement of special exceptional health professionals, community supportive services, BCC strategies, and doorstep health services may trigger the use and access to health services for slum dwellers. Results suggest and recommend capitalizing and investing in such initiatives and grassroots approaches from the government, policymakers, and donors with NGOs to find accessible, affordable health services for the unprivileged slum people.

SD-MDN-TM: A traceback and mitigation integrated mechanism against DDoS attacks with IP spoofing

Traceback has been very attractive against DDoS attacks with IP spoofing instead of traditional mitigation methods because attacks require removal near attackers, resulting in affecting legitimate traffic as little as possible. There have been some approaches dedicated to achieving effective traceback. However, existing approaches often modify protocols to apply to multi-domain scenarios, and the implemented mitigation usually lags behind traceback. Therefore, this paper proposes the Software-Defined Multi-Domain Network Tracer and Mitigator (SD-MDN-TM) to traceback and mitigate DDoS attacks with IP spoofing in multi-domain SDN scenarios. We apply systematic sampling and flow feature extraction based on the Count-Min Sketch data structure for the lightweight statistics collection of massive DDoS attack traffic. We also design the TracebackTree data structure to construct the traceback paths of attackers of distributed attack sources. The Border Switch Trigger Mechanism is proposed to overcome the drawbacks of the commonly-used packet marking in cross-domain traceback information transfer, achieving no modification of existing network protocols and independent traceback among multiple domains. Mitigation is integrated with traceback for faster removal of attacks from the network. The proposed scheme can traceback DDoS attack sources both inside and outside domains accurately and effectively by constructing traceback path. It can be implemented without modifying the existing protocols, therefore achieving direct application to the existing network architecture. Furthermore, the traceback of attack sources outside domains can maintain independence in multi-domain scenarios. Mitigation integrated with traceback can achieve less impact on legitimate traffic and faster removal of attacks from the network.

RETENTION OF TEACHERS ON STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN KAKAMEGA COUNTY, KENYA

Teachers’ retention in schools has been necessary because it enhances academic attainment. The gist of this study was to evaluate the effect of teachers' retention on students’ academic achievement in public secondary schools in Kakamega County. The study was guided by Education Production Function Theory (EPFT), Theory of Constraint (TOC) and Social Exchange Theory (SET). The target population was 268 public secondary Schools, 1500 teachers, 268 principals and one (1) County staffing officer. The sample size of 30% of the population was deemed to be adequate. The sampling techniques were simple random sampling, stratified sampling and systematic sampling. Data collection procedures were done with the help of administering questionnaires to respondents, document analysis and interview schedules were the major principal instruments used. The validity of the research instruments was assessed with the help of two research supervisors from Kisii University. The reliability of the index of 0.7 for teachers and 0.89 for principals was obtained using a test-retest approach. Data presentation was done with the help of tables, graphs and pie charts. A mixed research method was used. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23 was used for data analysis. Findings revealed that 38 (9.3%) teachers had left on promotion, 240 (59%) voluntarily and 129 involuntarily (31.7%). The study revealed, therefore, that most teachers (over 66%) either left voluntarily or on promotion. The study recommended that since most teachers either left voluntarily or on promotion, this was their right, while others were retained to ensure stability without interference through uncalled-for transfers, which enhanced students’ academic achievement. The study was undertaken by ensuring that ethical considerations for research were put into perspective, such as informed consent from participants and non-usage of unethical language as a means to obtain data from respondents.&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt; Article visualizations:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src="/-counters-/soc/0764/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Health Literacy in Preventing and Controlling Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever Among Village Health Volunteer, Pattani Province, Thailand

Background: Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus (DENV). The situation of the DHF prevalence rate was still high in the community. One reason for this high rate involves community members, who had less participated in the prevention and control measures of DHF. Objectives: This descriptive study aimed to study factors associated with preventing and controlling DHF among village health volunteer, Pattani Province. Methods: Population consisted of 6,841 village health volunteers registered in Pattani Province, Thailand, in fiscal year 2020, and the sample size was calculated using Daniel formula for 215 cases, and systematic random sampling was carried out for collecting data. Data were collected by questionnaires composed of 3 parts, including characteristics, health literacy factors, and preventing and controlling DHF. In addition to check questionnaire standardization, validity was checked by three experts and try out testing reliability by Cronbach’s coefficient alpha about 0.87. Data were analysed using statistical as Pearson product moment correlation coefficient and Stepwise Multiple Regression Analysis. Results: The analysis found that health literacy factors were associated with preventing and controlling DHF among village health volunteer, Pattani Province such as access skill (r=0.310, p-value&lt;0.001) communication skill (r=0.201, p-value=0.003) media literacy skill (r=0.386, p-value&lt;0.001) decision skill (r=0.349, p-value&lt;0.001) self-management skill (r=0.480, p-value&lt;0.001), respectively. Conversely, cognitive skill had no association (r=0.117, p-value=0.086). Conclusion: The finding showed that health literacy of village health volunteer was associated with the preventing and controlling DHF. Therefore, health workers should encourage the village health volunteers to participate in sustainable prevention and control of DHF.

Prevalence of Anemia and its associated factors among 6–59 months age children visiting public hospitals at Afar Region, Northeast Ethiopia: a hospital-based cross-sectional study

BackgroundAnemia is a significant global public health issue among children aged 6 to 59 months, particularly in low-income countries like Ethiopia. Studies focusing on pastoral communities, especially in the Afar Region, often underestimate the prevalence of anemia in these children. To address this information gap, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of anemia and its associated factors among children aged 6 to 59 months in public hospitals in the Afar Region of northeastern Ethiopia.MethodA hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among children aged 6 to 59 months, using systematic random sampling, at public hospitals in the Afar Region from February 28 to April 30, 2023.The data collection tool was adapted from the Ethiopian National Food Consumption Survey and the World Health Organization Infant and Young Child Feeding guidelines. Data entry was performed using EpiData version 4.2 and Anthroplus software for anthropometric measurements. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26. Binary logistic regression models were applied to identify predictors of anemia, with a p-value of ≤ 0.05 considered statistically significant.ResultAmong the 306 children aged 6 to 59 months, the overall prevalence of anemia was 46.41 (95 CI: 43.8–48.9 ). Of the 142 anemic children aged 6 to 59 months, 62 (43.66 ) had mild anemia, 60 (42.25 ) had moderate anemia, and 20 (14.08 ) had severe anemia. Key factors associated with anemia included mothers with no formal education, the lowest family monthly income, a family size greater than five, and rural residence. Additionally, a previous diagnosis of parasitic infection, children aged 24–35 months, early weaning, a malaria diagnosis within the past three months, and diarrhea in the last two weeks were significant predictors of anemia in children aged 6 to 59 months.ConclusionIn the current study, anemia in children aged 6 to 59 months was classified as severe and is regarded as a critical public health issue. This suggests that more efforts should be made to significantly decrease anemia by actively involving rural mothers with no formal education and low income who have children aged 6–59 months, focusing on the prevention and management of malaria, diarrhea, and parasitic infections.

Willingness to use remote patient monitoring among cardiovascular patients in a resource-limited setting: a cross-sectional study

IntroductionCurrently, mortality by non-communicable diseases is increasing alarmingly. They account for approximately 35 million deaths each year, of which 14% are due to cardiovascular disease and 9.2% occur in Africa. Patients do not have access to healthcare services outside the healthcare setting, resulting in missed follow-ups and appointments and adverse outcomes. This study aimed to assess the willingness to use remote monitoring among cardiovascular patients in a resource-limited setting in Ethiopia.MethodAn institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April to June 2021 among cardiovascular patients at referral hospitals in Ethiopia. A structured interview questionnaire was used to collect the data. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select 397 study participants. Binary and multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed and a 95% confidence level with a p-value &amp;lt;0.05 was used to determine the level of association between variables.ResultIn total, 81.61% of the study participants were willing to use remote patient monitoring [95% confidence interval (CI) = 77.4%–85.1%]. Age [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.94; 95% CI: 0.90–0.98], having a mobile phone (AOR = 5.70; 95% CI: 1.86–17.22), and perceived usefulness (AOR = 1.50; 95% CI: 1.18–1.82) were significantly associated with willingness to use remote patient monitoring among cardiovascular patients.ConclusionCardiovascular patients had a high willingness to use remote patient monitoring. Age, perceived usefulness of remote patient monitoring, and having a mobile phone were significantly associated with a willingness to use remote patient monitoring.

Seeking Dental Healthcare in the Context of COVID-19 Pandemic: A Study Examining the Health Belief Model

Abstract Background and Objectives The main purpose of the study was to examine the factors influencing older adults’ seeking dental care, in the context of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, based on the Health Belief Model (HBM). Research Design and Methods Phone interviews were conducted using a structured questionnaire, among 200 older adults aged 65 and above, who are members of the Israeli largest sick fund Clalit Health Services, that were sampled through a systematic random sample. The data were collected between January 2022 and March 2022 and during September 2022. Results Our findings indicate that since the outbreak of COVID-19 in Israel, 61.5% and 55% of the participants reported visiting a dentist and a dental hygienist, respectively, and about a fifth of the participants have foregone care at both. Seeking dental care was associated with an increase in perceived threat, benefits, willingness to seek care, and with a decrease in perceived barriers. The HBM was found to be a suitable framework for illuminating older adults’ dental behavior, which explains 43% of the variance. Discussion and Implications The results of the study provided first-hand findings regarding seeking dental care during the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings emphasize the importance of providing dental services with clear recommendations about dental care and appropriate protective equipment, even under conditions of health concern, to enhance oral health services utilization.

Fourier coded aperture transform rapid spectral imaging

The Fourier coded aperture transform hyperspectral imaging system (FCTS), which we proposed in our previous work, has excellent physical interpretability compared to other encoding methods. Due to the excellent energy concentration characteristic of Fourier encoding, it can achieve high-quality spectral imaging even under undersampling conditions. However, since the grayscale encoding method limits the system's sampling speed, we propose a binary sampling Fourier-encoded spectral imaging method. Besides, to address the significant errors of reconstructed spectral image at low sampling rates, we construct a spectral image enhancement network, which introduces spatial and channel attention modules to successively enhance the spatial and spectral information of the reconstructed spectral images. During the spectral image refinement and enhancement stage, band grouping is performed to alleviate the difficulty in feature extraction and make the training process more stable. The effectiveness of our proposed method has been validated on both public datasets and our own datasets. When the sampling times are reduced by an order of magnitude, on the three public datasets, the PSNR improved by 10.79 dB, the SSIM increased by 0.35, and the SAM decreased by 12.1° on average. On our own datasets, the PSNR improved by 12 dB, the SSIM increased by 0.24, and the SAM decreased by 6.5°.

Fallo de medro: no siempre acierta, pero sí alerta

&lt;/jats:p&gt; &lt;/jats:abstract&gt; &lt;publication_date media_type='online'&gt; &lt;month&gt;09&lt;/month&gt; &lt;day&gt;10&lt;/day&gt; &lt;year&gt;2024&lt;/year&gt; &lt;/publication_date&gt; &lt;doi_data&gt; &lt;doi&gt;10.60147/0ee7e710&lt;/doi&gt; &lt;resource&gt;https://pap.es/articulo/14232/fallo-de-medro-no-siempre-acierta-pero-si-alerta&lt;/resource&gt; &lt;/doi_data&gt; &lt;/journal_article&gt; &lt;!-- ============== --&gt;&lt;journal_article publication_type='full_text'&gt; &lt;titles&gt;&lt;title&gt;Profile of the limping child &lt;/title&gt;&lt;original_language_title&gt;Perfil del paciente con claudicación de la marcha &lt;/original_language_title&gt; &lt;/titles&gt; &lt;contributors&gt; &lt;person_name sequence='first' contributor_role='author'&gt; &lt;given_name&gt;Verónica&lt;/given_name&gt; &lt;surname&gt;Gimeno-Hernández &lt;/surname&gt; &lt;/person_name&gt;&lt;person_name sequence='additional' contributor_role='author'&gt; &lt;given_name&gt;Álvaro &lt;/given_name&gt; &lt;surname&gt;García&lt;/surname&gt; &lt;/person_name&gt;&lt;person_name sequence='additional' contributor_role='author'&gt; &lt;given_name&gt;Marisol &lt;/given_name&gt; &lt;surname&gt;Camacho&lt;/surname&gt; &lt;/person_name&gt;&lt;/contributors&gt; &lt;jats:abstract xml:lang='en'&gt; &lt;jats:p&gt;Introduction: lameness is a frequent reason for primary care and emergency department visits. Material and methods: observational, longitudinal, retrospective study in patients who presented with lameness to the emergency department of a tertiary care hospital between 2019-2022. Patients were included by systematic random sampling. The study variables were: age, sex, time from onset, associated symptoms, history of trauma, personal and family history, source of referral (provider vs self), examination findings, diagnostic tests and results, treatment, diagnosis in emergency department, final diagnosis, aetiological group and discharge destination. Results: 321 patients, 65.1% male, with a mean age of 5.5 ± 3.4 years. Sixty percent sought care within 24 hours of onset and 81.6% were self-referred. Diagnostic tests were ordered in 87.5% (X-rays in 55.7%). The most common aetiology was inflammatory (29%), chiefly on account of transient synovitis (24%). We found an association between provider referral and a higher priority in triage (p=0.03), the use of ultrasound (p=0.009) and referral to outpatient specialists (p=0.003). The mean age of patients with abnormal sonographic findings (5.65 years) was higher compared to patients with normal results (3.84 years). There were also mean differences in the ages of the different aetiological groups (p=0.000) and in the different diagnoses made in the emergency department (p=0.002). We found an association between the presence of previous symptoms and the aetiological group (p=0.000) and between the time elapsed from onset to the visit and the aetiological group (p=0.002), interconsultation with traumatology (p=0.000) and destination after discharge (p =0.000). Conclusions: most causes of lameness are banal, but a high index of suspicion should be maintained for less frequent alternative diagnosis that may have more serious repercussions, such as JIA.

Service Quality and Customer Perceived Value as Predictors of Cooperative Members Satisfaction

This study aimed to identify the aspects of Service Quality and Customer Perceived Value that significantly predict cooperative Member Satisfaction, thereby providing insights into enhancing member retention and loyalty within cooperatives. A quantitative, non-experimental correlational methodology was employed, surveying 361 cooperative members in Kapalong, Davao del Norte. Systematic random sampling was used to ensure representativeness. Data were analyzed using mean scores, Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient, and Multiple Regression Analysis. The findings indicated that respondents exhibited significantly high levels of Service Quality, Customer Perceived Value, and Member Satisfaction. A significant correlation was found between Customer Perceived Value and Member Satisfaction. Key domains of Customer Perceived Value, including emotional value, functional value (price), social value, functional value (installations), functional value (professionalism), and functional value (service quality), were identified as predictors of Member Satisfaction. This research confirms the principles of value-percept theory and the Expectancy-Disconfirmation Paradigm (EDP), contributing to the understanding of how perceived value influences member satisfaction in cooperative settings. The results underscore the importance of these factors in strategic planning and service improvement initiatives within cooperatives.

Factors influencing cross-departmental collaborative performance: evidence from 452 water governance cases in Guangzhou, China

In addressing complex public issues, cross-departmental collaboration encounters challenges that require identification of factors critical to its effectiveness. This study collected data from 452 cases of water governance in Guangzhou using systematic sampling methods, and empirically examined three major perspectives on cross-departmental collaborative performance in them. Modeling results revealed a significant and positive correlation between leaders’ attention to water environmental governance and cross-departmental collaborative performance. Conversely, power fragmentation negatively impacted performance. Greater public participation in water environmental governance was significantly associated with improved cross-departmental performance. This study comprehensively assesses the collaborative performance by incorporating process-oriented and outcome-based dimensions for systematic examination of underexplored questions of horizontal cross-departmental collaboration, going beyond the scope of prior research, which has primarily centered on cross-regional collaboration. Moreover, it offers a refined analytical framework incorporating internal bureaucratic factors and external forces, with an emphasis on the role of public involvement as an independent factor for shaping collaboration. This study contributes to the theoretical understanding of cross-departmental collaborative performance in the Chinese context as a developing country that faces obstacles in decentralized and uncoordinated water governance structures.

Effects of Hidden Costs of Fee-Free Education On Students Academic Attainment in Public Secondary Schools in Karatu District, Tanzania

This study aimed at investigating the effects of hidden costs of fee-free education on students’ academic attainment in ordinary level secondary schools in Karatu district, Tanzania. The study employed convergent research resign which used both qualitative and quantitative designs. The study was conducted in 14 public secondary schools selected randomly from 31 public secondary schools in the Karatu district. The sample size was 318, consisting of form four students selected using systematic random sampling whereas fourteen parents, fourteen Head of School’s and fourteen Ward Executive Officers were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires and semi structured interview guide. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The study found that hidden costs had severe effects on students’ academic attainment. Other negative phenomena found to result from hidden costs include truancy and lack of concentration in class. Based on the findings the study concludes that there are serious negative consequences associated with hidden costs and consequently, in free education provision, hidden costs can be counterproductive, potentially able to decrease the chances of attaining the objectives of free education provision. The study recommends that strategies in free education provision should further expand to counterbalance costs of education. Strategies targeted at enhancing general improvements in people’s wellbeing and livelihood are also measures required to enhance the capacity of parents to shoulder the burden of education.

Comparison of blood lead levels between battery recycling workers and controls in Northern Nigeria

ABSTRACT About 80% of the global lead production is consumed by the battery industry. As old batteries are increasingly being recycled without adequate recourse to safety and protection in many developing countries, there is well-documented evidence of lead poisoning among the workers. This study compared blood lead levels (BLL) of battery recycling workers (BRW) with controls in Northern Nigeria. This cross-sectional study assessed the BLL of BRW (self-employed informal workers, n = 98) and controls (healthcare workers, n = 98). Respondents were selected using systematic random sampling from the lists of BRW and healthcare workers. All respondents in the two groups were males, matched for age (27.81 ± 7.2, 27.67 ± 7.0 years; p = 0.890). The mean BLL was significantly higher (p < 0.001) among the BRW compared to the controls (40.17 ± 4.2 and 3.61 ± 0.4 µg/dL, respectively), with 78.1% of the BRW having elevated BLL (≥20.0 µg/dL) and none (0.0%) of the controls having elevated BLL. Logistic regression shows none of the variables was an independent predictor of BLL in this study, implying battery reclamation as the main source of lead. Federal and state government policies should ban informal battery recycling and emphasize on plants through national collection system to consolidate used batteries only to smelters that meet minimum regulatory requirements.

Platelet indices as predictors of poor glucoregulation in type 2 diabetes mellitus adults at Bishoftu General Hospital, Ethiopia.

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic syndrome that has become a global public health problem with significant morbidity and mortality. It is a pro-inflammatory and pro-thrombotic condition characterized by increased platelet activation and alterations in platelet indices. However, the use of platelet indices as predictors of poor glucoregulation has not been fully evaluated in this context, and evidence for their role as predictors of poor glycemic status in diabetic patients is limited. To evaluate platelet indices and determine their prognostic significance in relation to inadequate glucoregulation among individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at Bishoftu General Hospital in Ethiopia, from June 15 to August 12, 2022. A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted in 261 participants including 174 individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and 87 non-diabetic controls. The systematic random sampling technique was used to select par-ticipants. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, physical measurements, checklists, and laboratory tests. Platelet parameters and fasting blood glucose levels were determined from blood samples using Sysmex-XN550 and CobasC311 analyzers, respectively. The hematology analyzer output was checked and participants were also screened for malaria parasites using a prepared blood smear. Collected data were entered into Epi-data version 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 25 for analysis. The χ 2 test, Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis test, post hoc test, Spearman correlation, and receiver operating characteristic curve were used for analysis. A P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The results of our study indicate that diabetic patients have significantly higher levels of platelet distribution width (PDW), mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet large cell ratio (PLCR), and plateletcrit (PCT) compared to healthy individuals (P < 0.001). Furthermore, these indices were found to be significantly elevated in individuals with poor glycemic control in T2DM compared to those with good glycemic control and healthy controls. We also observed significant correlations between these indices and various anthropometric and clinical variables. Our findings suggest that PDW, with a cut-off value of 15.75 fL and an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.803, MPV, with a cut-off value of 12.25 fL and an AUC of 0.774, PLCR, with a cut-off value of 36.3% and an AUC of 0.775, and PCT, with a cut-off value of 0.24% and an AUC of 0.761, can serve as predictors of poor glycemic control in patients with diabetes mellitus. The observed correlation between diabetic patients and a significant increase in platelet indices has highlighted their potential as predictors of poor glycemic control in diabetes. Therefore, regular screening and profiling of platelet indices is recommended as part of the follow-up process for individuals with diabetes mellitus.

A Comparative Study on the Dietary Iodine Intake and the Contribution Rates of Various Foods to the Dietary Iodine Intake among Residents in Zhejiang in 2010 and 2022.

We aim to analyze the changes in dietary iodine intake and the contribution rates of various foods to it after the reduction in salt iodine concentration in Zhejiang. We used data from two cross-sectional nutrition surveillance surveys conducted by the Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention in 2010 (9798 residents) and 2022 (5980 residents). In both surveys, multi-stage stratified and systematic sampling were adopted, and uniformly trained investigators conducted the dietary surveys using a 24 h dietary review and weighing record methods for 3 consecutive days. From 2010 to 2022, the median salt iodine concentration and the consumption rate of qualified iodized salt in Zhejiang households dropped from 28.80 to 22.08 mg/kg and from 76.65% to 64.20%, respectively. Moreover, the residents' median dietary iodine intake decreased from 277.48 to 142.05 μg/d. Significant interregional differences in dietary iodine intake were found in 2010 and 2022 (H = 639.175, p < 0.001; H = 588.592, p < 0.001, respectively); however, no significant differences existed between urban and rural areas (p > 0.05). From 2010 to 2022, the proportion of residents with dietary iodine intake below the estimated average requirement increased from 15.10% to 34.80%, while that of residents with intake above the tolerable upper limit decreased from 15.00% to 2.90%. The contribution rate of salt to dietary iodine intake among residents in Zhejiang decreased from 74.92% to 48.54%, showing an apparent overall downward trend despite the dietary intake being generally adequate (markedly inadequate in coastal regions). The salt iodine concentration and the consumption rate of qualified iodized salt in households in Zhejiang showed downward trends. Salt remained the main source of dietary iodine; however, its contribution decreased significantly. Zhejiang may need to reverse the trend of the continuous decline in the consumption rate of qualified iodized salt to protect the health of its residents.