bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Historical and Cultural Heritage of Towns of the Republic of Crimea in the Context of Constructing the Image of the City
Authors:   Crimean University of Culture, Arts and Tourism, Simferopol, Russian Federation, Normanskaya Anzhela
Published: June 2024

At the current stage of development, towns are in a difficult socio-economic situation, when the slowdown in economic and social development is caused by multilevel processes of an internal, regional and national nature. In many ways, the successful existence and functioning of a city depends on its image, i.e. attractiveness both for investors and tourists, and for the inner society – its citizens. In modern conditions, historical and cultural heritage is the basis of identity and continuity of generations, which, among other things, largely determines the image of each city. The relevance of the work is determined by the significance of the historical and cultural heritage of towns of the Republic of Crimea in the socio-cultural and economic development of the region. The new economic reality actualizes the solution of a complex set of problems that hinder the attraction of investments in towns and are associated with the limited economic base, the low level of development of infrastructure facilities and the socio-cultural sphere. The study of the existing complex of monuments of historical and cultural heritage makes it possible to determine the cultural potential of towns in Crimea and the prospects for its use. The subject of the study is the analysis of the historical and cultural heritage of towns of the Republic of Crimea as an integral part of the urban image. The current development strategy of these cities is aimed at finding, developing and implementing effective methods of adaptation to modern realities, and creating more favorable living conditions for the population. As a result of historical-comparative and structural-functional analyses, the study identifies a close relationship between the cultural potential of towns in Crimea and external factors of influence (geographical and historical-cultural conditions of settlement development).
Espaços públicos urbanos, qualidade de vida e saúde: uma revisão integrativa da literatura
Authors: Silva Kelly Queiroz Carvalho da , Toledo Renata Ferraz de
Published: June 2024

O crescimento das cidades e da população revelam diversos problemas socioambientais e de saúde, assim, a manutenção da qualidade de vida nas áreas urbanas torna-se desafiador. Neste contexto, este artigo objetiva promover reflexões e discussões sobre possíveis contribuições de espaços públicos urbanos para a qualidade de vida e saúde, a partir da investigação de publicações acadêmicas sobre a temática, identificação e análise de diferentes usos de espaços urbanos públicos, bem como potencialidades e desafios, enquanto espaços promotores de saúde e qualidade de vida. Trata-se de uma revisão bibliográfica integrativa, desenvolvida pela busca de publicações no Scielo e Ebsco. A partir dos descritores, combinações, critérios de inclusão/exclusão e seleção prévia foram identificadas 31 publicações. Após leitura aprofundada destas, foram selecionados para análise 12 artigos. Justifica-se a relevância desta pesquisa por sua abordagem interdisciplinar e atualização do que vem sendo publicado sobre a relação espaço público e qualidade de vida. Dentre os resultados destacam-se: diferentes entendimentos de espaços públicos; características destes espaços que influenciam na qualidade de vida, como a mobilidade urbana, o acesso à saúde, áreas verdes, economia e segurança; benefícios importantes, como conforto térmico e ambiental, espaços de sociabilidade, lazer e cultura, etc., os quais, por sua vez, só serão alcançados com processos adequados de planejamento e gestão participativa. Destaca-se, por fim, que espaços públicos podem contribuir tanto para reduzir como para ampliar a desigualdade espacial, tão presente em áreas urbanas. Espera-se que o artigo traga contribuições a novos estudos em diferentes áreas do conhecimento.
A trend of "geomagnetic jerks" in the inhibition of the earth's south magnetic pole?
Authors: AV Tertyshnikov
Published: June 2024

The possibility of a reversal in the displacement of the Earth's South Magnetic Pole (SMP), the speed of which has decreased threefold over the past 60 years, is being discussed, which does not contradict the theory of “geomagnetic jerks.” The results of the experiment on measurements of magnetic declination on 6-9.04.2020 in the Southern Ocean are presented. Remote measurements are caused by the fact that during the day the SMP moves along a quasi-closed perimeter with semi-axis sizes up to 50 km. The discrepancies between the magnetic declination measurements and the model isogons of the International Geomagnetic Reference Field (IGRF13) model allow us to estimate the daily average position of the SMP. An example with the estimation of magnetic deviation of ship magnetic declination observations affecting the SMP position determinations is analyzed.
The Effects of Tai Chi on Insomnia Based on Multi-modal Brain Functional Connection and Signal Extraction: A Protocol for Randomized Controlled Trial v1
Authors: Li Jinying
Published: June 2024

Background: Insomnia is a prevalent and costly disorder that poses a significant health burden and may be associated with abnormal brain functional connectivity. Tai Chi has shown promise as a non-pharmacological therapy in improving sleep quality in insomnia patients, but the underlying brain network mechanisms remain unclear. This study utilized advanced multimodal brain function analysis techniques, including resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), to investigate how Tai Chi affects brain networks in individuals with insomnia. The research aims to assess the therapeutic effects of Tai Chi in different intervention cycles and to explore the potential for Tai Chi to become the preferred non-pharmacological treatment for insomnia. Methods: This study is designed as a parallel, single-blind, randomized controlled clinical trial (RCT) involving 36 participants. Eligible patients will be divided into three groups: Tai Chi group, Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTI) group and Health education group, in a 1:1:1 ratio with 12 subjects in each subgroup. The primary outcomes will be LC resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI); Hemoglobin (HbO) and deoxyhemoglobin (HbR) of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) will be measured by functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). The secondary outcomes will be pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI), insomnia severity index (ISI), and hamilton anxiety scale (HAMA). Outcomes will be evaluated at baseline, 4, 8, and 12-week post treatment, as well as at 4-week follow-up. Discussion: This study is the first randomized controlled trial to investigate the effects of Tai Chi on insomnia by incorporating multimodal information such as brain functional connectivity signals and cerebral oxygenation signals, aiming to assess the therapeutic efficacy of Tai Chi on insomnia and to clarify its intervention mechanism. This study has the potential to significantly impact the field of insomnia treatment and sleep disorder research by providing valuable insights into the therapeutic effects of Tai Chi. Trial Registration: The study protocol has been registered in the China Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2300077348).
In vitro digestion method for Atlantic salmon v1
Authors: Radhakrishnan Gopika , Silva marta , Belghit Ikram
Published: June 2024

This in vitro digestion method was used to evaluate amino acid solubility of different black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) meals and experimental diets for Atlantic salmon. Three types of insect meal that had been through different processing techniques included: a microwave full fat BSFL (BSFM), defatted BSFL meal with an enzymatic pre-treatment (BSFE) and a defatted BSFL meal without enzymatic pre-treatment (BSFH).
“Leveraging AI Tools to Bridge the Healthcare Gap in Rural Areas in India" v1
Authors: Kerketta Ajit
Published: June 2024

Introduction:Despite considerable progress in the healthcare sector, rural areas continue to grapple with healthcare deficiencies, which eventually impact the quality of health outcomes. However, the emergence of AI technology offers promising solutions to overcome these hurdles. Hence, the study explores the potential and efficacy of introducing artificial intelligence (AI) tools to address the healthcare disparity in rural India. Methods:The research employed a literature review method and gathered data from various databases such as Science Direct, PubMed, and Google Scholar. The screening process was aided by the Rayyan electronic software. Articles published inEnglish between January 2020 and December 2022 were selected, followed by a thematic analysis of the findings. Results:Results indicate the potential of AI in rural healthcare settings, showing AI-driven solutions addressing healthcare access gaps and contributing to their bridging. The study also highlights hurdles related to AI tool adoption in rural healthcare and proposes collaborative efforts among policymakers, healthcare providers, and technology developers to integrate AI toolseffectively. This necessitates advocating for digital infrastructure investments, capacity-building initiatives, and conducive regulatory frameworks for AI implementation. Conclusion: The study underscores AI's transformative role in bridging the healthcare gap in rural India. By harnessing AI technologies, healthcare providers and policymakers can surmount barriers, empower local healthcare workers, and improve health outcomes for rural communities The insights and recommendations contribute to the evolving knowledge base on leveraging AI for adequate healthcare delivery, guiding future initiatives in similar contexts. Keywords:Artificial Intelligence, Healthcare gap, Rural areas, remote patient monitoring, healthcare outcome.
Russian Orthodox Churches “Under the Bells”: Semantic Features and Origin of the Worldview
Authors:   Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Mainicheva A. Y.
Published: June 2024

В статье впервые выявляются духовные и религиозные основы построения русских православных церквей «иже под колоколы», специфика их семантики и роль в формировании картины мира. Характеризуются архитектурные особенности подколокольных храмов, относящихся к редкому типу церквей, которые известны в России с XIV в. и возводятся вплоть до настоящего времени. Рассматривается многоаспектная семантика церквей, сложившаяся под влиянием сочетания византийских и европейских традиций, и воплощение в их архитектуре значимых в православном вероучении идеологем. Установлено, что основополагающей теософемой выступает лестница как образ духовного совершенствования; об этом говорят известные посвящения подколокольных церквей свв. Столпникам, а также во имя чудесных событий вероучения, имеющих преобразовательную коннотацию; в честь святых, почитаемых в православии как проповедники, трактовавших и развивавших основополагающие понятия, и тех, кто, приобщившись к вере, пошел по пути развития духа. Определено, что в основе посвящений престолов чудесным событиям и чудотворным иконам, связанным с воинской славой, и святым воинам-победоносцам, покровителям военных, лежит идея победоносности животворящего столпа креста. Образ колокола как провозвестника Бога нашел выражение в том, что в подколокольных храмах колокола расположены непосредственно над литургическим пространством и несут пастве «глас Божий» прямо из сакрального пространства. Сделан вывод о том, что столпообразные здания храмов «иже под колоколы» представляют собой значимые элементы картины мира русских, акустически и визуально маркирующие православный культурный ландшафт, характеризуемый идеологемами духовного развития и торжества христианской веры.
Ayniyat Defterlerine Göre II. Mahmud Döneminde İstanbul’un İzmir’den Talepleri
Authors: Gürel Zeynep , Gökmen Ertan
Published: June 2024

Osmanlı İmparatorluğu’nun başkenti olan İstanbul’un iaşesini sağlamak Osmanlı yöneticileri için her zaman çok önemli bir görev olmuştur. İstanbul siyasi ve iktisadi bir merkez olması nedeniyle bünyesinde büyük bir nüfus barındırıyordu. Kendi içinde ürettiği ürünler nüfusunun ihtiyaçlarını karşılamaya yetmiyordu. Bu yüzden iaşecilik politikasının gereği olarak İstanbul’un ihtiyaç duyduğu pek çok ürün Anadolu’dan ve Rumeli’den karşılanıyordu. Bu anlamda Batı Anadolu’nun önemli üretim merkezlerinden olan İzmir’den de İstanbul için bazı ürünlerin istendiği oluyordu. Bu çalışmada ayniyat defterleri ışığında II. Mahmud döneminde İzmir’den İstanbul halkının ve ordunun ihtiyaçları için istenen değişik malzeme ve ürünler incelenmiştir. Ayniyat defterlerinde yerel idarecilerden mütesellim, voyvoda, ayan, muhafız, gümrükçü ve kadıya hitaben yazılmış pek çok mektup ve kaime bulunmaktadır. Yerel idarecilere hitaben yazılan bu yazılarda sabundan, kendire, kahveden balmumuna kadar değişik ürünler bulunmaktadır. İzmir için yapılan bu talepler tasnif edilerek çalışmada farklı başlıklar altında ele alınmış ve bu taleplerle ilgili yapılanların seyri ayniyat defterlerindeki bilgiler ışığında ortaya konulmaya çalışılmıştır.
Çalışma Hayatında Güven ve Güvensizliğin Sonuçları: Nitel Bir Araştırma
Authors: Tanğ Yavuz
Published: June 2024

Güven, kişinin ortaya koyduğu olumlu bir davranış sonrası, karşı tarafın aynı şekilde karşılık vereceğine ya da en azında zarar vermeyeceğine yönelik olumlu beklentisidir. Güvensizlik ise, karşı tarafın ortaya koyduğu davranış sebebiyle kişinin zarar göreceğine yönelik endişe ve korku taşıması ve olumsuz davranışlara karşı kendini korumaya çalışmasıdır. Bu çalışmada, güven ve güvensizliğin, verilen tanımlar doğrultusunda, çalışma hayatında ne gibi sonuçlar ortaya çıkaracağı incelenmiştir. Bu kapsamda nitel araştırma uygulanmış, çeşitli sektörlerden 24 çalışan ile yarı-yapılandırılmış görüşme tekniği kullanılarak derinlemesine görüşme yapılmıştır. Analiz sonucunda, güven ve güvensizliğin sonuçları şeklinde iki tema oluşturulmuş, güvenin sonuçları teması için 16 kod ve 121 kodlama, güvensizliğin sonuçları teması için ise 19 kod ve 115 kodlama elde edilmiştir. Sonuçlar, tema-kod modeli, kod dağılım grafiği ve kodlar arası ilişkiler haritası şeklinde görselleştirilerek açıklanmıştır. Çalışma hayatında güvenin en çok dile getirilen sonucu “verimlilik ve performansta artış” olurken, güvensizliğin ise “tedirgin ve temkinli olmak” sonucu olmuştur.
Determining the Financial Efficiency of Mega Events
Authors: Güldoğan Murat , İnce Ferhat
Published: June 2024

Mega events, providing prestige and economic contributions to host cities and countries, are of great importance in terms of internationalization. In addition to their extra advantages, these events must be organized efficiently for sustainable development. To the best of our knowledge, although some studies investigate the efficiency of countries participating in mega-events, no study concentrates on the efficiency of mega-events as an organization. Accordingly, this study examines the financial efficiency of each sub-event of three mega-events: the Summer Olympic Games, the Winter Olympic Games, and the FIFA Men's World Cup. In this context, the bootstrap DEA method was utilized. The findings revealed that almost all mega events were organized inefficiently. It is thought that addressing the efficiency levels of mega-events at the organizational scope might yield a new perspective for mega-event authorities and lead to new literature.
An Analysis of Validebağ Grove from the Lens of Urban Political Ecology
Authors: Boyalı Ayşegül , Baykan Ayşegül
Published: June 2024

This paper adopts the critical lens of UPE, short for Urban Political Ecology, to examine the socio-political underpinnings of public green space in the 21st-century neoliberal urban regime, particularly focusing on Istanbul's historic Validebağ Grove. Conducting a historical analysis, this study elucidates how Validebağ's socio-nature has been reshaped over time amidst the evolving political and economic forces, with a particular focus on the aftermath of the 1980’s, since when neoliberal urban policies have been hegemonic in the spatial governance of Istanbul. We show the marginalization of Validebağ’s use-value following the military rule of 1980, the commercialization of its socio-nature through deregulation and re-regulation, and the grove’s instrumentalization for urban capitalist growth through park projects proposed by the local municipality. We demonstrate how the “ideology of nature” and its “technocratic” management are instrumental in employing urban green as a capital accumulation strategy within the 21st neoliberal urban governance.
Old-Age-Based and Disability-Focused: A Scoping Literature Review on the Intersection of Older Persons’ Rights and Disability Rights
Authors: Tolub Yotam , Mor Sagit , Doron Israel
Published: June 2024

Elder law and disability law have historically developed separately, with minimal interaction. However, there are many similarities and shared interests between both fields and both groups – older persons and persons with disabilities. This paper is the first attempt to comparatively analyze the legal academic publications that have addressed both disability and older persons’ rights in the last two decades. Using a systematic scoping review methodology, we quantitatively analyzed 180 articles published in the last two decades in legal journals and qualitatively analyzed seventeen of these articles that directly address the relationship between both fields. This systematic review yielded a comprehensive up-to-date quantitative and qualitative picture of the relationship between disability law and elder law. Our findings show that current comparative literature is one-directional, as it is ‘old-age-based’ and ‘disability-focused’. The analysis produced five elements characterizing the relationship between the two fields: similarities, differences, tension, separation efforts and bridging efforts. Discussing these findings, this paper suggests two different narratives to explain the revealed relationship. One emphasizes the subtle manifestations of ageism in disability studies and disability law and ableism in gerontology and elder law. The other highlights the different histories of both fields and the human rights movements they serve. More broadly, the paper demonstrates the benefits of a systematic scoping review as an empirical methodology for comparative research generally, and specifically, the opportunities that an open dialogue between elder law and disability law provides.
Unmasking the Disparities: A Case Study of Inequality and Disadvantage Experienced by Ethnic Minority Students Made Visible during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Kbaier D. , Kane A. , Mostefaoui S. Kouadri
Published: June 2024

This paper explores lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic about pre-existing inequalities for the progression and retention of Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME*) students while proposing strategies to mitigate disadvantage. The research assesses study performance and progression patterns using quantitative data analytics and conducts qualitative focus groups to understand students’ experiences during COVID-19. Combining quantitative data analysis and qualitative insights provides a richer interpretation of the experiences and performance of these students during the pandemic. COVID-19 made visible and exacerbated pre-existing structural and institutional inequalities and disadvantages experienced by BAME students engaged in distance learning. The findings, although specific to The Open University and Level 1 Computing modules, can be generalized with further research to explore their applicability to other educational settings and disciplines. Our findings can inform the development of targeted interventions and support strategies to address disparities and mitigate their impact, and the methodology and analysis developed can easily be extended to include other modules in future studies. These findings contribute to promoting equality and creating an inclusive learning environment in higher education, offering a unique contribution to the existing literature by specifically examining the impact of COVID-19 in exposing inequalities experienced by ethnic minority students. Recommendations arising from the study include enhancing support structures, revisiting evidence requirements to reduce barriers to support, fostering a sense of community and belonging, increasing diversity among staff members, conducting thorough data analysis for evidence-based decision-making, developing individualized support plans for students, revisiting tuition strategies to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment, providing proactive support and monitoring, enhancing the user-friendliness of resources, improving unconscious bias training, and preserving a focus on equity, diversity, and inclusion in the face of financial challenges.
ICT Strategies in Saudi Universities: Problems and Solutions for Effective Use
Authors: Alturise Fahad
Published: June 2024

The integration of ICT in universities is a complex idea that requires practical interpretation for beneficial outcomes to emerge. As a developing country, Saudi Arabia faces many barriers when implementing ICT, especially in its universities. Improving the usage of ICT in Saudi Arabian universities entails integrating ICT so that all stakeholders, students, faculty members, and administrative staff can use the technology properly. This paper points out the most important problems facing Saudi Arabian universities, proposes several strategies to overcome these challenges, and reports on interviews conducted with key stakeholders in relation to the proposed strategies.
Exploration of the Application of PBL Teaching Model in Ideological and Political Courses
Authors: Wang Ting , Yang Lisha
Published: June 2024

Ideological and political courses are predominantly characterized by a didactic traditional teaching model, the limitations of which have become increasingly apparent over the course of long-term educational practice, urgently necessitating the introduction of innovative teaching models to ignite students’ enthusiasm for learning. The exploration of the application of the PBL (Problem-Based Learning) teaching model in ideological and political courses can offer students a more in-depth and comprehensive learning experience, conducive to fostering their problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, and team spirit. This paper, grounded in the PBL teaching model—a problem-oriented approach to instruction—seeks to explore the application and potential of this teaching model in the teaching of ideological and political courses, with the aim of enhancing the quality and effectiveness of such courses.
Economic Development and Suicide in Thailand
Authors: Tirapat Sunti
Published: June 2024

After the recent pandemic, suicide has emerged as one of the serious public concerns in Thailand. While suicide rates experienced a peak immediately after the 1997 financial crisis and subsequently declined steadily until 2019, a recent trend indicates a disconcerting resurgence. Suicides can be attributed to the psychosocial, social, and economic stress encountered by individuals, all of which are influenced by the extent of economic development. This study aims to investigate socio-economic factors and their impacts related to suicide rates in Thailand during the period of 2012–2021. Based on the provincial-level panel data, the results show a robust negative association of suicide rate with both income and population density. It also finds that the mitigating impacts on suicide are more pronounced among males compared to females. This finding may reflect Thai cultural norms where males are considered the heads of households. With respect to social factors, the results show a negative association between school density and suicide rates, while intriguingly, temple density and the level of financial development exhibit a positive influence. When considering the potential impact of austerity measures implemented during COVID-19 on suicide, it is found that the negative effect of population density on suicide lessens during the pandemic. A plausible explanation may be due to the fear of contagion and the spread of the virus. Furthermore, it reveals that Thai males are more responsive to the pandemic than females. Overall, the study provides insights into Thai suicide rates and the findings underscore the complexity of suicide. Lastly, given inherent data constraints, these findings remain preliminary, and a more extensive inquiry is needed to offer an effective suicide prevention policy.
Peran CSR Mondelez International dalam Membentuk Customer Loyalty
Authors: Pratiwi Citra , Winurrahman Affan Hasby
Published: June 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis peran Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) PT. Mondelez International dalam membentuk loyalitas pelanggan. PT. Mondelez International merupakan produsen makanan ringan terbesar di dunia, dan telah memasukkan program keberlanjutan sebagai pilar strategi pertumbuhan jangka Panjang. Melalui program CSR seperti Cocoa Life, Mondelez International berkomitmen untuk memberikan dampak positif pada lingkungan dan Masyarakat sekitar. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif deskriptif dengan studi kasus sebagai metodenya. Dalam penelitian ini, peran CSR dalam pembentukan loyalitas pelanggan terutama terlihat pada tahap advocacy, dimana pelanggan mulai mengetahui misi etis Perusahaan. Namun, pada tahapan sebelumnya dalam Customer Journey, peran CSR tidak begitu terlihat, dengan didominasi pengaruh iklan merek melalui media televisi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa kesadaran pelanggan terhadap isu keberlanjutan dan program CSR dapat meningkatkan kepuasan dan kebanggan pelanggan, yang membawa pada loyalitas pelanggan. Program CSR juga memainkan peran penting dalam membangun reputasi peruasahaan, yang merupakan faktor penting dalam mempertahankan loyalitas pelanggan.
An unusual case of retained placenta managed by hysterotomy
Authors: Singh Suneeta , Goyal Bhupesh Kumar , Sharma Sanjay Kumar , Aziz Atiya , Mesta Jeevan
Published: June 2024

When the placenta does not expel after 30 minutes of delivery of fetus it is said to be retained. It can be a cause of post-partum haemorrhage. It may result from poor uterine contractions. The most common source of a trapped placenta is from a partial closure of the cervix and/or a contracted lower uterine segment. We present an unusual case of a retained placenta trapped in a myometrial sacculation at the left angular region of the uterus.
Myasthenia gravis in pregnancy: a rare disorder with multidisciplinary management
Authors: Varun Neha , Kumari Rajesh
Published: June 2024

Myasthenia gravis is a rare autoimmune disorder characterized by nicotinic acetylcholine receptor autoantibodies, affecting the neuromuscular transmission leading to progressive weakness. As this disease is seen in the reproductive age group, clinicians need to be aware of this condition and its multidisciplinary management which is the key to successful outcome. Myasthenia gravis especially when associated with pregnancy is a high-risk condition, that may affect both the mother and the fetus and may result in adverse outcome. The pregnancy course is unpredictable with MG.
Optimizing gynecologic surgical outcomes: embracing enhanced recovery strategies
Authors: Gupta Sumedha , Kalwaniya Dheer Singh
Published: June 2024

The implementation of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathways represents a concerted effort to optimize patient outcomes in the perioperative period while minimizing postoperative complications and readmissions. ERAS achieves these objectives through the integration of various elements into a comprehensive perioperative management program, aimed at reducing surgical stress and its associated repercussions. Key principles of ERAS encompass preoperative counselling, nutritional strategies, emphasis on regional anaesthesia and nonopioid analgesics, meticulous fluid balance, maintenance of normothermia, and promotion of postoperative recovery strategies such as early mobilization and thromboprophylaxis. The benefits of ERAS are manifold, including shorter hospital stays, diminished postoperative pain and analgesic requirements, expedited return of bowel function, reduced complication and readmission rates, and heightened patient satisfaction, all achieved without elevating readmission, mortality, or reoperation rates. Effective adoption of ERAS necessitates institutions to evaluate their infrastructure and patient flow to support its implementation adequately. Furthermore, sustainable ERAS programs should be seamlessly integrated as a standard model of care within healthcare delivery systems. The success of ERAS hinges upon the simultaneous implementation of its multiple components, underscoring its holistic approach. Institutions are urged to endorse the adoption of ERAS pathways emphatically as a means to enhance patient care and improve perioperative outcomes.
Prevalence of asymptomatic nephrolithiasis amongst prospective living kidney donors
Authors: Uzodimma E. Onwuasoanya , Olatise O. Olalekan , Agrawal K. Rajesh , Obiatuegwu O. Kenechukwu , Ekwuazi O. Hyginus
Published: June 2024

Background: About 12% of men and 5% of women will develop symptomatic nephrolithiasis during their lifetime. Symptomatic nephrolithiasis is linked to many systemic conditions such as metabolic syndrome, chronic kidney disease and hyperparathyroidism. Not much is known about the prevalence of nephrolithiasis in asymptomatic patients as well as their association with systemic conditions seen in the symptomatic subset.
Methods: This is a retrospective study of all prospective living kidney donors who presented to Zenith Medical and Kidney Centre, Abuja, Nigeria between January 2022 and December 2022. Relevant information was retrieved from the institution’s computer database, entered in a structured proforma and analyzed with SPSS version 25.0. Results were reported in percentages, mean±standard deviation.
Results: A total of 133 patients were recruited for the study, the age range was 18-52 years with mean age of 27.47 years and standard deviation of 6.8. The male to female ratio was 15.6:1. The body mass was greater than 30 kg/m2 in 4.8% of patients. Hypertension was found in 5.3% while urinary tract infection was found in 24.1% of the patients. Nephrolithiasis was seen in 5.3% of the patients, with size ranging from 2.14mm to 9.4mm, the stone was bilateral in 0.8% of the patients.
Conclusions: The prevalence of asymptomatic nephrolithiasis amongst prospective kidney donors is 5.3%. Asymptomatic kidney stone formers have different demographic characteristics and lack the co-morbidities described in symptomatic kidney stone formers.
Derangement in renal function after stoma creation in a tertiary care centre
Authors: Bagre Rajendra , Gupta Ayush , Kumar Ritesh , Srinivas Vinay , Kumar Naveen , Kumar Nitish
Published: June 2024

Background: We assessed the derangements of renal functions and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) due to dehydration and poor nutrition in stoma patients before the creation of stoma, on discharge and on readmission (closure/complication).
Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study in 50 patients of both sexes of age group 16-80yr undergoing stoma formation either as an emergency or elective procedure. Changes in levels of urea, creatinine and GFR were checked preoperatively, on discharge and on follow up within 3 months. Diet of the patient, possibility of sepsis and other treatment including nephrotoxic drug treatment history was assessed.
Results: Fifty patients including 27 males and 23 females of age group 16-75yr were included in this study. The most common stoma was loop ileostomy in 32 cases followed by double barrel ileostomy in 11 cases. Ileal perforation and ileal stricture are the 2 most common causes of stoma formation and 78% of stoma were made as an emergency procedure. We found that 56% of the cases presented with deranged renal functions and GFR on readmission.
Conclusions: Deranged GFR was due to dehydration by high output and poor intake leading to renal injury and deranged renal functions. Proper counselling of the patient regarding nutritious diet, refeeding and adequate hydration is important to prevent renal failure in stoma patient.
Clinical presentation of pancreatic disorders: a prospective cohort study of 25 cases
Authors: Pahuja Vivek , Singh Sarabjit , Walia Bhupinder S. , Dugg Pankaj , Jain Nitish
Published: June 2024

Background: Pancreatic disorders are one of the commonest abdominal disorders presented to a surgeon. The study focuses on demographic profile, clinical presentation and outcome of pancreatic disorders.
Methods: All cases of pancreatic disorders admitted to surgical ward were included in this study. The clinical presentations, laboratory and radiographic investigations were recorded. Statistical analysis was done on SPSS software version 21.
Results: Majority of patients belong to age group of 41-50 years (48%) with male predominance (3.2:1). However, the mean age was 36.06 years. Most common presentation was acute pancreatitis (68%) but the findings were not significant (p>0.05). Alcohol and biliary colic remained the majority of cause for pancreatic disorders.
Conclusions: Pancreatic disorders are common in males in 5th decade of life. Alcohol and biliary calculi are the most common culprits for pancreatic disorders.
Management of necrotizing fasciitis due to a human bite: case report
Authors: Elkamch Hind , Mesbahi Anas , Brahmi Achraf , Hafidi Jawad , Gharib Noureddine , Abassi Abdelah , Elmazouz Samir
Published: June 2024

Human bites, often underestimated, present significant risks of infection, with necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) posing a severe threat due to their rapid progression. We present a case of a 72-year-old diabetic male with a human bite on his forearm, leading to NSTI. Despite initially superficial symptoms, including fever and localized pain, the condition rapidly deteriorated, necessitating surgical intervention. The patient underwent multiple debridement procedures and antibiotic therapy, resulting in wound healing. Human bites predominantly affect young males and can occur in various anatomical regions. Microbial flora in the oral cavity increases infection risk, with diabetic individuals being particularly vulnerable due to compromised immunity and delayed wound healing. Prompt diagnosis, antibiotic therapy, and surgical intervention are crucial in managing NSTIs, emphasizing the importance of early medical attention and vigilance in human bite injuries to prevent adverse outcomes like sepsis and mortality.
A rare case report of Langerhans cell histiocytosis exclusive to the colon in adults
Authors: Martins Daniela , Tenreiro Nádia , Cubal Francisco , Dupont Margarida , Costa Pedro , Pinto-de-Sousa João
Published: June 2024

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare disease characterized by abnormal proliferation of atypical Langerhans cells, predominantly affecting children. Adult-onset LCH is even rarer and typically involves the lungs, bones, and skin. There is a shortage of knowledge regarding various aspects related to its origin, evolution, and treatment. We present a case of a 63-year-old female with an exceptional manifestation of single-organ LCH in the colon, discovered incidentally during routine colorectal cancer screening. The patient's past medical history included a right colectomy for an ileal neuroendocrine tumor with hepatic metastasis. A comprehensive diagnostic workup revealed a BRAF V600E mutation in LCH tumor cells. The patient did not receive any systemic therapy and remains asymptomatic at the 9-month mark post-diagnosis. This case underscores the complexity of LCH diagnosis and the need for multidisciplinary management.
A rare case of giant GIST: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Muthukumarasamy Thiruvarul , Ravikumar Sumathi , Kumar Vijay , . Venkatraman
Published: June 2024

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors are very rare tumors that constitute less than 1 percent of entire tumors of GIT. The case reported here is a 60 years male who came with complaints of mass in the abdomen and constipation. On examination, he had guarding. Radiological evaluation revealed a heterogenous mass behind the lesser sac displacing the solid organs posteriorly. And hence we proceeded with total gastrectomy with esophago-jejunostomy.  Histopathological examination revealed GIST arising from stomach which was positive for CD34 and C-KIT. Post-surgery patient was started on adjuvant imatinib therapy.
A distinctive case of gastrosplenic fistula: comprehending melioidosis
Authors: T. J. Clement  Prakash , Abraham John , Akhoury Ambikha , Sophia S. , Jacob Anieta Merin
Published: June 2024

This case report delves into an exceedingly rare case of gastrosplenic fistula and concurrent upper GI bleeding in the setting of melioidosis. Although upper GI bleeding is often encountered in the clinical setting, the co-existence of a gastrosplenic fistula adds an unprecedented amount of complexity. Melioidosis is an infectious disease endemic to certain geographic regions of the world, namely that of Southeast Asia and Northern Australia. Burkholderia pseudomallei, the culprit organism, is associated with bioterrorism on account of which it has gained notoriety in recent years. This case underscores the array of diagnostic challenges that were combated and the prompt surgical intervention in the form of a splenectomy and partial gastrectomy that culminated in a favorable outcome. Coordination in a temporal fashion and multidisciplinary collaboration between surgeons and physicians was imperative to success. This report emphasizes the significance of recognizing and addressing the atypical manifestations of the disease as it challenges the conventional understanding of melioidosis and offers significant insights into the realm of infectious disease, at large.
Casos de estudio en la gestión pública y privada de residuos: un enfoque en la sostenibilidad financiera
Authors: Cattani Yan , Igrejas Rafael
Published: June 2024

La sostenibilidad financiera en la gestión de residuos sólidos hace referencia a la necesidad de asegurar la viabilidad económica a largo plazo de los sistemas de manejo de residuos. Esto implica generar ingresos suficientes para cubrir los costos operativos y de capital, así como la búsqueda de fuentes de financiamiento sostenibles para la implementación de nuevas tecnologías y programas de gestión. Esta perspectiva pretende garantizar que la gestión de residuos sólidos sea ambientalmente sostenible, socialmente justa y económicamente viable a largo plazo (Hoornweg, 2012). De acuerdo con el Programa de las Naciones Unidas para el Medio Ambiente, los modelos de financiación de la gestión de residuos que recaudan los ingresos indirectamente, como parte de otros impuestos, o directamente, a través de tasas al consumidor pueden funcionar, siempre que el sistema sea transparente y responda al comportamiento de sus usuarios (UNEP, 2015). Además, el uso de instrumentos de financiación innovadores, como la Responsabilidad Extendida del Productor (REP) y las tasas de subproductos de valorización, puede aumentar la eficacia de los fondos destinados a la gestión de residuos. Esta publicación presenta cinco casos de esquemas de manejo de residuos sólidos que buscaron soluciones para asegurar la sostenibilidad financiera. La selección de estos casos se realizó basándose en estudios de mercado y bibliografía, considerando criterios específicos como la existencia de un marco normativo, acuerdos contractuales vigentes, claridad en la gobernanza; y la ya mencionada sostenibilidad financiera. Los casos elegidos provienen de tres países de América Latina (Brasil, Colombia y Panamá) y un país de Europa (Portugal). En Brasil se eligieron el Consorcio Intermunicipal del Médio Vale do Itajaí (CIMVI) y la empresa Ambiental Participações S.A.; en Colombia, se analizó el caso del modelo tarifario empleado en el Distrito Capital de Bogotá; en Panamá, se estudió el caso de Veolia en La Chorrera; y en Portugal se eligió la operación de LIPOR (Serviço Intermunicipalizado de Gestão de Resíduos do Grande Porto). La metodología utilizada para este estudio combinó un conjunto de métodos cualitativos, que incluyeron una revisión de la literatura, entrevistas realizadas con un guion semiestructurado y un análisis (Wengraf, 2001; Bardin, 1979) dividido en tres áreas: aspectos normativos e institucionales; aspectos tecnológicos, sociales y ambientales y aspectos económico-financieros.
Panamá en transición: análisis y recomendaciones para un futuro energético justo y sostenible
Authors: Espino Moreno Ricardo , Alarcón Arturo , Beltrán Leonardo
Published: June 2024

En 2015, Panamá elaboró su Plan Energético Nacional a 2050 (presentado en 2016), el cual incluyó propuestas para iniciar un proceso de transición energética de largo plazo, así como el análisis de diversos escenarios de desarrollo del sector. Al transcurrir cerca de 9 años de ese hito, es posible analizar la evolución de este proceso. Este documento tiene el objetivo de evaluar los avances en el sector energético panameño y proponer acciones de política energética para continuar con un proceso de transición energética justo y sostenible. El análisis del proceso de transición energética considera como base el año 2015, y evalúa cuantitativamente los cambios en indicadores energéticos claves al 2024. El análisis identifica también las políticas energéticas claves que han sido propuestas en este período, además de acciones de política que el país ha implementado. Finalmente, se identifican algunas lecciones aprendidas y se esbozan tanto los desafíos como las recomendaciones de próximos pasos para continuar con el proceso de transición energética en el país.
Lectura digital en estudiantes universitarios: contribuciones del funcionamiento ejecutivo y hábitos lectores
Authors: Tabullo Ángel-Javier , Pulifiato-Hamann Enrique-Salvador
Published: June 2024

El presente estudio examinó la comprensión de textos expositivos y narrativos en pantalla y su relación con las funciones ejecutiva, los hábitos lectores y el soporte preferido (papel o pantallas) para lectura de estudio o recreativa, en estudiantes universitarios. Participaron noventa y ocho estudiantes universitarios (76.8% mujeres, edad promedio: M = 20.6, DS = 5.24 años), quienes completaron una tarea de comprensión de un texto expositivo y uno narrativo presentados en pantalla, una evaluación computarizada de las funciones ejecutivas (memoria de trabajo, flexibilidad cognitiva, inhibición), una encuesta de hábitos lectores y un test de reconocimiento de autores. La memoria de trabajo fue un predictor de la comprensión en general, mientras que la flexibilidad se asoció al texto expositivo. La exposición a la ficción contribuyó específicamente al texto narrativo. Los alumnos acostumbrados a estudiar en pantalla tuvieron un mejor desempeño en el texto expositivo que quienes prefieren el papel. La contribución de las funciones ejecutivas a la comprensión en pantallas es similar a la observada en estudios de lectura en papel. El efecto del soporte preferido sugiere que la práctica podría compensar la modalidad de lectura más superficial que se observa típicamente en estudios de lectura en medios digitales.
Narraciones gamificadas y evaluación de competencias en la formación inicial del profesorado
Authors: Villalustre-Martínez Lourdes
Published: June 2024

La gamificación está siendo utilizada tanto como una herramienta de aprendizaje como un recurso para potenciar la motivación e implicación de los discentes, pero también puede ser utilizada como medio para la creación narrativa. Así, se presenta una estrategia metodológica basada en el diseño de narraciones gamificadas para abordar simultáneamente varias competencias. El objetivo del presente estudio fue examinar las competencias narrativa, digital, creativa y didáctica durante el diseño de una narrativa gamificada. Se analizaron las posibles diferencias de género en estas competencias y en qué medida la competencia digital, creativa y didáctica pueden predecir la competencia narrativa. Se diseñó un instrumento (COMP-NDCDD) que permite evaluar los niveles de logro de las mencionadas competencias en los 176 estudiantes universitarios que participaron en el estudio. Los principales resultados revelan que los hombres obtuvieron puntuaciones más altas en las competencias narrativa y digital en comparación con las mujeres. Sin embargo, no se encontraron diferencias significativas en las competencias creativa y didáctica entre ambos géneros. De igual modo, se evidenció cómo la competencia digital presentó un peso destacado a la hora de predecir el nivel de logro de los estudiantes en cuanto a la competencia narrativa.
La autoficción en la práctica. Un estudio de recepción empírica
Authors: Ceballos-Viro Álvaro , Vanden-Berghe Kristine
Published: June 2024

¿Hasta qué punto es objeto de consenso el carácter literario o factual de los textos? Para responder a esta pregunta hemos estudiado la recepción en Goodreads de seis autoficciones hispanoamericanas recientes, asignando a cada comentario de los lectores un índice de literariedad. Nuestros resultados sugieren que la autoficción, como prisma de lectura, es infrecuente: los promedios más intermedios (las posiciones estadísticamente más autoficticias) presentan, al mismo tiempo, la mayor desviación estándar. Lo que hace la mayoría de los lectores es escoger entre una lectura fundamentalmente factual o una lectura fundamentalmente literaria.
Influencia del uso de las TIC en el desarrollo de la comprensión lectora en Educación Primaria
Authors: Campos Iris-Orosia , Rivera-Alegre Paula
Published: June 2024

En un contexto de uso creciente de las Tecnologías de la Información y la Comunicación (TIC) durante la infancia, investigaciones recientes han abierto un debate respecto al posible impacto nocivo de una sobreexposición no mediada a estas herramientas en el desarrollo de la competencia lectora. Ante este panorama, y habida cuenta de la relevancia de la familia como contexto de alfabetización, se desarrolló una investigación de tipo ex post facto con estudiantes de segundo y tercer ciclo de Educación Primaria (N= 410) enfocada a explorar el grado de mediación parental en la utilización de las TIC por parte del alumnado y a analizar el vínculo de esta variable con su nivel de comprensión lectora. Los resultados evidencian un uso de las TIC mayoritariamente lúdico y carencias en la mediación parental, con la existencia de un mayor número de situaciones riesgo conforme aumenta la edad. Además, se encuentra una asociación del índice de mediación parental en el uso de las TIC y el nivel de comprensión lectora entre el alumnado de sexto curso, fundamentalmente en los niveles inferencial y crítico, lo que corrobora el potencial impacto negativo de un uso abusivo y no mediado de las TIC sobre esta competencia.
Kilka uwag w sprawie pojęcia niewiary religijnej
Authors: Lechniak Marek
Published: June 2024

Celem artykułu jest ukazanie złożonego i w dotychczasowych dyskusjach rzadko analizowanego charakteru niewiary religijnej. Artykuł dotyczy pojęć wiary i niewiary religijnej w ujęciu Stanisława Judyckiego i św. Tomasza z Akwinu. Ukazano, że między ich poglądami zachodzi spora zbieżność, mimo odmiennych punktów wyjścia ich filozofowania. Omówiono cztery składniki wiary religijnej wyróżnione przez Judyckiego (przekonania o istnieniu Boga, postawę moralną polegającą na pragnieniu dobra, zaufanie do Boga i świadomość obecności Boga), a następnie pokazano złożony charakter niewiary religijnej, którą może determinować brak przynajmniej jednego ze składników wiary.