Peace research in non-violence contexts: a case study among the Southwest Nigerian Yorùbá

I analyse the abilities of peaceful communities to maintain harmony by making a case study of the Southwest Nigerian Yorùbá in this research. I examine the potential of Yorùbá Christians and Muslims to manage their disputes, crises, and conflicts to avoid violence and maintain peace within their host Yorùbá culture, religion, and values. The qualitative method of inquiry used here involved focus groups and interviews to generate primary data, which I analysed with thick description. One of the main findings showed that the existing Ẹbí (family) theory among the Yorùbá played a significant role in sustaining peace. This theory focuses on the idea of family as the means to keep the Yorùbá in harmony during conflicts. This study, however, further found that the idea of the family alone was insufficient for dealing with the complexity of conflict situations. In addition to the family theory, the Yorùbá Muslims and Christians use other features within the Yorùbá culture, religion, and social life in creative and positive ways to maintain harmony. Such abilities do not exonerate the Yorùbá from occasional conflicts as in many human societies, but they are positive illustrations of their potential to keep the peace. Could these abilities of the Yorùbá meet the requirements of peaceful societies and be given recognition by scholars? This work, although being a research in peace studies also has relevance for anthropology, Christian-Muslim relations, cultural and African studies. Future studies can focus more communities for a better understanding of peace as a contribution to peace and conflict studies

Anomaly Effects of Arrays for 3d Geoelectrical Resistivity Imaging using Orthogonal or Parallel 2d Profiles

The effectiveness of using a net of orthogonal or parallel sets of two-dimensional (2D) profiles for threedimensional (3D) geoelectrical resistivity imaging has been evaluated. A series of 2D apparent resistivity data were generated over two synthetic models which represent geological or environmental conditions for a typical weathered profile and waste dump site, respectively, commonly associated with geophysical applications for hydrogeological, environmental and engineering investigations. Several minimum electrode separations and inter-line spacing were used to generate the apparent resistivity data for each electrode array with a view to determining the optimum inter-line spacing relative to the minimum electrode separation. The 2D apparent resistivity data for each array were collated to 3D data sets. The effectiveness and efficiency of the arrays in 3D geoelectrical resistivity imaging were evaluated by determining the mean absolute anomaly effects of the electrodes arrays on the synthetic models. The anomaly effects observed in dipole-dipole (DDP), pole-dipole (PDP) and Wenner- Schlumberger (WSC) arrays were generally larger than that observed in other arrays considered. The least anomaly effect on the synthetic models was observed in pole-pole (PP) array. This indicates that DDP, PDP and WSC arrays are more sensitive to 3D features. In all the arrays, the anomaly effects observed in the data set generated using the conventional square grids were slightly larger than those from parallel or orthogonal 2D profiles. This slight increase is attributed to the increased data density and is insignificant when compared with those of parallel and orthogonal 2D profiles. Hence, the use of parallel or orthogonal 2D profiles for 3D geoelectrical resistivity survey is effective

Effectiveness of 3D Geoelectrical Resistivity Imaging using Parallel 2D Profiles

Acquisition geometry for 3D geoelectrical resistivity imaging in which apparent resistivity data of a set of parallel 2D profiles are collated to 3D dataset was evaluated. A set of parallel 2D apparent resistivity data was generated over two model structures. The models, horst and trough, simulate the geological environment of a weathered profile and refuse dump site in a crystalline basement complex respectively. The apparent resistivity data were generated for Wenner–alpha, Wenner–beta, Wenner–Schlumberger, dipole–dipole, pole–dipole and pole–pole arrays with minimum electrode separation, a (a = 2, 4, 5 and 10 m) and inter-line spacing, L (L = a, 2a, 2.5a, 4a, 5a and 10a). The 2D apparent resistivity data for each of the arrays were collated to 3D dataset and inverted using a full 3D inversion code. The 3D imaging capability and resolution of the arrays for the set of parallel 2D profiles are presented. Grid orientation effects are observed in the inversion images produced. Inter-line spacing of not greater than four times the minimum electrode separation gives reasonable inverse models. The resolution of the inverse models can be greatly improved if the 3D dataset is built by collating sets of orthogonal 2D profile

Nontraumatic bilateral atypical femoral fractures associated with long-term alendronate therapy

Alendronate is a bisphosphonate commonly used in the treatment of post-menopausal and steroid-associated osteoporosis. Bisphosphonates have an evidence base for reducing the occurrence of typical osteoporotic fractures. However, there has been growing recognition of a correlation with the use of long-term therapy with bisphosphonates, and rare occurrence of atypical femoral fractures (AFFs). This report describes a 72-year-old caucasian woman presenting with evolving groin and thigh pains of two weeks duration. Plain X-rays noted features compatible with bilateral impending femoral subtrochanteric fractures. She had been taking oral alendronate 70mg weekly for ten consecutive years as treatment for osteoporosis. Based on the medication history, the absence of preceding trauma or a fall, and the presence of supportive radiological findings, the diagnosis was made of impending bilateral proximal femur fractures secondary to long-term bisphosphonate therapy. The alendronate was discontinued, and the patient managed with two planned successive surgeries involving the insertion of intertrochanteric antegrade nails (inter-TAN) to both femurs. Following a period of rehabilitation, she was successfully discharged home. Some pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic considerations of bisphosphonates are discussed. The write-up presents a brief literature review of AFFs. The index report is further reviewed in relation to the American society for bone and mineral research (ASBMR) task force’s recommended case definition of what constitutes AFFs. The discussion concludes with the application of two previously validated causality assessment systems (CAS). In this instance, both CAS indicated a ‘probable’ classification for the adverse drug reaction (ADR) to prolonged usage of oral alendronate

Nitrofurantoin associated pulmonary fibrosis

This report describes the case of an 83 years old woman presenting to hospital due to a fall, and acute confusion. On admission, she was diagnosed as having clinical and plain X-ray features of a pneumonia. Following treatment and recovery from the pneumonia, she was noted to have persistent clinical signs of bilateral lung crackles on auscultation. A high-resolution computerised tomography scan showed signs of interstitial lung disease consistent with pulmonary fibrosis. Of relevance was a medication history that indicated oral nitrofurantoin had been initiated in primary care for the long-term prophylaxis of recurrent urinary tract infections. Given the prolonged duration of use of ten years, we considered the possibility of this being an adverse drug reaction in the form of nitrofurantoin associated pulmonary fibrosis. This report also briefly reviews the relevant literature on nitrofurantoin associated pulmonary fibrosis and to promote objectivity in the pharmacovigilance related reporting. The report has been reviewed with the aid of two validated causality assessment systems

Student selected components as an educational platform for teaching medical students about clinical pharmacology and quality improvement activities

Student selected components (SSCs) are increasingly described elements of medical undergraduate education, training and curricula. SSCs offer the potential for integration into both traditional (‘pre-clinical’ versus ‘clinical’) medical curricula, as well as into other innovative or evolving medical training curricula. This article employs a structured and descriptive approach to exemplify the process by which year 1 medical students were supported in a practical manner to undertake a distinct small group SSC project. In this illustration, the SSC was focused on a quality improvement (QI) topic of relevance to clinical pharmacology and therapeutics (CPT), and involved a review of the anticholinergic burden of inpatient prescriptions for a defined cohort. The SSC was completed in the context of a teaching hospital’s medicine of the elderly (MoE) clinical service. In a sequential manner, the paper describes experiential learning points from the perspective of a supervisor of an SSC project. The paper offers educational value with a potential for generalisable application to non-clinical and clinical educationalists. Furthermore, the paper offers guidance to supervisors, teachers, tutors and facilitators, with encouragement to consider how they may design similar projects for the training of undergraduate medical students in centres that they are affiliated with. The paper also highlights another key driver for productive SSCs i.e. the central principle of striving to promote projects and activities that support active student engagement, rather than merely passive inclusion

Serotonin syndrome due to duloxetine and tramadol use in an older patient

This case report describes a 92-year old woman presenting with acute confusion and agitation. She was initially diagnosed as having a hyperactive delirium. However, based on the presence of additional and evolving features of twitchiness, reduced coordination, palpitations and headaches, the diagnosis was re-evaluated. The clinical presentation was subsequently recognised as being that of the serotonin syndrome. In this instance, the serotonin syndrome was judged to have arisen from the concurrent use of duloxetine and tramadol. Duloxetine is an antidepressant with serotonergic properties. Tramadol is an analgesic agent with weak opiate agonist receptor effects, and also exerts reuptake inhibition of noradrenaline and serotonin. The patient’s polypharmacy was reviewed, and alongside other general supportive care measures, her symptoms and signs resolved within 48 hours. This report serves as a clinical reminder on the potential pitfalls of polypharmacy in older patients. Delirium is a common presentation in older patients, and on occasions, clearly establishing the underlying causes or risk factors may prove challenging or even elusive. The report prompts clinicians to bear in mind that the presentation and diagnosis of the serotonin syndrome requires a high index of suspicion, and that patients may present atypically. In support of pharmacovigilance reporting, two scales of causality assessment are employed in this case review. The application of these systems exemplifies their potential in promoting and enhancing objectivity when clinicians report suspected adverse drug reactions (ADRs) noted in routine clinical practice

Metronidazole associated seizures: a case report and review of the pharmacovigilance literature

Seizures are a rare side-effect associated with the use of metronidazole. This report describes the case of an 83-year old patient with previous cerebral injury in whom new onset seizures were triggered soon after the commencement of treatment with metronidazole at conventional adult doses for Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhoea.A brief review of the medical pharmacovigilance literature in relation to metronidazole and seizures is presented. Two causality assessment systems are applied to the index case report, to illustrate their potential use in supporting increased objectivity when reporting suspected ADRs in clinical practice

Relationships between selected characteristics of Tennessee broiler producers, their production operations and their use of recommended management practices

The purposes of the study were: (1) to characterize Tennessee broiler producers and their farming operations; (2) to identify practices they were using; (3) to study factors influencing practice adoption and (4) to characterize Tennessee broiler contracts in terms of type and content. Extension agents interviewed 123 randomly selected broiler growers in the Fall of 1982, in a state-wide survey. Analysis of variance and Chi-square statistics were used to determine relations between six dependent variables and 30 independent variables. Dependent variables included: mean house capacity; mean years having grown broilers; main source of income; future plans; mean total Extension contacts; and mean percent of total practices used. Independent variables included: 15 recommended management practices and 15 characteristics, including six used as dependent variables plus nine others. Regarding characteristics of broiler growers and their opera-tions, it was found that: (1) mean broiler house capacity was 31,500 birds; (2) growers had produced broilers a mean of nearly 11 years; (3) one-half of the growers gave poultry as a major source of income; (4) almost all growers planned to continue at the same or increased size of operation; (5) most had one or more Extension con-tacts in 1981; (6) nearly all used conventional type of housing and most used a combination of ventilation types; and (7) most used shavings and/or sawdust for litter, and put used litter on land. Highly significant and significant relations included the following: 1. For mean house capacity: poultry as a major source of income; type of ventilation; use of fogger for cooling; type of feeder; water medicator; and three recommended management practices (i.e. check thermostat, add feed to trays, and use milk solution with viral vaccine). 2. For mean years having grown broilers: main source of income; total house capacity; type of feeders; type of waterers; type of litter; and four recommended management practices (i.e. clean waterers daily and between growouts, check house three times daily, mow grass around houses). 3. For main source of income: total house capacity; years grown broilers; total Extension contacts; used foggers for cooling; type of waterers and had water medicators; dead bird disposal; types of litter; use of litter; and use of six recommended management practices (i.e. clean waterers between growouts; check thermostat for accuracy; clean waterers daily; add feed to trays three times daily; check each house three times daily; and use milk solution with viral vaccine. 4. For future plans: type of housing; type of waterers; and keep mortality records. 5. For total Extension contacts: main income source; house capacity; type feeders; growouts on same litter; use of litter; and one recommended practice (i.e. check each house three times daily). 6. For mean percent of total practices used: total house capacity; type housing; use of foggers for cooling; and feeder type. Regarding broiler contracts, it was seen that contractors tended to make most decisions, giving growers improved economic security in return. The economic reward built into the broiler contracts and resulting constant supervision seemed to be the major factor influencing producers to use recommended practices, since growers\u27 payments were based on feed conversion adjusted for mortality and condemnation. Implications and recommendations also were included

Epidemiology of injuries in stand-up paddle boarding

Background: Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) is a recreational activity and sport that has grown exponentially, with participation increasing from 1.1 million in 2010 to 2.8 million in 2014 in the United States alone. Despite this growth in participation, SUP remains underresearched with regard to injury epidemiology. Purpose: To investigate injury epidemiology (severity, location, type, mechanism) in SUP. Study Design: Descriptive epidemiology study. Methods: An open-source online survey was administered to active SUP participants internationally. The survey captured information relevant to demographics, participation, and injury history over the past 12 months. Results: Of 240 participants included in the data analysis, 67.1% were males, and 54.6% were involved in competition. Participants spent a mean 192.6 ± 179.5 hours participating in SUP per year, most commonly for fun and fitness (43.3%) at the beach or bay (63.0%). A total of 95 participants had sustained at least 1 injury. A total of 161 injuries were recorded, resulting in an injury rate of 3.63 (95% CI, 3.04-4.16) per 1000 hours of SUP. The shoulder/upper arm was the most frequently injured body location, accounting for 32.9% of all injuries, followed by the lower back (14.3%) and the elbow/forearm (11.8%). The most common injury types were to muscle/tendon (50.4%), joint/ligament (22.6%), and skin (14.2%). Endurance paddling was the most frequently reported mechanism of injury (34.5%), followed by contact with a paddler’s own board (20.1%) and sprint paddling (9.3%). Key risk factors for sustaining an injury were age &gt;46 years, competitive status, and participating for &gt;4.8 hours/week, as well as using SUP for racing. Conclusion: This is the first study to report injury epidemiology for SUP. It is evident that both sexes participate in SUP for fun, fitness, and competition. With regard to injuries, the shoulder, lower back, and elbow are the most injury prone; older age, competitive status, and longer hours of participation all influenced the chance of injury. Findings from this study provide the foundation for injury prevention strategies. </jats:sec