bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single puncture combined lumbar erector spinae plane and quadratus lumborum block (SEQ block) in acetabular fracture surgeries: randomized clinical trial
Authors: Ahmed Aly Mahmoud Moustafa , Moustafa Moustafa Abdelaziz , Alabd Ahmad Samir
Published: August 2023

Background: Acetabular fracture surgery can cause severe postoperative pain. A combined lumbar erector spinae plane block (ESPB) and paraspinous sagittal shift (PSSS) quadratus lumborum (QL) block may augment intra and postoperative analgesia.Methods: Patients undergoing posterior column acetabular surgery were divided into: Group (Single puncture combined lumbar Erector spinae and Quadratus lumborum block) SEQ , patients who received an ultrasound guided SEQ block before induction of general anesthesia; and Group morphine (MOR), those who received GA and postoperative analgesia in the form of morphine.Results: Fifty-two patients were divided were equally into MOR and SEQ groups. Their demographic characteristics were comparable. The heart rate and mean arterial blood pressure were significantly lower in the SEQ group than in the MOR group between 60 and 180 min intraoperatively (P < 0.001). Postoperative resting and dynamic visual analogue scale (VAS) scores in the SEQ group were significantly lower than those in the MOR group at all studied periods (P = 0.022–0.001), except at 20 and 24 h postoperatively. Fentanyl was required in all MOR group patients at a mean dose of 110.0  28.42 g while 18 patients required fentanyl in SEQ group at a mean dose of 60.55  25.54 g. Postoperative morphine consumption was significantly less in SEQ group (6.33  2.37 mg) than MOR group (17.0  2.55 mg). Postoperative nausea and vomiting were recorded in eight and four patients in MOR and SEQ group, respectively. No complications associated with the block technique were observed. Conclusions: The SEQ block reduces the postoperative opioid consumption and provides stable intra and postoperative hemodynamics without observed complications in posterior column acetabular surgery.
An Africentric theory of human personhood
Authors: Nwoye A
Published: August 2023

The principal objective of this article is to work out an Africentric theory of human personhood. The aim is to attempt an African psychological rendering of that fundamental African assumption, made popular by the Nguni proverb, that "umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu" (often translated as "a person is a person through other persons"). To achieve this aim an African psychological theory of human personhood is offered to demonstrate that, in Africa as in other parts of the world, mature human beings are not born but made. In grounding the theory within an Africentric paradigm, the following themes that reflect an African origin of the theory are discussed: the basic postulates of an African worldview; an Africentric theory of human motivation; influential agents, moral visions, and social processes in the formation of an African personhood. The central goal of the discussion is to show how African personhood is socio-culturally derived and to point at the variety of enduring forces, both ancient and modern, determining its distinctive form.
Acumulación de biomasa y dinámica poblacional de un bosque inundable en el Magdalena medio (Colombia)
Authors: Stevenson Díaz Pablo Roberto , Cárdenas Sasha , Restrepo Isabel C. , Aldana Ana María
Published: August 2023

Pocos estudios en Colombia han cuantificado dinámicas poblacionales de bosques en iniciativas privadas de conservación y no se sabe si la restauración pasiva (o sucesión secundaria) es efectiva para generar acumulación de biomasa. En este trabajo se analizaron tres parcelas permanentes de vegetación de 0,1 ha en la Reserva El Paujil (Serranía de Las Quinchas, Colombia) luego de un período de sucesión secundaria por 8-9 años, para determinar si los cambios poblacionales y la acumulación de biomasa sobre el suelo eran mayores en los bosques secundarios inundados que en los bosques de tierra firme. Como resultado principal, se encontraron altas tasas anuales de mortalidad (7,98 ± 4,50 DE), que fueron mayores que las tasas de reclutamiento (5,89 ± 5,29 DE), lo que generó un cambio negativo promedio (-2,09 ± 4,36 DE). Sin embargo, el crecimiento de los sobrevivientes fue alto (0,028 ± 0,019 DE), que se vio reflejado en una tasa positiva de acumulación de biomasa (3,33 ton/año/ha ± 5,15 DE), mayor que la reportada en bosques de tierra firme de la zona (0,10 ton/año/ha ± 1,90 DE) y que estuvo relacionada con la fertilidad del suelo. La especie de mayor dominancia y aporte en biomasa fue Anacardium excelsum, las de mayor pérdida fueron especies pioneras (por ejemplo, Cecropia membranacea y C. peltata), Bauhinia picta y Guadua angustifolia, esta última con el valor más alto de reclutamiento. Se concluye que el establecimiento de estas áreas protegidas permite la acumulación de carbono, de manera equivalente a lo que ocurre en procesos de restauración activa.
Características de microorganismos utilizados como probióticos tradicionales y nuevos probióticos
Authors: Pacheco-Martínez Claudia Karina , Saucedo-Castañeda Gerardo , Rodríguez-Durán Luis Víctor , Pérez-Chabela Lourdes
Published: August 2023

Los probióticos son microorganismos vivos que al administrarse de forma adecuada confieren un beneficio a la salud del hospedero. Entre los principales microorganismos reconocidos como probióticos se encuentran las bacterias lácticas. No todas las bacterias lácticas son consideradas probióticas, estas deben reunir ciertas características como crecer a un pH menor a 4,0, ejercer control sobre bacterias patógenas, sobrevivir en el tracto gastrointestinal, tener tolerancia a sales biliares, presentar capacidad de adhesión al mucus intestinal y a células epiteliales, tener capacidad de co-agregarse y auto-agregarse, principalmente. Las bacterias que poseen estas características se les denomina probióticos tradicionales. Sin embargo, desde hace algunos años se han estudiado otros microorganismos con potencial probiótico. Entre las diferencias de los probióticos tradicionales y los nuevos probióticos se encuentra el origen de los mismos. Los nuevos probióticos tienen siempre que ser aislados del tracto gastrointestinal de seres humanos, lo que dificulta su cultivo pues son sensibles al oxígeno. En contraste, los probióticos tradicionales pueden ser aislados del tracto gastrointestinal, pero las fuentes principales son los alimentos, fermentados o no. Una característica importante de los nuevos probióticos es que se les atribuyen beneficios en el tratamiento de enfermedades específicas. En esta revisión se muestran las principales características de los probióticos tradicionales y los nuevos probióticos.
THE IMPACT OF MONETARY SHOCKS ON INFLATION IN SELECTED WEST ASIAN COUNTRIES
Authors: SAADATMEHR Masoud
Published: August 2023

The impact of monetary policies on inflation has always been one of the goals of monetary policymakers. To what extent a monetary shock can be effective on inflation, or that both positive and negative monetary shocks can be effective in aggravating or controlling inflation are among the important issues in monetary economics, which scientific research is aimed at It is very necessary to answer them. Therefore, in this research, the impact of positive and negative shocks on the inflation rate in selected West Asian countries has been investigated. In this research, panel data has been used in the period of 2000-2020 for the countries of the West Asian region, including Iran, Armenia, Jordan, Azerbaijan, Pakistan, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Qatar, Kuwait and Georgia. GLS method is used to estimate the model. The results showed that the impact of monetary shocks on the general level of prices are different from each other in the countries of the West Asian region, both in terms of the level of significance and in terms of the level of influence. In the countries of Iran, Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kuwait and Georgia, monetary shocks had a symmetrical effect on the general level of prices, and in the countries of Jordan, Azerbaijan and Qatar, the effect of monetary shocks was asymmetric. Of course, in the countries of Saudi Arabia, Oman and Kazakhstan, only negative shocks have an effect on the general level of prices, as a result, the impact of monetary shocks on the general level of prices is asymmetric in these countries as well. Also, the results showed that in all the studied countries, the impact of negative shocks on prices is greater than positive shocks.
Quantifying Risk to Flight Attendants from Secondhand Smoke Exposure in Airline Cabins Using Pharmacokinetic Modeling: A Case Report
Authors: Repace James
Published: August 2023

Background: Several studies of the health problems incurred by flight attendants flying during the smoking years concluded that they suffered elevated rates of chronic bronchitis, heart disease, skin cancer, breast cancer, melanoma, reproductive cancers, middle ear infections, hearing loss, asthma, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, various pulmonary function abnormalities, plus depression and anxiety. Aims: Systematic review of secondhand smoke risks to flight attendants, exemplified using a specific case involving a deceased flight attendant who suffered from a multiplicity of tobacco-smoke-related diseases, including asthma, breast cancer, carotid artery stenosis, cataracts, cervical cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, coronary artery disease, laryngeal cancer, pneumonia and chronic myeloid leukemia. The decedent died in 2014 at age 68, losing an estimated 18.5 years of life expectancy. Methods: Pharmacokinetic modeling was used for the first time to estimate the risk from secondhand smoke for flight attendants on typical passenger aircraft flown by the decedent during an 18 year period ending in 1988. Results: Based on in-flight cotinine dosimetry measured in an Air Canada study, typical flight attendants would have inhaled a dose-equivalent of fine particle air pollution exceeding the “Air Pollution Emergency” levels of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Air Quality Index. The secondhand smoke cotinine dose for typical flight attendants in aircraft cabins is estimated to have been 6-fold that of the average US worker and 14-fold that of the average person. Thus, ventilation systems massively failed to control secondhand smoke air pollution in aircraft cabins, and led to extreme exposures. The decedent’s estimated lifetime cancer risk from secondhand smoke was 18 times U.S. OSHA’s Significant Risk of Material Impairment of Health level of 1 per 1000 per working lifetime. Conclusions: In-flight exposure to toxic and carcinogenic tobacco smoke in smoky passenger cabins was the major risk factor leading to the decedent’s multiple smoking-related diseases, and her premature death. This has implications for the extant and future health of the cohort of surviving flight attendants exposed to secondhand smoke on aircraft during the 20th Century Era.
The Presence and Impact of Bacteria and Biofilms in Chronic Skin and Systemic Diseases
Authors: Allen Herbert , Allen Rachel , Kannan Kiertana , Fransko Lucy
Published: August 2023

This will be an overview of our studies on biofilms and the diseases with which they are associated. Where possible, it will include the microbes that create these biofilms, their locations in the body, and their impact on the innate and adaptive immune systems. It will include all the diseases which we have recently classified as eczema in addition to those previously considered as such. It will also include psoriasis, tinea versicolor, leprosy, tertiary Lyme disease and Alzheimer’s disease, the deposition diseases (arteriosclerosis, gout pretibial myxedema), the necrobiotic granulomas (granuloma annulare, rheumatoid nodules, and necrobiosis lipoidica), molluscum contagiosum and squamous cell carcinoma in situ in pigmented transplant patients. Consequently, many chronic skin and systemic diseases have been shown to be biofilm diseases. This implies that these disorders have a large, often determinative microbiological component. Where known, the mechanism whereby these biofilms interact with the immune system will be discussed
Avcs-Sonr Pilot Study: N-Terminal Pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide Inversely Correlates with Sonr Signal in Patients with Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Reduced Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction
Authors: Guerrero Juan , Castañeda Joaquín , Piñero Antonio , Fernández F. Javier , Castellano Nicasio , Ferrer Juan , Lozano Ignacio , Moreno Javier , Madrid Antonio
Published: August 2023

Background. Chronic heart failure is a very important public health problem, and brain natriuretic peptide monitoring may help in its management but faces important logistical problems. A readily available surrogate of brain natriuretic peptide would be of value in this field. We hypothesized that SonR measurements might be this brain natriuretic peptide surrogate. Methods. Patients with chronic heart failure, left ventricular ejection fraction ≤ 30% and implanted with a cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator able to provide SonR values underwent monthly assessment of brain natriuretic peptide levels for 1 year. The relationship between brain natriuretic peptide levels and paired SonR values was evaluated. Results. An inverse and highly significant relationship between brain natriuretic peptide levels and paired SonR values was obtained. Conclusions. We found an inverse and significant relationship between SonR values and brain natriuretic peptide levels. This finding might lead to the use of SonR values to monitor treatment and preclude hospital admissions in patients with chronic heart failure.
The 'Orange Card' Initiative: The Search for ‘Tertiary Effects’ of Drugs
Authors: Borges Ricardo
Published: August 2023

Marketed drugs are known to possess both therapeutic (primary) effects and side (secondary) effects. Occasionally, during the course of treating a specific disease, unexpected beneficial outcomes, referred to as "tertiary effects," may emerge. These tertiary effects have shown great potential for drug repurposing, particularly in the context of rare diseases. Unfortunately, the observation of such effects often falls to physicians, nurses, and pharmacists who lack a proper system for effectively communicating these findings to the healthcare community. In this proposal, I suggest the development of an innovative solution called the "Orange Card," which aims to facilitate the reporting of suspected unexpected beneficial effects associated with a particular treatment. This system would leverage the existing well-established framework employed by most countries for reporting side effects, enabling seamless integration and enhancing communication within the healthcare system.
Education in Anesthesiology: Crisis, Values and Perspectives
Authors: Guevara-López Uría , Luna Manuel , Ramirez Eduardo
Published: August 2023

Background: The teaching-learning process is a fundamental competence in high-risk environments such as the operating room. Although conventional approaches are based on learning from negative performance, it is convenient to visualize the virtuous behavior of actors in specialties where security events are latent. Objective: to explore through a survey the perception of crisis in the teaching of anesthesia in Mexico, and to identify the possible causes and precipitating factors. Methods: A prospective observational design was used, prior approval from the research ethics committee. It was studied by means of a survey with 40 items to people who carry out their professional practice in the Mexican Republic. The positive and/or negative characteristics of specialists, student teachers, the educational program and work environment were explored. Results: 1,125 participants responded. The highest percentage believed that there is a severe deficit in the teaching of the specialty, indicating in descending order the students, the work environment, and in similar proportions, the structure of the program and the characteristics of the teachers as the causes. Significant statistical differences were found in the attitude and values of the residents, in lack of adherence to educational programs, in the lack of stimuli, motivation and lack of recognition and encouragement to teachers, p < 0.000. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that anesthesiologists are doing many things "right", but the existing educational deficit can be corrected to avoid an eventual crisis, suggesting a clinical practice based on evidence and values in a better environment.
Decompressive Craniectomy for Intracerebral Hemorrhage Complicating Herpetic Meningoencephalitis: A Case Report
Authors: Rafya Meryem , Bou-ouhrich Yassine , Ezahiri Mustapha , Echchafi Rim , Ouamer Fatima , Charra Boubaker
Published: August 2023

Herpetic encephalitis is the most common viral encephalitis in adults and is the most severe form of herpes simplex virus infection. The diagnosis is based on polymerase chain reaction in cerebrospinal fluid, as well as brain magnetic resonance imaging. Although intra cerebral petechial hemorrhage has been described during herpetic encephalitis, intraparenchymal cerebral hematoma is an extremely rare form. The absence of response to treatment or the worsening of clinical symptoms should suspect the diagnosis. The medical treatment is based on acyclovir which should be initiated as soon as the diagnosis is suspected. Surgical treatment is based on decompressive craniotomy. Herein, we report the case of a 62-year-old man in whom the diagnosis of herpetic encephalitis was confirmed, and the patient was put on acyclovir-based medical treatment. The follow-up was marked by the appearance of an intra-parenchymal hematoma for which the patient had a decompressive craniotomy. The evolution was marked by neurological worsening leading to the death of the patient.
Exploring the Behavioral Intention of Vaccination against COVID-19 Using the Theory of Planned Behavior
Authors: Huang Fen-Fen , Lai Yi-Horng
Published: August 2023

People’s attitudes towards vaccines and beliefs about infectious disease prevention are closely related to the design and effectiveness of prevention strategies. This study explores Taiwanese people’s views on COVID-19 vaccines, beliefs about infectious disease prevention, and people's acceptance of vaccinations extent and influencing factors. This study is mainly aimed at the people in the Greater Taipei area as the research subject. The convenience sampling method is used to investigate the willingness of the people to receive the new coronary pneumonia vaccine. The relevant data is collected through the google online questionnaire. The study found that people’s attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control and behavioral intentions, social trust, health awareness, and expected emotions towards vaccination against COVID-19 were partially significant due to demographic variables. People’s attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control have positive effects on behavioral intentions.
The Research on the Application of Positive Psychology in Second Language Acquisition
Authors: Tang Minmin
Published: August 2023

Positive psychology is a theory regarding how people thrive and live better. Some contents of English subject have a certain influence on second language acquisition. This article is conducted to investigate positive psychology in the context of second and foreign language acquisition. This theory places particular emphasis on the positive emotions, positive personality qualities, as well as settings that allow people to thrive, which are significant issues in second language learning and teaching. This study aims to review the meaning and application of positive psychology in second language acquisition, mainly focusing on two categories of theory: the PERMA model and the EMPATHICS model; and finds that positive and negative emotion theories bring some enlightenment to second language teaching. For one thing, teachers’ positive personality qualities are being developed in order to boost students’ communicative drive. For the other thing, teachers had better foster a supportive environment in the classroom that will help the learners to learn languages in a positive environment. Moreover, this study also dialectically treats the theory of positive psychology.
Remaking the Contemporary Value of Arts and Crafts—Taking Pang Xunqin as an Example
Authors: Liyun Liu
Published: August 2023

Chinese traditional art is an important source of contemporary arts and crafts practice, for the study of excellent traditional visual art can promote the creative transformation of contemporary arts and crafts and innovative invention, enhance cultural confidence. Pang XunQIN OPENED UP THE MODERN PAINTING WITH national characteristics and extended the decorative painting to the decorative art of arts and crafts, which complied with the needs of The Times and society. To be able to follow the path he explored would go a long way toward reshaping the contemporary values of arts and crafts. This paper tries to sum up three transformation roads of arts and crafts that adapt to the contemporary social life by appreciation and analysis of Mr. Pang Xunqin's creation thought sources and works, so that the technology and art show a new look that conforms to its native environment and development process under the "modern" life background, so that the Chinese excellent traditional culture can glow with vitality.
Live-Streamer as Digital Labor: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tang Jiaru
Published: August 2023

To grasp an overview of recent study on live streamer and to provide a reference for future direction, this study summarized the relevant literature on live streamer in past five years. This study comprehensively searched literature in major databases and obtained 35 papers that meet the inclusion criteria. Major findings include that there is a lack of global diversity in current research, thus further research need to expand the platform and geographical focus. The ambivalent and nascent nature of live streaming call for a subjective and dialectical perspective to explore the power dynamic between the stakeholders in platform economy. There is a need for more longitudinal studies to have a better understanding of the phenomenon as it evolves over time and vary from sociocultural and socioeconomic environment.
Variabilidad climática y seguros paramétricos en la agricultura del Cono Sur
Authors: Lema Daniel , Gallacher Marcos , Galetto Alejandro , Gastaldi Laura , Gatti Nicolás
Published: August 2023

Este trabajo analiza las posibilidades y limitaciones que tendrían los seguros paramétricos como herramienta para contribuir a la adaptación al riesgo climático en la producción agropecuaria en los países del Cono Sur de América Latina. Se describen los principales eventos climáticos extremos y su impacto agregado en los países de la región y se presenta una revisión del estado de desarrollo de los seguros climáticos paramétricos en el mundo y en la región, así como las limitaciones para su adopción. La revisión de las experiencias sobre seguros índices como mecanismo de manejo de riesgos sugiere algunas razones para explicar el escaso desarrollo hasta el presente. Las principales razones identificadas son el riesgo base, las coberturas incompletas, los costos de diseño, las restricciones de liquidez por parte de los productores, la falta de comprensión del mecanismo y la falta de confianza en los proveedores de coberturas. Para fomentar la adopción de coberturas paramétricas se sugiere una estrategia que combine la investigación, la comunicación y las pruebas piloto, atento al potencial que tienen estas coberturas y la creciente demanda de mecanismos efectivos de adaptación a la variabilidad climática que afecta a la producción agropecuaria.
Which One Predicts Better?: Comparing Different GDP Nowcasting Methods Using Brazilian Data
Authors: Oliveira Lucas Gabriel Martins de
Published: August 2023

The objective of this paper is to develop a basic framework for the implementation of a GDP nowcasting strategy using Brazilian data. Our goal is to identify a scalable strategy that allows us to project the Brazilian GDP in real time at any point during the current quarter. In the paper we detail the survey of classical techniques and also of techniques usually known by market practitioners as "machine learning methods". We survey the literature since the first work on estimating business cycles and document the evolution of this literature until the insertion of machine learning methods. Additionally, we perform backtesting exercises, estimate several candidate models for GDP nowcasting. Finally, we evaluate the forecasting power of all models against a naive model and a market expectations model. We demonstrate that a combination of machine learning models based on the distance of forecasts to the average market expectations defeats the fully informed market expectations, while the same is not possible for selected classical nowcasting models.
Policiamiento en puntos calientes en cuatro ciudades de Argentina: evaluación de impacto y proceso
Authors: Chainey Spencer , Estévez-Soto Patricio , Pezzuchi Gastón , Serrano Rodrigo
Published: August 2023

En 2017, un programa de PPC fue implementado en cuatro ciudades de la República Argentina: La Plata, Morón, Santa Fe y Tres de Febrero. Cada intervención fue diseñada siguiendo la misma metodología e implementada en forma simultánea de manera de poder comparar los resultados entre las ciudades. En términos generales, el programa generó una disminución significativa del 14% en los robos y hurtos. Los resultados difieren entre las ciudades, siendo La Plata la que experimentó las mayores disminuciones, incluyendo una reducción significativa del 31% en los robos. No se observó desplazamiento a delitos de asalto o sustracción de automotores. Las diferencias de impacto entre ciudades muy probablemente se asocian con diferencias en la implementación de cada intervención.
Residential Electricity Consumption and Adaptation to Climate Change by Colombian Households
Authors: McRae Shaun D.
Published: August 2023

This paper provides the first empirical estimates of the relationship between temperatures and household electricity consumption in Colombia, using electricity billing and weather data from 2010 to 2019. I find that higher temperatures (or higher values of the heat index) increase electricity consumption, with the largest effects observed for high-income households in regions with hot climates. However, I show that there has been partial convergence between low- and high-income households, with the effect of temperature on electricity consumption in lower-income neighborhoods more than doubling between 2011 and 2019. These results align with survey evidence of increased air conditioning adoption. Nevertheless, further growth in air conditioning adoption and use is required to alleviate the health effects of more frequent and severe heatwaves due to climate change.
Bases para impulsar una minería sostenible y responsable: una ventana para dar un salto de prosperidad en el s. XXI: el caso de Ecuador
Authors: Dufey Annie , Jara José Joaquín , Sanhueza Christián , Trincado Bárbara , Urzúa Osvaldo , Zamorano Pinhas
Published: August 2023

El avance hacia la descarbonización de la mano de nuevas tecnologías ha llevado a las principales economías mundiales a demandar un suministro confiable de minerales críticos como cobre, litio, níquel, cobalto, tierras raras, entre otros. Esto representa una oportunidad única para los países de América Latina y el Caribe (ALC) de sacar ventaja de su rica dotación de recursos minerales. Pero capturar las oportunidades implica no sólo asegurar el abastecimiento de los minerales, sino también de hacerlo de forma responsable y sostenible. El estudio “Bases para impulsar una minería sostenible y responsable: Una ventana para dar un salto de prosperidad en el siglo XXI” del BID buscó generar una primera aproximación hacia una minería sostenible y responsable, especialmente para el caso del cobre. Esta se define como aquella que es capaz de generar valor a través de dinámicas de acción colectiva que minimizan los daños ambientales y fortalecen las distintas formas de capital necesarias para crear valor económico, social y ambiental sostenible para las generaciones actuales y futuras. Para ello, se generó un marco conceptual para evaluar el estado de madurez del sector, identificar brechas y transitar hacia una minería sostenible y responsable, identificando cinco pilares estratégicos y catorce líneas de acción para lograrlo. Este documento sintetiza la aplicación de dicho marco para el caso de Ecuador.
Origins of Latin American Inequality
Authors: Eslava Francisco , Valencia Caicedo Felipe
Published: August 2023

How deep are the roots of Latin America's economic inequalities? In this chapter we survey both the history and the literature about the region's extreme economic disparities, focusing on the most recent academic contributions. We begin by documenting the broad patterns of national and sub-national differences in income and inequality, building on the seminal contributions of Engerman and Sokoloff (2000; 2002, 2005) and aiming to capture different dimensions of inequality. We then proceed thematically, providing empirical evidence and summarizing the key recent studies on colonial institutions, slavery, land reform, education and the role of elites. Finally, we conduct a “replication” exercise with some seminal papers in the literature, extending their economic results to include different measures of inequality as outcomes.
Effect of FinTech on cash holding: Quarterly evidence from Nigeria
Authors: Samuel Udo Emmanuel , Prince Abner Ishaku , Ndubuaku Victor , Udoh Ben Etim , Okoh Johnson I
Published: August 2023

The operational activities of FinTech (Financial technology) have restyled the operational functionalities of the classical financial system in terms of cash holding. The purpose of this study is to scrutinize FinTech’s effect on cash holdings in Nigeria. Using quarterly data collated from the Central Bank of Nigeria from 2009 Q1-2020 Q4. The cointegrating nexus was estimated using the autoregressive distributed lag/bounds test model (ARDL) and the error correction model (ECM) approach. The Phillips-Perron unit root test was adopted to determine the stationarity properties of the series and their order of integration. Empirical results show the existence of a positive long run nexus between FinTech indicators of mobile banking (MOB), point of sales (POSs), Internet banking (INB), automated teller machine (ATM), and cash holding within the quarterly period under consideration. The ECM results of the short-run divergent factors of economic and financial vagueness, poverty, and literacy, among others, structural and institutional factors influencing the dogged cash transactions in Nigeria, converge back to equilibrium at 90% for ATM, 58% for POS, MOB at 67%, and WEB at 64%, respectively. This study expands its frontiers to accommodate exchange and interest rates as vital determinants of cash holding. The ARDL result offers a varied empirical perspective in contrast to the predominantly employed classical linear regression. Given the statistical limitations associated with findings derived from a singular model, it is imperative for regulators to possess a comprehensive comprehension of the operational mechanisms of Financial Technology (FinTech). This understanding would enable them to formulate appropriate policies that foster the adoption and utilization of FinTech platforms.
The impact of information technology on accounting systems towards SME performance in Malaysia
Authors: Abdullah Shamsul Nahar , Aziz Azbariyah Abdul , Saifulazri Batrisyia Qysara
Published: August 2023

This study seeks to investigate the impact of accounting information systems on the performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Malaysia. SMEs were the focus of this study due to their importance to the economy. The features of an accounting system, namely accuracy, efficiency, reliability, data quality, and ease of use, were tested against the performance of a sample of SMEs that implemented an Accounting Information System (AIS) in their companies. A closed-ended questionnaire consisting of a five-point Likert scale was used to gather the data. Convenience sampling was utilized to collect data from a sample size of 112 respondents using questionnaires distributed via online platforms, including social media, messaging applications, and email. The findings revealed that only three features of an accounting information system were positively related to the performance of SMEs in Malaysia, namely accuracy, reliability, and ease of use. Therefore, an accounting system must generate accurate, reliable, and easy-to-use data to assist management in making informed decisions. Companies need to provide internal and external training for accountants and decision-makers and give organizational culture the attention it deserves as it impacts accounting data quality. This training should aim to promote a strong work ethic and a culture of excellence.
Applying e-commerce by Vietnamese SMEs: A critical analysis
Authors: Binh Dang Thai , Hoa Ho Thi , Hieu Pham Van , Can Bui Van , Hung Do Hai , Dai Nguyen Huu Phuoc
Published: August 2023

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a crucial role in many countries’ economic growth and development, particularly in Vietnam. Vietnamese SMEs have been instrumental in creating job opportunities, especially for low-skilled laborers, and are increasingly contributing to the stability and progress of the national economy. However, the rise of globalization and the integration of economies at the international and regional levels have exposed SMEs to severe local and global competition. To sustain and develop their essential role in the face of rising competition, SMEs must innovate and adopt new technologies, with e-commerce being one of the essential solutions. The integration of e-commerce within Vietnamese Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) has posed a significant challenge, making it crucial to identify the key factors that impact its implementation. A quantitative method was used to determine the four factors (Technology, Organizational, Environmental, and Management) influencing the adoption of e-commerce by Vietnamese SMEs. The study found that technology has the most significant impact on the adoption of e-commerce by Vietnamese SMEs, followed by organizational, management, and environmental factors. Technology is considered the most critical factor because e-commerce is primarily a technological solution, and SMEs need to invest in advanced technologies to keep up with their competitors.
A Methodical Evaluation of Teachers’ Knowledge and Practices of Differentiation in Basic Schools in the Effutu Municipality of Ghana
Authors: Agamboka Anthony Atandigre
Published: August 2023

Teachers’ knowledge of differentiation and how they practice differentiation was evaluated in fifteen (15) Basic Schools of the Effutu Municipality. The study was guided by two (2) research questions and two (2) hypotheses. The study adopted the Vygotsky (1978) socio-cultural learning theory as the theoretical framework. A qualitative research method was employed as the approach and a case study as the design for the study. Relying on a primary data, a multi-stage sampling method which involved purposive sampling and simple random sampling was used to select the samples. The analyses revealed that the teachers have very high knowledge with respect to strategies of differentiation. Also, the frequency of implementation of differentiation in the subject areas was very good as only 3.3% of the selected teachers do not implement it in any of the subject areas they teach. It was found the proportion of teachers who implemented differentiation in core subjects like Mathematics, English Language and Natural Science were not significantly different from those who do not. Though, the result was generally reassuring, the study made recommended that enhanced supervision, and continuous professional development training therein for improving the situation.
Pesquisa-ação relacionada ao ensino de números inteiros com jogos didáticos
Authors: Gomes Maria Clara Montel , Siqueira Mayanne Brenda de Souza , Evangelista Dilson Henrique Ramos , Evangelista Cristiane Johann
Published: August 2023

As dificuldades dos alunos em relação ao ensino de números inteiros desencadeiam a preocupação com a ação pedagógica docente e a busca por uma forma de intervenção inovadora. Neste contexto, a pesquisa tem como objetivo investigar as potencialidades de atividades lúdicas no aprendizado de números inteiros em uma turma de 7º ano do ensino fundamental, em Santana do Araguaia- PA. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, do tipo Pesquisa-ação, que analisou a intervenção realizada na Escola Municipal de Ensino Fundamental Irmão Pio Barroso, com foco no ensino de matemática por meio do lúdico. Os instrumentos de pesquisa foram a observação participante, as anotações das atividades pelos estudantes e pela pesquisadora, e as respostas de um questionário. Foram escolhidos, confeccionados e desenvolvidos dois jogos: Matiz e Sobe e Desce que exploraram conceitos de adição e subtração de números inteiros. Os jogos favoreceram a motivação/curiosidade e verificou-se o desenvolvimento da socialização saudável que a prática pedagógica proporcionou dentro da sala de aula, permitindo excluir o fator memorização. Entre os resultados da Pesquisa-ação, as atividades lúdicas com jogos despertaram o interesse por Matemática, promoveram a competitividade, o raciocínio lógico e a busca por estratégias, estimularam a integração, fortaleceram a autoconfiança, aumentaram o aprendizado de operações com os números inteiros.
CULTURA, INSTITUIÇÕES E DESENVOLVIMENTO
Authors: Da Costa Eduardo Jose Monteiro
Published: August 2023

O artigo se propõe a organizar à vol d'oiseau a história do pensamento pertinente à relação entre instituições, cultura e desenvolvimento, selecionando os marcos mais relevantes. Para isto, está organizado em três partes. A primeira identifica as contribuições originais a partir de Alexis de Tocqueville, Georg Friedrich List, Escola Histórica Alemã de Economia Política (escola histórica) e Escola Institucionalista Americana (EIA). A segunda destaca o renascimento do debate nas décadas de 1970/80 que aproximou diversas áreas do conhecimento em um campo de pesquisa multidisciplinar que estabeleceu a compressão das desigualdades entre as nações como problemática central. A terceira seleciona contribuições recentes, como a de Douglass North, que exerce atualmente forte influência, as de autores que introduziram no debate o termo capital social (Pierre Bourdieu, James Coleman, Francis Fukuyama e Robert Putnam) e a de Daron Acemoglu e James Robinson. A parte derradeira é reservada para algumas conclusões acerca do estágio atual e desafios vindouros.
DESINDUSTRIALIZAÇÃO DO COMPLEXO ECONÔMICO-INDUSTRIAL DA SAÚDE E A PANDEMIA DO CORONAVÍRUS NO BRASIL
Authors: Alves Othon Hilton , Araujo Eliane , Araujo Elisangela Luzia , Peres Samuel Costa
Published: August 2023

Considerando a relevância da indústria para o crescimento econômico e também o advento da pandemia da COVID 19, esta pesquisa analisou a trajetória recente da indústria brasileira e, mais especificamente, dos setores atrelados ao Complexo Econômico-Industrial da Saúde (CEIS), a fim de analisar se este segmento estava preparado para lidar com a pandemia da COVID-19. Para tanto, foi discutido do ponto de vista teórico as questões da centralização da indústria, da complexidade econômica e da desindustrialização. Na sequência, o trabalho apresentou alguns dados sobre a trajetória da indústria nacional e, por fim, foi analisada a situação específica do sistema produtivo que envolve o CEIS. Os principais resultados da pesquisa indicaram que o Brasil vem enfrentando uma desindustrialização, dados a perda de complexidade da indústria, a redução de sua participação no emprego e/ou produção totais, além do aumento da dependência externa, levando à constatação de que a indústria brasileira, especificamente a ligada à saúde, não estava preparada para lidar com a pandemia de COVID 19.
DESENVOLVIMENTO ECONÔMICO MUNICIPAL: UMA ANÁLISE DO ÍNDICE FIRJAN DE DESENVOLVIMENTO MUNICIPAL – IFDM E PIB PER CAPITA DO MUNICÍPIO DE PARAUAPEBAS – PA
Authors: Lopes Arleson Eduardo Monte Palma , Rosário Estefany Laiana Costa do
Published: August 2023

O desenvolvimento econômico pode ser analisado sob o prisma do crescimento econômico, acumulação de capital e melhoria da qualidade de vida de uma sociedade. O artigo tem como objetivo analisar o desenvolvimento econômico do município de Parauapebas – PA à luz do PIB per capita e do Índice FIRJAN de Desenvolvimento Municipal – IFDM no período de 2010 a 2016. O arcabouço teórico está alicerçado na discussão de Desenvolvimento Econômico, Produto Interno Bruto e Índice FIRJAN de Desenvolvimento Municipal – IFDM. Quanto à metodologia adotada, o trabalho é caracterizado como quantitativa com estatísticas descritivas com base nos dados extraídos do Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística, da Fundação Amazônia de Amparo a Estudos e Pesquisa, além da análise dos gráficos gerados no portal FIRJAN. Ao longo da análise dos resultados foi possível identificar que (i) no período analisado existe uma relação direta entre o PIB per capita e IFDM Emprego & Renda, pois a medida que o PIB per capita declinou, o IFDM Emprego & Renda segue a mesma tendência; (ii) mesmo como declínio do PIB per capita e IFDM Emprego & Renda entre 2013 a 2016, o IFDM Educação e IFDM Saúde em todo o período analisado (2010 a 2016) apresentou crescimento, que no caso do IFDM Saúde, alcançou o patamar de alto estágio de desenvolvimento; e (iii) o município de Parauapebas – PA, ocupa a primeira posição no ranking estadual do Índice FIRJAN de Desenvolvimento Municipal – IFDM. Portanto, conclui-se que o município de Parauapebas – PA, apresenta uma dinâmica de desenvolvimento econômico municipal que cada vez mais tem buscado fazer uma combinação de fatores econômicos, sociais, entre outros.
Do deslocamento de línguas à retomada linguística no Baixo Tapajós: desestabilizando a ideia de monolinguismo
Authors: Silva Meirelles Sâmela Ramos da
Published: August 2023

Este trabalho discute o processo de retomada de línguas indígenas no Baixo Tapajós, oeste do estado do Pará, como um projeto político que desestabiliza um ideal monolíngue em português, tendo como ponto de partida uma reflexão sobre o deslocamento de línguas indígenas, resultado de um longo processo histórico de repressão linguística, que culminou com uma drástica redução da diversidade linguística. Apresentamos as bases epistemológicas orientadas pelos estudos decoloniais para refletir sobre o deslocamento linguístico e o esfacelamento da diversidade linguística relacionado às línguas indígenas. Discutimos a política de retomada do Munduruku e Nheengatu diante do silenciamento das continuidades étnicas, culturais, linguísticas e modos de vida indígenas. Consideramos que a retomada de línguas indígenas no Baixo Tapajós tem construído uma profunda mudança na dinâmica sociocultural da região, reinscrevendo vínculos ancestrais, subvertendo a ordem social e as classificações homogeneizantes.
Reflexões sobre o uso da letra “F” como neologismo no contexto de jogos online: da origem aos contextos atuais de uso
Authors: Okazaki Marcelo Eduardo Rodrigues , Nadin Odair Luiz
Published: August 2023

Com o aumento do uso da internet, as possibilidades de comunicação entre falantes das mais variadas línguas têm interferido de forma importante em variados âmbitos sociais, o que refletiu na maneira de se comunicar. No contexto de jogos online, os falantes envolvidos em interações linguísticas contribuem para o surgimento de unidades léxicas denominadas neologismos, neste caso, no Português do Brasil. Os neologismos, resultantes desse processo, podem, eventualmente, vir a se incorporar ao léxico do português. Pensando nisso, passamos a nos questionar sobre o conceito de palavra. Sendo assim, buscamos, nessa apresentação: (i) comparar algumas das variadas concepções linguísticas acerca do que se entende por palavra; (ii) refletir sobre a possibilidade de existência de significantes não convencionais que sejam considerados equivalentes a palavras; (iii) entender como surgiu e se consolidou o uso de “F” no contexto de jogos online com um significado relativo ao ato de prestar condolências.
Balancing Innovation and Regulation for Financial Inclusion: The Future of P2P Lending in Indonesia
Authors: SHI JIANZHENG , WANG YUE
Published: August 2023

This comprehensive analysis delves into Indonesia’s burgeoning Peer-to-Peer (P2P) lending sector, focusing on its transformative potential for financial inclusion and the inherent challenges of customer protection. The article scrutinizes the exponential growth trajectory of P2P lending platforms, a phenomenon propelled by escalating internet penetration, widespread smartphone usage, and a substantial unbanked population in the country. It also sheds light on the risks associated with the proliferation of illegal platforms outside the regulatory framework. The article underscores the need for robust regulatory compliance and effective risk management strategies to ensure customer protection and maintain market stability in this rapidly evolving sector. It delves into the regulatory measures established by Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK). It discusses the necessity for these regulations to be continuously reviewed and enhanced to keep pace with market developments. The article further explores the potential of P2P lending platforms in promoting financial inclusion by providing an accessible and convenient avenue for individuals and small businesses to access credit. It discusses how these platforms leverage alternative data for credit scoring, thereby enabling those without a traditional credit history to gain access to loans. In conclusion, the article emphasizes that striking a delicate balance between fostering innovation and ensuring stringent regulatory compliance is crucial for Indonesia’s sustainable growth of the P2P lending sector. It advocates for a regulatory environment that nurtures innovation while safeguarding customer interests and maintaining overall market stability. The article posits that achieving this balance will enable Indonesia to fully harness the potential of P2P lending, thereby driving financial inclusion while simultaneously ensuring customer protection and market stability.
"De vita coelitus comparanda" Marsilia Ficina jako przedstawienie hermetycznych praktyk odnowy człowieka
Authors: Olejnik Magdalena
Published: August 2023

The aim of this article is a reconstruction and interpretation of Marsilio Ficino's thoughts presented in "De vita coelitus camparanda" that, having a hermetic tinge to it, concern an idea of human's religious tranformation. In the article I attempt to demonstrate that "De vita coelitus camparanda" is a treaty of religious character which, contrary to the author's intentions, is closer to pagan religiousness than the christian one. Natural-magical efforts oficially presented by Ficino and efforts of demonic and ceremonial character suggested by him in some parts of the text constitute a complex of religious practices of hermetic origin that serve a purpose of human evolution. Methodology characteristic of magic — methodology that is subjectivistic but at the same time assumes that the human is a cosmos in micro scale, and a truly hermetic vision of reality indicate such a path of human’s rebirth that has no purely personal or local meaning but possesses a cosmic dimension.