bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Valoración de la respuesta glucémica en sujetos con IMC <25 y >25 Kg/m2 de una tortilla a base de maíz nixtamalizado adicionada con nopal, avena, linaza y espinaca
Authors: Amador Mendoza Adolfo , Mateos Ramos Teresa de Jesús , Bravo Delgado Humberto Rafael
Published: February 2025

Introducción: En la actualidad en México, hay interés por nuevos alimentos funcionales que mitiguen la obesidad y enfermedades como la diabetes y dislipidemias. Diversos estudios han demostrado que comer alimentos ricos en fibra pueden ayudar a controlar el peso corporal, aumentar la saciedad, disminuir los niveles de colesterol y lipoproteínas de baja densidad en sangre.
Objetivo: Evaluar la respuesta del índice glucémico en sujetos con índice masa corporal (IMC) <25 y >25 de una tortilla funcional a base de maíz nixtamalizado adicionada con nopal, avena, linaza y espinaca.
Materiales y métodos: La nixtamalización del maíz se realizó de manera tradicional con CaOH al 3.5% p/v. Se establecieron las mezclas de nopal, linaza, avena y espinaca mediante un diseño de experimentos factorial 2k manteniendo constante la temperatura de cocimiento. En los mejores tratamientos se evaluó su composición proximal, capacidad antioxidante, aceptabilidad sensorial, índice glucémico y respuesta glucémica relativa en sujetos con IMC<25 y >25 Kg/m2 durante 120 min cada 60 min.
Resultados y discusiones: Mediante el ANOVA p<0.05% se identificó que el mejor tratamiento con capacidad antioxidante 219.7 ± 10.8 µmol Trolox (ET)/g de la muestra, contenido de proteínas 7 ± 0.4 g/100 g, contenido en fibra dietética 10 ± 0.6 g/100 g y aceptabilidad de 7.8 ± 1.2 al tratamiento T2 (17% nopal, 3%, linaza, 3% avena y 3.5% espinaca). El índice glucémico en glucosa capilar en sujetos con IMC<25 e IMC>25 Kg/m2, fue mayor significativamente con la ingesta de tortilla tradicional en comparación con la ingesta de la tortilla funcional (TF) T2 (17% nopal, 3%, linaza, 3% avena y 3.5% espinaca).
Conclusión: Es recomendable usar la TF como alternativa para personas con problemas de hiperglicemias y dislipidemia, debido a que presenta un alto contenido en fibra dietética y bajo índice glucémico.
Terapia nutricional enteral asociado a la serie leucocitaria y mortalidad en pacientes de cuidados intensivos de un hospital del Altiplano Andino
Authors: Cadillo Nieves Jenny Rubi , PALOMINO QUISPE LUIS PAVEL , Huamán Gutiérrez Oscar Gustavo
Published: February 2025

Introducción: La terapia nutricional en el paciente crítico es muy importante por su impacto en la morbimortalidad, preservación de la masa tisular, disminución de la estancia hospitalaria, entre otros.
Objetivo: Evaluar la asociación entre terapia nutricional enteral con la serie leucocitaria y mortalidad en pacientes de la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos atendidos en un hospital del Altiplano Andino de Perú.
Materiales y métodos: Estudio de enfoque cuantitativo, analítico, observacional, retrospectivo de casos y controles; realizado en 98 pacientes de 18 a 60 años, atendidos durante el periodo enero del 2021 a julio del 2023 en la unidad de cuidados intensivos del Hospital San Martin de Porres-Macusani, ubicado en Puno-Perú. El muestreo fue censal, se excluyeron a gestantes; la información de la terapia nutricional enteral y la serie leucocitaria fue recopilada de historias clínicas. Para evaluar la asociación y el riesgo, se empleó la prueba de chi cuadrado y Odds ratio (OR).
Resultados: El 62,2% presentó estado nutricional normal; el 77,6% recibió nutrición enteral precoz; el 89,8% con fórmula polimérica y el 71,4% recibió un volumen promedio. Se encontraron alterados los leucocitos, neutrófilos y linfocitos; el 21,4% de los pacientes fallecieron. Al analizar la relación entre los indicadores de la terapia nutricional enteral y la serie leucocitaria, se observó asociación entre el tiempo de inicio con los neutrófilos abastonados y linfocitos (p<0,05); y el volumen promedio con los linfocitos (p<0,05). El indicador tiempo de inicio tardío, se asoció significativamente con una mayor probabilidad de mortalidad (OR=12,29, IC95%: 3,99-37,71, p<0,05) y una menor probabilidad al administrar fórmula Polimérica+Inmunoduladora (OR=0,76, IC95%: 0,67-0,86, p<0,025).
Conclusión: El tiempo de inicio y tipo de formula están asociados con la mortalidad. Asimismo, el recuento de neutrófilos abastonados y linfocitos tienen asociación con el tiempo de inicio y volumen inicial promedio de la terapia nutricional.
Factores sociodemográficos asociados al consumo de verduras, frutas y alimentos ultraprocesados en familias peruanas durante la época de pandemia por COVID-19
Authors: CAYO ALVAREZ Claudia Alexandra , VILCA SIERRA Vanessa Geraldine , Mamani-Urrutia Víctor , ESPINOZA-ROJAS Rubén , OLIVARES-ETCHEBASTER Marysol , TUME Fernando , BECERRA-CASTILLO Socrates Gustavo
Published: February 2025

Objetivo: Determinar los factores sociodemográficos asociados al consumo de verduras, frutas y alimentos ultraprocesados en familias peruanas durante la época de pandemia por COVID-19. Métodos: Estudio analítico de corte transversal basado en el análisis de datos secundarios. La muestra incluyó a 2141 participantes de las provincias de Lima, Arequipa y Sullana. Se analizó la asociación de 11 factores sociodemográficos de las familias peruanas con el consumo de tres grupos de alimentos: verduras, frutas y alimentos ultraprocesados (AUP). Para el análisis descriptivo se utilizaron la media y la desviación estándar y se empleó la prueba Chi-Cuadrado para evaluar las asociaciones entre las características sociodemográficas y el consumo de verduras, frutas y AUP. Resultados: El no consumo de verduras y frutas se relacionó con un bajo nivel educativo (41,2%; p<0,01), mientras que el mayor consumo de AUP se presentó en aquellos que tuvieron un nivel superior universitario (62,2%; p<0,05). Las personas con un ingreso mensual <S/930 presentaron un bajo consumo de verduras y frutas (13,3%; p<0,01); aquellos con un ingreso >S/11,160 tuvieron una alta ingesta de AUP en total (75%; p<0,01). Los residentes de Sullana presentaron el mayor porcentaje de no consumo de verduras y frutas (22,4%; p<0,01), y Lima registró el mayor consumo de AUP en total (68,3%; p<0,01). Además, las personas con exceso de peso tuvieron un alto consumo de AUP en total (65,6%; p<0,05). Conclusiones: El consumo de verduras, frutas y alimentos ultraprocesados se vio influenciado por factores sociodemográficos, especialmente el nivel educativo, el ingreso mensual, región geográfica y la presencia de comorbilidades.
Maternal diet during pregnancy: Implementation on the length and birth weight of the baby
Authors: HARTONO Rudy , AZIZAH NS Andi , TAMRIN Abdullah , FANNY Lydia , AMIR Aswita
Published: February 2025

Background: Diet is a description of the types and amounts of food consumed each day. The amount of food intake of the mother during pregnancy is one of the factors that can affect the weight and length of the baby's birth.
Methods: This study aims to determine the relationship between maternal diet during pregnancy and the length and birth weight of the baby. This research uses a Cross Sectional Study Retrospective design
Results: The results of the study showed that 62.2% of mothers' diets during pregnancy applied a good diet during pregnancy and 37.8% applied a poor diet. In terms of birth length, 85.6% of babies had normal birth length and 14.4% had short birth length. In terms of birth weight, 91.1% had normal birth weight and 8.9% had low birth weight. The mother's diet during pregnancy with the baby's birth length was marked with a p-value of 0.004 (p-value <0.05) which means there is a significant relationship between the mother's diet during pregnancy with the baby's birth length. The mother's diet during pregnancy with the baby's birth weight was marked with a p-value of 0.000 (p-value <0.05) which means there is a significant relationship between the mother's diet during pregnancy with the baby's birth weight.
Conclusion: to improve education and counseling on the importance of nutritional intake and diet for pregnant women, so that growth and development of the fetus and mother are better, and give birth to children with normal body length and birth weight.
Household food security and children’s food consumption diversity in the different agroecological regions in West Java, Indonesia.
Authors: Dewi Puspita , Khomsan Ali , Dwiriani Cesilia Meti , Sukandar Dadang
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Food security is essential for a country's development. This is emphasized in the SDG's goal of zero hunger. Food security means that a household can consistently access sufficient quantity and quality food. Geographical location influences access to food. This research aims to analyze food security and diversity in different agroecological regions (highlands and coastal) in West Java.
Methods: The design used in this research is a cross-sectional study. This research was conducted in Cianjur Regency (highlands) and Karawang Regency (coastal) West Java Province, Indonesia. The population in this study were households with children aged 12-24 months. The total number of households sampled in this study was 154. Data on children's food consumption was collected using the 1x24-hour food recall method, while other data was collected by interviews using questionnaires.
Results: As many as 63.6% of subjects in the highlands were aged 12-18 months and 49.4% in coastal area. Maternal education in the highlands was higher than in the coastal (p<0.05). Family members of ≤4 people were more common on the coastal (p<0.05). As many as 62.3% of households in the highlands and 81.8% in the coastal areas allocate food expenditure <60% of total spending. There is no difference in household food security in the highlands and the coastal (p>0.05), but the food consumption of toddlers in the highlands was more diverse than in the coastal area (p<0.05).
Conclusion: Mothers in the highlands generally have a higher level of education than mothers on the coastal and so was the household income. The number of households in the highlands with food secure was higher than in the coastal but it was not significantly different. And children's food consumption is more diverse in the highlands than in the coastal.
 
KEYWORDS: Coastal, Food Security, Highlands, Nutritional Status, Toddler.
Riesgo nutricional y estancia en pacientes de la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos de un hospital nacional, Lima - 2023
Authors: Lazo Camacho Stefany , Quispe Arbildo Diana , Huamán Gutiérrez Óscar Gustavo , Palomino Quispe Luis Pavel , Robledo de Ricalde Jovita Silva
Published: February 2025

Introducción: El paciente en estado crítico es aquel que se encuentra fisiológicamente inestable y en riesgo vital. Estudios realizados en nuestro país y a nivel de Latinoamérica evidencian un alto riesgo nutricional en los pacientes hospitalizados. Por otro lado, la estancia hospitalaria permite conocer la eficiencia hospitalaria, una estancia prolongada genera aumento en los costos, deficiente accesibilidad a los servicios de hospitalización, saturación de las urgencias y riesgos de eventos adversos.
Objetivo: Evaluar la relación entre el riesgo nutricional con la estancia en los pacientes adultos de la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos de un hospital Nacional de Lima, 2023.
Material y métodos: Estudio no experimental, transversal y correlacional-causal. La población fue constituida por pacientes del área crítica durante el periodo 2023, y que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión y exclusión. Se obtuvo una muestra de 100 historias clínicas. El riesgo nutricional se determinó mediante la herramienta NUTRIC score y a la suma del puntaje total obtenido, categorizado en riesgo bajo 0-5 puntos y riesgo alto 6 – 10 puntos. La estancia en UCI se calculó mediante el tiempo de permanencia en días, dentro del servicio y se clasificó con estancia hospitalaria corta menor a 10 días y prolongada mayor o igual a 10 días de permanencia. Los datos fueron analizados mediante el estadístico inferencial de Tau de Kendall.
Resultados: Se halló que el 61 % de la población estudiada tuvo un bajo riesgo nutricional y el 39 % presentó un alto riesgo. El 53 % de los pacientes presentó una estancia corta con una mediana de 12 días en UCI, asimismo se encontró una relación débil (Coef. 0.192), pero significativo entre las variables riesgo nutricional y estancia en UCI.
Conclusiones: En el presente estudio se encontró relación entre las variables riesgo nutricional y estancia hospitalaria en pacientes de UCI.
Women Dietary diversity Score and cardiometabolic risk factors of female health workers of reproductive age in Saltillo Coahuila.
Authors: NUPO SUNDAY SEDODO , MARTINEZ DE LA FUENTE VIRIDIANA , Ortiz-Cruz Gabriela , Cortés-Hernandéz Jose Lauro , Sandoval-Cortés Jose , Aguilar González Cristóbal Noé
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Women’s Dietary Diversity is a popular method for evaluating dietary diversity among women who are of reproductive age. It can also be helpful in identifying macronutrient deficiencies in women. Objectives: This study was designed to determine the women dietary diversity score and the cardiometabolic risk factors of women in health in Saltillo Coahuila Mexico Method: Across sectional study was carried out among one hundred and twenty-one randomly selected women working in the hospital. A prevalidated questionnaire was used to obtain information on socio demographic characteristics and lifestyle of the subjects. Food and Agriculture Organization pre validated structured questionnaire on women dietary diversity score (WDDS) was used. Anthropometric characteristics such as weight, height, waist circumference, waist to hip ratio and Mid upper Arm circumference (MUAC) were determined using World Health organization standard and used to classify obesity and cardiometabolic risk. Hypertension was determined using Sphygmomanometer. MDD-W was classified into two levels of consumption for women: low if MDD-W < 5 and high if MDD-W ≥ 5. The statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software ver.25 and results were reported in frequency distribution, mean ± standard deviation and pie chart. Pearson’s correlation test was done to determine the significance of Dietary diversity with anthropometric indices and cardio metabolic risks. Results: The majority (52%) of the subjects were single, forty-five (45%) percent smoke cigarettes while 83% consume alcohol. Seventeen percent had low MUAC, 51% had abdominal obesity and twenty nine percent had hypertension stage 11. Most (97%) had high WDDS. Identified cardiometabolic risk were smoking, abdominal obesity and obesity. Conclusion: The women dietary diversity score of the subjects were high. The identified cardiometabolic risk factors among the participants were high. There is a critical and urgent need for nutrition and health education for the workers.
Estilo de vida que promueven salud y factores personales asociados en pobladores de un distrito andino amazónico del Perú
Authors: Ortiz Romaní Katherine Jenny , Sangama-Rodriguez Citlalli Rashell , Ortiz Montalvo Yonathan Josué
Published: February 2025

Introducción: El estilo de vida que promueve la salud es un factor importante que influye en el estado de salud individual y puede evitar enfermedades cardiovasculares y muertes prematuras.
Objetivo: Evaluar el estilo de vida que promueven salud y los factores personales asociados en pobladores de un distrito andino amazónico del Perú.
Material y métodos: El estudio fue observacional, transversal y analítico. La muestra fue de 500 pobladores de un sector del distrito de Nueva Cajamarca. El estilo de vida estuvo medida por el Cuestionario de Perfil de Estilo de Vida (PEPS-I) y se clasifica en seis dimensiones (responsabilidad en salud, actividad física, nutrición, autorrealización, soporte interpersonal y manejo del estrés). Referente a los factores personales fueron clasificados según los determinantes del Modelo de Promoción de Salud de Nola Pender. Se empleó un análisis descriptivo, bivariado y multivariado con la prueba de regresión de Poisson y se evaluó la bondad de ajuste con la prueba de Hosmer-Lemeshow.
Resultados: El 61,80% de todos los participantes tiene un estilo de vida no saludable y el 70,80% tiene una actividad física no saludable. Además, los factores personales asociados a un mejor estilo de vida fueron: algunas veces consume alcohol (ORa: 3,87, p: 0,044), menos tiempo en el televisor (ORa: 0,87, p: 0,027), un mayor estrato socioeconómico (ORa: 3,31, p: <0,001) y contar con agua potable (ORa: 1,54, p: <0,001).
Conclusiones: La mayor parte de los pobladores tiene un estilo de vida no saludable. Por otro lado, los factores personales que se asociaron significativamente a un mejor estilo de vida son un menor consumo de alcohol, un menor tiempo en el televisor, un mayor estrato socioeconómico y contar con agua potable. Frente a estos hallazgos se recomienda crear y ejecutar intervenciones de mejora con evidencias científicas en pobladores con desigualdades en salud.
Relationship between nutritional status, physical activity, macronutrient intake and glycemic profile of prediabetic women in rural areas of Indonesia.
Authors: Putri Sefanadia , Marliyati Sri Anna , Setiawan Budi , Rimbawan Rimbawan
Published: February 2025

Prediabetes increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In rural areas, changes in lifestyle and diet influence the prevalence of prediabetes. This study evaluated the association of nutritional status, physical activity, and macronutrient intake with glycemic profile in prediabetic women in rural areas. The cross-sectional study included 26 women aged 40-64 years with prediabetes. Data were collected on demographics, food consumption, physical activity, and clinical parameters. Statistical analysis used Pearson and Spearman tests. Physical activity showed a positive significant correlation with BMI (r = 0.41, p = 0.037), and BMI was significantly associated with HOMA-IR (r = 0.465, p = 0.021) and QUICKI (r = -0.429, p = 0.036). However, energy, carbohydrate, protein, fat, and fiber intake were not significantly correlated with glycemic indicators or plasma insulin. Physical activity contributed to the increase in BMI and affected insulin resistance and sensitivity. Macronutrient intake was not significantly correlated with glycemic profile. Public health interventions need to focus on increasing physical activity to prevent T2DM.
CT-based migration analysis of a tibial component compared to radiostereometric analysis
Authors: Engseth Lars H. W. , Øhrn Frank-David , Schulz Anselm , Röhrl Stephan M.
Published: February 2025

Aims

Radiostereometric analysis (RSA) is considered the gold standard for in vivo migration analysis, but CT-based alternatives show comparable results in the shoulder and hip. We have previously validated a CT-based migration analysis method (CTMA) in a knee phantom compared to RSA. In this study, we validated the method in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Our primary outcome measure was the difference in maximum total point motion (MTPM) between the differing methods.

Methods

A total of 31 patients were prospectively studied having undergone an uncemented medial pivot knee TKA. Migrations were measured up to 12 months with marker-based and model-based RSA, and CT-RSA.

Results

Mean precision data for MTPM were 0.27 mm (SD 0.09) for marker-based RSA, 0.37 mm (SD 0.26) for model-based RSA, and 0.25 mm (SD 0.11) for CTMA. CTMA was as precise as both RSA methods (p = 0.845 and p = 0.156). At three months, MTPM showed a mean of 0.66 mm (95% CI 0.52 to 0.81) for marker-based RSA, 0.79 (95% CI 0.64 to 0.94) for model-based RSA, and 0.59 (95% CI 0.47 to 0.72) for CTMA. There was no difference between CTMA and marker-based RSA (p = 0.400), but CTMA showed lower migration than model-based RSA (p = 0.019). At 12 months, MTPM was 1.03 (95% CI 0.79 to 1.26) for marker-based RSA, 1.02 (95% CI 0.79 to 1.25) for model-based RSA, and 0.71 (95% CI 0.48 to 0.94) for CTMA. MTPM for CTMA was lower than both RSA methods (p < 0.001). Differences between migration increased between the methods from three to 12 months. Mean effective radiation doses per examination were 0.016 mSv (RSA) and 0.069 mSv (CT). Imaging time for performing RSA radiographs was 17 minutes 26 seconds (SD 7 mins 9 sec) and 4 minutes 24 seconds (SD 2 mins 3 sec) for CT.

Conclusion

No difference in precision was found between CTMA and marker- or model-based RSA, but CTMA shows lower migration values of the tibial component at 12 months. CTMA can be used with low effective radiation doses, and CT image acquisition is faster to perform than RSA methods and may be suitable for use in ordinary clinical settings.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2025;107-B(2):173–180.
Towards new modes of knowledge exchange for sustainability transformations: an exploration of multi-sited dialogue as conferencing practice
Authors: Harvey Blane , Huang Ying-Syuan (Elaine) , Goldstein Bruce , Graham Nick
Published: February 2025

Actors working on global climate and sustainability challenges are faced with two competing imperatives: first, there is an ever-expanding body of knowledge, networks and initiatives generating new insights that should be shared. Second, we see a growing recognition that fly-in, fly-out conferencing practices are an insufficient and unsustainable model for learning, boundary crossing and collaboration towards sustainability transformations. Against this backdrop, we argue that knowledge exchange for societal transformations needs to consider three interrelated dimensions: (1) equity and inclusion – access to and representation in both process and content for all, (2) low carbon – limits the ecological burden produced by the exchange, and (3) impact – outcomes at individual and collective levels that enhance our ability to act. How we navigate the tensions that may emerge from these dimensions is a matter of pressing importance. This research article examines the potential of multi-sited dialogues as an approach to co-producing transdisciplinary solutions by using the three dimensions as the analytical framework. We report on a series of dialogue-focused conference sessions convened at three international conferences in 2023. Our findings describe the contributions that the multi-sited dialogue process brought to knowledge co-production across space and time, and the contribution of facilitation practices to the outcomes of these dialogues. We also introduce and discuss the set of principles for transforming sustainable conferencing practices that were co-produced over the three dialogues.
Sustainability and the Circular Economy through the Eyes of Students: A Comparative Analysis among Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Slovenia and Croatia
Authors: Kostadinova Irina , Todorova Ana , Ruskova Svilena , Tomovska Misoska Ana , Letonja Marina , Tomljanović Marko
Published: February 2025

Higher education institutions are the catalyst for building tomorrow's leaders who will take responsibility for addressing environmental issues and shaping a more sustainable future. Along with learning the principles of the circular economy and sustainability, students build the skills and knowledge needed to take up leadership positions in a variety of fields, including business, politics and non-governmental organizations.
This article analyzes the understanding of issues of sustainability, circular and green economy through the eyes of business-oriented students from four European countries: Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Slovenia and Croatia. An international team of scientists researches the attitudes and expectations of students from different bachelor's and master's programs with the aim of both improving their knowledge, skills and competencies related to circular and green economy and sustainability, as well as upgrading and enriching educational programs and processes.
The research identified gaps in the educational process along with identified good practices implemented by specific partner organizations. Interrelationships were sought between the final results and the current geopolitical situation of the respective country in the context of its membership or not in the European Union. The study analyzed the content of various disciplines, focusing specifically on research areas such as the circular and green economy and sustainability. The findings aim to enhance curricula in fields like corporate social responsibility, economics, marketing, and related areas. 
Keywords: sustainability, circular economy, green economy, education
Sustainable Nature Therapy in Inclusive Educational Environments: Research Findings and Methodological Recommendations
Authors: Danylchuk Larysa , Raievska Yana , Yurkiv Yaroslava , Levitsky Vadim , Stynska Viktoriia , Krasnova Nataliia , Kravchyna Tetiana
Published: February 2025

The article presents an empirical study on the use of nature therapy in inclusive educational environments in Ukraine. It highlights the prevalent use of plant and color therapy, while zootherapy and sand therapy are less applied. The research underscores discrepancies between the theoretical endorsement and actual practice of nature therapy, with gender-specific tendencies and urban-rural differences. The study concludes that educators need updated scientific and methodological resources to effectively integrate nature therapy. Future research should focus on developing effective strategies for broader application in inclusive settings.
Keywords: Inclusive Educational Environment, Therapy, Children with Special Educational Needs.
Improving EU Fund Absorption in Romania: A Case Study on Beneficiary Insights
Authors: State Cristina , Wang Jianbo , Dinicu Andrei-Edward , Rizoiu Leonard-Alin
Published: February 2025

Funding has always been and will remain one of the essential challenges that any entrepreneur must overcome and find sustainable and efficient solutions for in the medium and long term. The same principle applies to the public sector, which needs investments for the production of goods, the provision of services, and infrastructure.
European non-reimbursable funds represent important sources through which both the public and private sectors can develop more quickly and efficiently. However, the absorption of funds is a slow process, with Romania not fully implementing the total amounts made available by the European Union.
Based on these ideas, we initiated our research, the aim of which is to identify methods to improve the absorption of European non-reimbursable funds. For this purpose, the research includes a questionnaire that was distributed via crowdsourcing and completed by 575 respondents. Subsequently, the recorded responses were processed econometrically using IBM SPSS20, and the analysis techniques used included quantitative data analysis, descriptive statistics methods, multiple response analysis, cross-data analysis, and the ?2 contingency coefficient.
Five research hypotheses were formulated, including three main and two secondary ones. Through these, we analyzed the perspective of potential beneficiaries regarding their relationship with the representatives of the relevant ministry, the absorption process, the difficulties encountered, and their perception of the way the Union distributes funds to member countries. In the end, all five research hypotheses were validated. 
Keywords: European Funds, Investments, Project Management, IBM SPSS20, Organizational Communication
Investor Behavior in Venture Capital Investment: An Analytical Study of Georgian and Central-Eastern European Startup Markets
Authors: Abuselidze George , Sarjveladze Beka
Published: February 2025

This research paper investigates venture capital investor behaviors within the startup ecosystems of Georgia and Central Europe, providing comparative analysis of these markets. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the study integrates qualitative and quantitative data derived from questionnaires distributed to VC investors in both regions. Detailed diagrams visualize critical trends and patterns, enhancing the understanding of investor behavior. The findings reveal distinct investment preferences, regulatory landscapes, and other details in each region. Georgian investors, often navigating an emerging market with limited infrastructure and networks, display cautious investment behavior, prioritizing stable returns and market potential. In contrast, Central-Eastern European investors benefit from more mature ecosystems, demonstrating higher risk tolerance and a greater focus on innovative ventures. Key factors driving investment choices include market potential, innovation levels, startup industry, and regulatory frameworks. The study highlights how these elements interact to influence investor confidence and preferences. For instance, while Central-Eastern European investors are motivated by Innovative Technologies and market size, Georgian investors are more influenced by government incentives and emerging market opportunities. By understanding these behaviors, this paper offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs, policymakers, and investors. It aims to enhance the startup ecosystem in both regions, providing a foundation for more informed and strategic investment decisions. This analysis contributes to the broader discourse on global VC trends, emphasizing the critical role of regional contexts in shaping investor behavior and their implications for emerging markets. 
Keywords: Venture Capital, Startups, Startup Ecosystem, Georgian Startup market, Investors
Impact of E-government on Institutional Performance: Fostering Sustainable Higher Educational Practices
Authors: Alshammari Wail Shafi , Kilase Ajoud Mohamed Eid , Hassan Ibrahim Ahmed Ibrahim , Al Shamlan Abdulrahman Eidhah , Alsalman Asmahan Ibrahim
Published: February 2025

This study explores the role of e-government services in enhancing institutional performance, with a specific focus on Northern Border University (NBU). E-government initiatives have transformed public sector operations globally by improving accessibility, transparency, and efficiency. This study employs the E-GOVQUAL model, a widely recognized framework for evaluating the quality of e-government services, and assesses key dimensions such as interactivity, information quality, ease of use, support quality, functionality, privacy, and aesthetics. Through a structured questionnaire targeting NBU employees and faculty members, the study examines how the quality of e-government services impacts institutional performance. Ten questions on institutional performance and 21 questions based on the E-GOVQUAL model are formulated. The data were organized and analyzed by using Smart PLS software. The findings reveal that all dimensions of e-government services have a statistically strong positive effect on institutional performance, with strongest factors being information quality, interactivity, and web functionality. The study underscores the importance of optimizing e-government services to improve institutional efficiency, reduce transaction times, and increase user satisfaction. By providing insights into the impact of e-government on institutional outcomes, stakeholders understand the ongoing efforts to enhance public sector performance through effective digital transformation.
 
Keywords: E-government, GOVQUAL, Northern Border University, public service, institutional performance
Transfering Sustainability Competences through Green Pedagogies and Service-Learning in Higher Education
Authors: Cantalejo María J. , Aldaya Maite M. , Navarlaz Isabel
Published: February 2025

Sustainability competences are reflected in the ability to look ahead to change and shape the future of the societies in which they live through active participation in the sense of sustainable development. Through service-learning, students take responsibility for their actions. The complex nature of sustainability issues makes it useful to explore problems and their solutions holistically.
In the framework of the NEMOS project (A New Educational Model for Acquiring Sustainability Competences through Service-Learning), a collaborative process was initiated to pool the knowledge and experience of five Higher Education Institutions working together to implement new educational models for effectively acquiring sustainability competences through service-learning in food-related degrees. This EU-funded project was launched and aimed to advance the transition to sustainability education through practical and innovative educational approaches and interventions. Green pedagogy can support transformative learning through the exploration and clarification of learners´own values.
In the case of the Public University of Navarre (UPNA), which leads the NEMOS project, practical sessions on service-learning and green pedagogies were held to train university lecturers who teach in different degrees to integrate sustainability in higher education, recognising the relevance of the connection with the environment and the active participation of educators in this process. 
Keywords: Experiential learning, know-how, sustainability education
Assessing the Impact of Open Banking Initiatives on E-Service Quality in Saudi Arabia: A Quantitative Study
Authors: Alsuhaimi Majed Salem
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the impact of open banking initiatives on e-service quality in Saudi Arabian banks. Using a quantitative approach, we surveyed 513 bank customers to assess changes in perceived e-service quality following the implementation of open banking. The study employs an extended E-S-QUAL model, incorporating dimensions specific to open banking. Results indicate that open banking initiatives significantly enhance e-service quality, particularly in the areas of efficiency, system availability, and innovation. However, challenges remain in privacy and security perceptions. This research contributes to the understanding of technology-driven banking innovations in emerging markets and provides practical implications for banks and regulators in Saudi Arabia and similar contexts.
 
Keywords: open banking, e-service quality, Saudi Arabia, financial technology, E-S-QUAL
Economic Awareness in Early Childhood Education: The Basis for Success
Authors: Katamadze Giorgi , Bolkvadze Maia , Tavdgiridze Lela
Published: February 2025

This paper studies the intersection of economics and early childhood education through institutional analysis, emphasizing the importance of fostering economic awareness among the children of preschool age. The research emphasizes the importance of early education in equipping children with fundamental economic concepts and decision-making skills, preparing them for independent engagement into society. Through interdisciplinary methodologies, the study synthesizes economic awareness, education, and early childhood development, provides a comparative analysis of Georgian and international practices. Outcomes highlight the lack of integrated economic education in preschool curricula in Georgia, despite its critical role in holistic development and future societal contribution. The paper offers recommendations on introducing age-appropriate economic education into preschool programs, using children’s literature as a resource, and developing methodological guidelines to improve early economic awareness. This study proposes for a systemic approach to early economic education that consistent with global best practices to foster future generations of economically literate citizens. 
Keywords: economic awareness, education, early childhood education, preschool children
The Impact of Sustainable Practices on Organizational Reputation: The Mediating Role of Social Responsibility in Saudi Organizations
Authors: Arous Jamel Ali , Alenzi Hamoud , ElRabbat Samar Ahmed , Hima Nadya Ali
Published: February 2025

This research paper deals with a study on the relationship between sustainable practices and organizational reputation through the mediating role of social responsibility in Saudi organizations. The main purpose of the research is to contribute to understanding how sustainable practices can enhance organizational reputation. The study uses a quantitative research design, and surveys data collected from a sample of 304 administrators working in a number of Saudi organizations. The organization of literature sources and problem-solving methods indicate that the importance of this scientific problem lies in the need for an empirical examination of how sustainable practices can improve organizational reputation through the mediating effect of social responsibility. The methodological tools of the research included the use of SPSS v.23 and AMOS v.23 to test the hypotheses. The results of the empirical analysis show that sustainable practices positively affect organizational reputation, and this relationship is mediated by social responsibility. The results of the study confirm that the application of sustainable practices can enhance the organization's reputation by enhancing its social responsibility. The results also confirm that there are no gender differences in the perception of the practices of the study variables. The results of this study can also be useful to policy makers and university administrators who seek to promote sustainable practices and enhance the organization's reputation through effective social responsibility initiatives. 
Keywords: corporate social responsibility; environmental sustainability; organizational image; reputational management; sustainable business practices.
Acmeology of Education as a Determinant of the Sustainable Development Concept: Faith vs Fear
Authors: Khrypko Svitlana , Binkivska Kristina , Klose Ronny , Martsinko Natalia , Кuznietsova Iryna , Myroniuk Lina , Patlaichuk Oksana
Published: February 2025

The article delves into the phenomenon of acme and the acmeology of education as a pivotal vector for actualizing the values and principles inherent in the concept of sustainable development. The text offers a nuanced exploration of the semantic interplay between faith and fear, viewing these emotions as dual forces that shape both individual paths toward achieving one's acme and collective concerns regarding the sustainability of future generations. Faith embodies a belief in progress and human potential, while fear reflects apprehensions about environmental degradation, societal instability, and the uncertainties of the future.
The study emphasizes that the acmeological dimensions of education represent not merely a framework for personal growth but also a transformative mechanism for fostering a sustainable mindset. Education, enriched with acmeological principles, becomes a semantic space where values, aspirations, and challenges converge, enabling learners to develop a balanced perspective on progress. This balance involves nurturing a hopeful vision for the future while critically addressing the ecological and societal dilemmas that pose risks to sustainable development. Through this lens, acmeology serves as a semantic bridge connecting personal development with global sustainability goals
Keywords: acme, acmeology of education, sustainable development, semantic, faith, fear, future
Connecting Sustainable Development and Corporate Sustainability through a 2030 Agenda Disclosure Index: Evidence from the Top-listed Iberian Companies
Authors: Suárez-Serrano Eugenia , González-Torre Pilar L. , Covián-Regales Enrique
Published: February 2025

To conciliate theories regarding the connection between corporate sustainability and sustainable development, this study presents a 2030 Agenda Disclosure Index compatible with different perspectives and standards, and which is tested in the contents of the sustainability reports of the top listed Iberian companies. Unlike studies that construct the SDG contribution variable as a dummy, reflecting only ‘whether” and not ‘how’, our framework introduces content elements under ‘top-down’ and ‘inside-out’ approaches, which emphasizes management, monitoring and ability to connect with stakeholders, and reflecting different levels of alignment, from symbolic to substantive. Despite the observed improvement of the index and sub-indices over time, the contribution to sustainable development by Iberian companies can be considered, on average, mediocre and with room for improvement, especially in stakeholder engagement and monitoring, and in Portugal. In addition to business characteristics (location, size and sector), aspects such as adherence to frameworks and standards (UNGC and GRI) and benchmarking (DJSI) have been shown to be linked to increased substantiveness of indices or sub-indices; but also, more internal aspects such as ethical codes, sustainability committees and board size are determining factors. Thus, beyond transparency and disclosure, the framework introduces content and contextual elements that may be of interest to academics, managers and regulators concerned about corporate rhetoric or greenwashing 
Keywords: corporate sustainability, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), 2030 Agenda, sustainability reporting, dissemination index, listed companies
Mapping the Digital Self: The Role of Self-Image Congruence and Brand Authenticity in Shaping Purchasing Behavior, with Insights into Sustainability in Online Commerce
Authors: AlQahtani Fahad Ali
Published: February 2025

This study explores the influence of self-image congruence and perceived brand authenticity on purchasing behavior in online commerce, with data collected from 302 Saudi customers. Analyzed deploying covariance-based structural equation modeling (CB-SEM), the results depict a significant relationship between brand authenticity and self-image congruence, both directly influencing purchasing behavior. Additionally, brand attachment mediates the influence of self-image congruence on purchasing behavior. Social influence is identified as a key moderator, strengthening the relationship between perceived brand authenticity and purchasing behavior. These findings contribute to understanding how self-concept and authenticity drive consumer decisions in digital environments, offering insights into brand strategy development for online commerce
 
Keywords: self-image congruence, brand attachment, social influence, purchasing behavior, e-commerce
Pancreatitis, Panniculitis, and Polyarthritis Syndrome as an Indication for Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography
Authors: Ajose Idowu , Mills Krystal , Hilscher Moira
Published: February 2025

Pancreatic diseases, including pancreatitis, may be associated with skin manifestations, and prompt recognition is crucial for diagnosis and prognosis. Pancreatic panniculitis is an uncommon dermatologic condition occurring in only 0.3%–3% of pancreatic diseases. Very rarely, the triad of pancreatitis, panniculitis, and polyarthritis syndrome can be observed. Of the scant cases in the literature, most patients received treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and/or steroids. To our knowledge, this is the first case to outline an endoscopic approach for pancreatitis, panniculitis, and polyarthritis syndrome in the setting of a pseudocyst.
Another Crohn's Disease Mimicker: A Case of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor-Induced Intestinal Angioedema
Authors: Adam Mohammad , Tselovalnikova Tatiana , Evans Aron
Published: February 2025

Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors are a common cause of drug-induced angioedema, which rarely affects the gut. We present a 32-year-old White woman with Crohn's disease on lisinopril experiencing 1 year of episodic abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, prompting multiple steroid tapers and a switch in biologic therapy. She was hospitalized and was profoundly hypotensive on arrival. Initial imaging showed marked small bowel wall thickening and free fluid in the abdomen. She had rapid symptomatic and radiographic improvement after only 24 hours and was diagnosed with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor-induced intestinal angioedema, an important Crohn's disease mimicker that may lead to unwanted management if unrecognized.
Stability and bifurcation analysis of a prey-predator model with Smith growth rate in presence of environmental toxins
Authors: Maiti Titli , Sarkar Avijit
Published: February 2025

The aim of the present article is to formulate a prey-predator model by assuming that the preys inhabit in contaminated environments and undergo Smith growth rate instead of logistic growth rate. Stability and bifurcation phenomenon of the model have been analyzed with utmost care.
Presenting a Smart Sukuk Model for Islamic Microfinance Institutions in Bangladesh: Towards Achieving SDGs
Authors: Muhammad Niaz Makhdum , Kassim Salina , Mahadi Nur Farhah Binti , Ali Engku Rabiah Adawiyah Engku
Published: February 2025

The Islamic bonds and debts, according to Islamic Shariah, are referred to as Sukuk, which provides cheaper and interest-free funding options for businesses and lower-risk bonds for individual investors. This study aims to present a novel fintech-based (Smart) SRI Sukuk model that can be useful for Islamic microfinance institutions (IMFIs) of Bangladesh in managing the source of funds. This study adopted a systematic literature review approach to assess the benefits of using Smart SRI Sukuk for IMFIs. In addition, 15 experts on Islamic finance were interviewed to determine the best possible ways to integrate technology into the SRI Sukuk model. The outcomes of this study have confirmed the effectiveness of using a blockchain and smart contract-based SRI Sukuk for managing the source funds of Islamic microfinance institutions in Bangladesh. The Smart SRI Sukuk can be immensely beneficial for IMFIs that always find it difficult to arrange the source funds and manage those in an efficient manner. This study also focuses on emancipating the poor from the vicious cycle of poverty through implementing Islamic microfinance system, and thus contributing to achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs). Future researchers and experts in Islamic finance will also find the ideas presented in this research helpful.
Menelisik Conscientiousness dan Toleransi Ambiguitas terhadap Kecenderungan Pengambilan Resiko pada Pelaku UMKM di Era New Normal
Authors: Mardhiyah Sayang Ajeng , Rezkyandar Muhammad
Published: February 2025

In challenging situations like the Covid-19 pandemic, MSME entrepreneurs are among the affected parties. However, the development and efforts to recover have become a primary demand for MSME entrepreneurs to survive in difficult circumstances. Coupled with changes in consumer habits and preferences, known as the "new normal," it has become a new era that forces MSME entrepreneurs to face a situation full of ambiguity. This study employs purposive sampling to select participants, specifically MSME actors in the city of Palembang who reside in the area, resulting in a total of 150 MSME participants with a variety of product types.  This research discusses how the risk-taking propensity of MSME entrepreneurs is influenced by their tolerance ambiguity and conscientiousness. The findings revealed a significant role of tolerance ambiguity in risk-taking propensity (p<0.01), but no significant role of conscientiousness in risk-taking propensity was found.
 
Pada situasi yang sulit seperti pandemi Covid-19, sektor UMKM merupakan salah satu pihak paling terdampak, sehingga perkembangan dan usaha untuk dapat kembali pulih menjadikan suatu tuntutan utama bagi pelaku UMKM untuk dapat bertahan di tengah situasi yang sulit. Ditambah dengan perubahan kebiasaan serta tuntutan dan juga selera dari para konsumen atau disebut sebagai new normal menjadi suatu era baru yang membuat para pelaku UMKM harus menghadapi situasi yang penuh dengan ambiguitas. Penelitian ini menggunakan teknik sampling purposive untuk memilih partisipan yaitu pelaku UMKM dengan kriteria berdomisili di Kota Palembang, sehingga didapatkan partisipan sejumlah 150 pelaku UMKM dengan jenis produk yang bervariasi. Pengambilan risiko pelaku UMKM dipengaruhi oleh toleransi ambiguitas dan juga conscientiousness dari pelaku UMKM sendiri. Hasil yang didapatkan adalah ditemukan secara signifikan peran toleransi ambiguitas terhadap kecenderungan pengambilan risiko (p<0.01) namun tidak ditemukan signifikansi peran dari conscientiousness terhadap kecenderungan pengambilan risiko.