bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perspectivas sobre tamizaje molecular en pediatría
Authors: De La Rosa Poueriet Katlin Annyana
Published: December 2024

Hoy en día, a medida que el campo de la genética molecular sigue evolucionando rápidamente, existe una brecha cada vez mayor de nuevas herramientas tecnológicas disponibles para el estudio molecular de las enfermedades genéticas, lo que permite el diagnóstico de precisión en un gran número de pacientes en estado crítico, así como en pacientes aún asintomáticos [1-3].Estas enfermedades son silenciosas, incapacitantes y difíciles de manejar; se convierten en un reto diario que requiere intervención multidisciplinaria por especialistas, los que suelen escasear en áreas de difícil acceso, ya que se encuentran en hospitales de tercer y cuarto nivel. Esto es especialmente cierto en nuestros países Latinoamericanos donde observamos centralización de servicios especializados en las capitales [4,5].
Actualmente no tenemos estadísticas precisas en nuestra región de estas enfermedades, pero está claro que el impacto es cada vez mayor. Hoy en día no damos a vasto en la consulta, antes sólo nos quedabamos con un diagnóstico de impresión. Con el importante despegue de la genómica, el mundo ha cambiado y el diagnóstico preciso en el momento adecuado es el que modifica el manejo y mejora el pronóstico de los pacientes.
Perspectiva de la Medicina Fetal en la era de la genómica prenatal
Authors: Herrera Tania T.
Published: December 2024

En las últimas décadas, la medicina prenatal ha incorporado progresivamente diferentes tecnologías de diagnóstico que han logrado complementar los métodos existentes.  Técnicas citogenéticas tales como el cariotipo han sido complementadas con novedosas técnicas moleculares de alta resolución, permitiendo así identificar cambios genómicos con resolución de nucleótidos individuales. Alguna de estas técnicas incorporada a la evaluación de casos prenatales son el QF-PCR, la hibridación genómica comparativa (arreglo CGH), diferentes métodos de secuenciación masiva paralela, entre otras. 
 
Actualmente estas tecnologías moleculares para el diagnóstico prenatal estan siendo implementadas en nuestra región desde en la última década. Todo proceso de implementación trae consigo ventajas y retos intrínsecos de cada tecnología, y el equipo multidisciplinario debe manejar con claridad las indicaciones de su uso y las implicaciones posterior a la generación de resultados.  En este trabajo presentamos algunas de las consideraciones por parte del Colegio Americano de Medicina Genética y Genómica y la Sociedad Internacional de Diagnóstico Prenatal en cuanto a las indicaciones de estas pruebas moleculares y la consejería post-prueba. Esto permitirá al personal de salud involucrado en las mismas su implementación eficaz, y la obtención de un mayor beneficio para el paciente.
Frecuencia de variantes genéticas asociadas a epilepsia en pacientes pediátricos
Authors: Bigay Mercedes Bary
Published: December 2024

Introducción: La epilepsia en pacientes pediátricos es una condición relativamente frecuente en nuestra población, la cual puede tener origen genético. En este estudio, se determinó la frecuencia de las variantes genéticas asociadas a epilepsia en pacientes del servicio de genética médica del Hospital Pediátrico Dr. Hugo Mendoza en el periodo agosto 2018 - agosto 2021. Resultados: En una muestra de 154 pacientes, un total de 107 casos se identificaron las variantes más frecuentes asociadas a epilepsia y fueron caracterizadas de acuerdo con la edad, el sexo, el patrón de herencia y la cigosidad. También se identificaron las patologías asociadas a cada variante de los participantes en el estudio. Conclusión: La edad más frecuente en la cual se encontró una variante genética fue de 3 años. Se identificó que el sexo femenino, es el más frecuente, y el patrón de herencia autosómico dominante presentó el mayor número de casos, seguido por el patrón autosómico recesivo, y por último los patrones ligados al X; dominante y recesivo.
La hemofilia y valoración de la calidad de vida del paciente en Latinoamérica
Authors: De La Cruz Anthony , Mantilla María José , Mora Dítmar , Sánchez Humberto
Published: December 2024

La hemofilia es una enfermedad de la coagulación, generalmente hereditaria, en donde la cascada de coagulación del paciente tiene un compromiso variable, ya sea por mutaciones en las proteínas de dicha cascada, o por la presencia de anticuerpos que afectan el proceso de coagulación. Su severidad depende de la proteína alterada, y en los casos más severos pueden desencadenar eventos hemorrágicos que ponen en riesgo su vida. Se han descrito 3 tipos de hemofilia (A, B, C), y su clasificación depende de la proteína específica afectada o mutada en el paciente. En esta revisión de la literatura de nuestra región, estaremos revisando la fisiopatología de esta enfermedad, su efecto en la calidad de vida de los pacientes, y las herramientas disponibles para su valoración.
Nuevos horizontes en genómica para Latinoamérica
Authors: Mendez-Rios Jorge D.
Published: December 2024

Latinoamérica está viviendo un cambio en tecnología y sanidad. La implementación de nuevas tecnologías debe ir de la mano de la educación para comprender mejor los desafíos que se avecinan y encontrar soluciones. En este editorial, destacamos la importancia de compartir el conocimiento para el avance de la sociedad, especialmente en los campos de la genética y la genómica. Existen importantes logros y desafíos en la implementación del diagnóstico molecular en América Latina, tales como el control de calidad, los dilemas éticos y el análisis costo-beneficio. Por esta razón, lanzamos esta nueva revista que pretende crear una plataforma para que los profesionales de la salud fortalezcan sus conocimientos y habilidades en genética clínica y genómica. El editor hace hincapié en el valor del conocimiento colectivo y la colaboración en beneficio de los pacientes y del desarrollo profesional.
ARN Implicados En La Síntesis De Proteínas: Fundamentos Y Aplicaciones Actuales
Authors: Saldaña Bethancourth Oleg , Mendez-Rios Jorge David
Published: December 2024

Este trabajo se centra en la diversidad de funciones y tipos de ARN, una molécula crucial en la biología celular y genética. Los ARN se dividen en varias categorías según su función y estructura. El ARN mensajero (ARNm) actúa como intermediario en la síntesis de proteínas, copiando información genética del ADN y llevándola a los ribosomas. Los ARN ribosomales (ARNr) forman parte de los ribosomas y son esenciales para la síntesis proteica. Los ARN de transferencia (ARNt) transportan aminoácidos para la síntesis de proteínas. Además de estos, existen ARN con actividad catalítica llamados ribozimas, que participan en diversas reacciones químicas, como el corte y empalme de ARN. Los ARN reguladores, como los microARN y los ARN interferentes, modulan la expresión génica y tienen aplicaciones en la investigación y la terapia genética. Los ARN antisentido inhiben genes específicos, y los ARN no codificantes de cadena larga están relacionados con procesos biológicos como la impronta genética y la regulación génica en eucariotas.
Dentro de los últimos puntos se desea resaltar la importancia de los ARN en la biología y su implicación en enfermedades, como el cáncer. También se mencionan las posibles aplicaciones terapéuticas de algunos ARN, como el uso de ARN de interferencia para tratar enfermedades virales.
Reporte de un caso severo del Síndrome de Allan-Herndon-Dudley
Authors: De La Rosa Poueriet Katlin Annyana
Published: December 2024

El Síndrome de Allan-Herndon-Dudley (SAHD) es un trastorno neuromuscular ligado al cromosoma X, caracterizado por retraso psicomotor, discapacidad intelectual, hipotonía muscular, dificultades para la alimentación y síntomas neurológicos en varones.1 El diagnóstico se realiza principalmente a través de pruebas genéticas moleculares donde se establece un probando con los hallazgos clínicos relevantes y una variante patogénica en hemicigosis en el gen SLC16A2. Describiremos el caso de un niño de 3 años de edad que fue referido inicialmente al servicio de genética médica para descartar trisomía 21, con retraso global del neurodesarrollo significativo, hipotonía severa, infecciones respiratorias recurrentes, pobre ganancia de peso, reducción de la masa muscular, convulsiones, disfagia, constipación crónica, entre otros. Implicando un manejo desafiante debido a la complejidad de los síntomas. En la madre se identificó la variante patogénica heterocigota en el gen SLC16A2, clínicamente no afectada.
Avances y Perspectivas de las Patologías Genéticas en el siglo XXI
Authors: Rodríguez Ocampo Paula Andrea , Luna Salazar David , Saavedra Pérez Karen Dayana , Flórez Daniela Lynett , Celis Regalado Luis Gustavo
Published: December 2024

Introducción: El descubrimiento del ácido desoxirribonucleico en 1953 marca la diferencia entre la genética clásica que se basaba en la observación clínica para realizar diagnósticos y realizar modificaciones genómicas de forma empírica, lo que desencadenó una serie de aberraciones genéticas que comprometen la dignidad del ser humano y la nueva genética, una era que permitió comprender el punto de partida en los mecanismos de regulación y expresión génica y su papel a la hora de codificar el ADN lo que ha permitido el estudio de enfermedades de origen genético o hereditario y dar un tratamiento orientado. La nueva genética trae consigo novedosas herramientas para objetivar las alteraciones que se presentan ya sea a nivel de los genes, los cromosomas o trastornos multifactoriales y poder realizar su identificación y clasificación de forma pertinente, simplificando la comprensión de estas patologías.
Objetivo: Este artículo tiene como objetivo mantener a la comunidad científica actualizada sobre las distintas patologías genéticas y su clasificación teniendo en cuenta la nomenclatura y puntos clave de cada una. Metodología: Se realizó una revisión de artículos científicos en bases de datos como Pubmed, Web of Science, Dynamed y Uptodate, con términos de búsqueda para inteligencia artificial en medicina, investigación clínica, marco legal, principios bioéticos, análisis automatizado, entre otros. No se aplicaron restricciones de idioma. Se utilizaron encabezados de temas médicos (MeSH). Adicionalmente se realizaron búsquedas manuales en listas de referencias, artículos de revisión y literatura gris en busca de artículos relevantes no capturados en la exploración electrónica. Conclusión: La genética humana y sus patologías son de interés constante, ya que mediante su conocimiento se explican diferentes variantes del ADN del proceso de codificación y replicación, conocer las últimas definiciones que abarcan el tema es de gran importancia para su comprensión.
Detección de una variante genética del Síndrome de Apert
Authors: Lynett Daniela , Lubo López María Paola , Rojas Arbelaez Laura Andrea , Rodríguez Ocampo Paula Andrea , Ramirez Lev Bladimir , Jimenez Daniel , Celis Regalado Luis Gustavo , Fonque Ojeda Nathalia , García Montoya Gabriela
Published: December 2024

Introducción: El síndrome de Apert (SA), o acrocefalosindactilia tipo I, es un trastorno congénito autosómico dominante causado por una mutación en el gen FGFR2, esencial durante el desarrollo embrionario. Se caracteriza por craneosinostosis, hipoplasia del tercio medio facial y sindactilia. Aunque es poco frecuente, su incidencia es de 1/100,000 a 1/160,000 nacidos vivos, con una prevalencia de 1 a 9 casos por cada 100,000 personas. El diagnóstico prenatal es complejo debido a su similitud con otros síndromes congénitos. Objetivo: Este artículo analiza la caracterización genética y molecular de una paciente diagnosticada con Síndrome de Apert.  Metodología: Se obtuvo consentimiento informado y se realizó la historia clínica y examen físico. Se recolectaron muestras de sangre para exámenes paraclínicos y moleculares, así como estudios de imagen. Resultados: Los resultados mostraron características fenotípicas compatibles con el síndrome, como estrabismo, proptosis y craneosinostosis tipo plagiocefalia anterior. Los estudios genéticos detectaron una variante patogénica en el gen FGFR2 (c.755C>G) y una variante de significado incierto (c.532C>T). Discusión: La mutación FGFR2 (c.755C>G) es una de las más frecuentes en el SA y se sugiere que afecta la especificidad del receptor, conduciendo a la supresión de la apoptosis de osteoblastos, resultando en las características fenotípicas del síndrome.  Conclusión: Aunque la variante de significado incierto (c.532C>T) presenta características deletéreas, no se han reportado otros casos con esta variante. Actualmente, la paciente no ha presentado deterioro adicional y el pronóstico sigue siendo incierto. Se considera necesario ampliar los estudios moleculares para investigar esta nueva variante y sus implicaciones clínicas.
JWST Validates HST Distance Measurements: Selection of Supernova Subsample Explains Differences in JWST Estimates of Local H
0
Authors: Riess Adam G. , Scolnic Dan , Anand Gagandeep S. , Breuval Louise , Casertano Stefano , Macri Lucas M. , Li Siyang , Yuan Wenlong , Huang Caroline D. , Jha Saurabh , Murakami Yukei S. , Beaton Rachael , Brout Dillon , Wu Tianrui , Addison Graeme E. , Bennett Charles , Anderson Richard I. , Filippenko Alexei V. , Carr Anthony
Published: December 2024

We cross-check the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) Cepheid/Type Ia supernova (SN Ia) distance ladder, which yields the most precise local H
0, against early James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) subsamples (∼1/4 of the HST sample) from SH0ES and CCHP, calibrated only with NGC 4258. We find HST Cepheid distances agree well (∼1σ) with all combinations of methods, samples, and telescopes. The comparisons explicitly include the measurement uncertainty of each method in NGC 4258, an oft-neglected but dominant term. Mean differences are ∼0.03 mag, far smaller than the 0.18 mag “Hubble tension.” Combining all measures produces the strongest constraint yet on the linearity of HST Cepheid distances, 0.994 ±0.010, ruling out distance-dependent bias or offset as the source of the tension at ∼7σ. However, current JWST subsamples produce large sampling differences in H0 whose size and direction we can directly estimate from the full HST set. We show that ΔH
0 ∼ 2.5 km s−1 Mpc−1 between the CCHP JWST program and the full HST sample is entirely consistent with differences in sample selection. We combine all JWST samples into a new distance-limited set of 16 SNe Ia at D ≤ 25 Mpc. Using JWST Cepheids, JAGB, and tip of the red giant branch, we find 73.4 ± 2.1, 72.2 ± 2.2, and 72.1 ± 2.2 km s−1 Mpc−1, respectively. Explicitly accounting for common supernovae, the three-method JWST result is H
0 = 72.6 ± 2.0, similar to H
0 = 72.8 expected from HST Cepheids in the same galaxies. The small JWST sample trivially lowers the Hubble tension significance due to small-sample statistics and is not yet competitive with the HST set (42 SNe Ia and 4 anchors), which yields 73.2 ± 0.9. Still, the joint JWST sample provides important cross-checks that the HST data pass.
Complete mitochondrial genome of Lepidocephalichthys berdmorei and its phylogenetic status within the family Cobitidae (Cypriniformes)
Authors: Zhou Min , Wang Cheng , Xu Ziyue , Peng Zhicun , He Yang , Wang Ying
Published: December 2024

In this study, the complete mitochondrial genome of Lepidocephalichthys berdmorei was first determined by the primer walking sequence method. The complete mitochondrial genome was 16,574 bp in length, including 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, two ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, and a control region (D-loop). The gene arrangement pattern was identical to that of other teleosts. The overall base composition was 29.9% A, 28.5% T, 25.5% C, and 16.1% G, with an A+T bias of 58.4%. Furthermore, phylogenetic analyses were conducted based on 13 PCGs from the mitochondrial genomes of 18 cobitid species using with three different methods (Neighbor-joining, Maximum likelihood, and Bayesian inference). All methods consistently showed that the four species of the genus Lepidocephalichthys form a monophyletic group. This study would provide effective molecular information for the Lepidocephalichthys species as well as novel genetic marker for the study of species identification.
Effects of Ocular Residual Astigmatism on Refractive Outcomes for Myopia Correction After Keratorefractive Lenticule Extraction Surgery
Authors: Su Qing , Liang Shuang , Cao Huazheng , Shan Mengyuan , Wang Yan
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the effects of ocular residual astigmatism (ORA) on refractive outcomes for patients with astigmatism after keratorefractive lenticule extraction (KLEx) and to identify the ratio of the ORA/manifest refractive cylinder at the corneal plane (MRC) resulting in a greater index of success (IOS).

Methods

In total, 892 right eyes that underwent KLEx surgery were included. Astigmatic changes were evaluated using Alpins' vector analysis. Surgical outcomes grouped by ORA/MRC and ORA were compared. In stage 1, eyes were divided into two groups with an ORA/MRC cutoff value of 1. In stage 2, patients with an ORA/MRC ratio of greater than 1 were divided into two groups: those with an ORA of 1.25 diopters (D) or greater and those with an ORA of less than 0.50 D. ORA/MRC thresholds leading to a high IOS were analyzed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.

Results

In stage 1, the mean IOS was 0.13 and 0.21 for the low and high ORA/MRC groups, respectively (
P
< .001). In stage 2, for high ORA/MRC, the IOS was significantly greater when the ORA was greater than 1.25 D than when the ORA was less than 0.50 D (0.27 versus 0.13,
P
< .001). ROC curves revealed that participants with an ORA/MRC ratio of greater than 1.8 were more likely to have a higher IOS (
P
< .001).

Conclusions

Patients with a smaller ORA can obtain better correction results. An ORA/MRC ratio of greater than 1.8 may increase the risk of poor astigmatism correction with KLEx. The application of vector planning may improve the refractive outcomes of KLEx.

[
J Refract Surg
. 2024;40(12):e966–e973.]
Advocacy for Children: A Pediatrician's Core Professionalism Responsibility
Authors: Misra Sanghamitra M. , McGee Lindy U.
Published: December 2024

Pediatric advocacy is an effort to champion the well-being of children and adolescents, ensuring access to quality health care and addressing socioeconomic issues linked to adverse health. This article explores pediatricians' responsibilities in advocating for their patients within the health care system and in broader societal contexts. Models of physician advocacy and the concept of advocacy as a fundamental professionalism responsibility, grounded in ethical principles and societal obligations, are introduced. As providers for patients who lack the capacity to advocate for themselves, the unique role of the pediatrician is examined. The improving landscape of advocacy education in undergraduate and graduate medical training programs is presented, and the concept that engaging in advocacy can help physicians battle burnout is raised. Barriers to advocacy for pediatricians are addressed. Pediatricians should leverage their expertise and influence to advance the health and rights of patients and their families.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2024;53(12):e452–e457.]
A novel quantile regression for fractiles based on unit logistic exponential distribution
Authors: Ahmad Hanan Haj , Elnagar Kariema A.
Published: December 2024

Continuous developments in unit interval distributions have shown effectiveness in modeling proportional data. However, challenges persist in diverse dispersion characteristics in real-world scenarios. This study introduces the unit logistic-exponential (ULE) distribution, a flexible probability model built upon the logistic-exponential distribution and designed for data confined to the unit interval. The statistical properties of the ULE distribution were studied, and parameter estimation through maximum likelihood estimation, Bayesian methods, maximum product spacings, and least squares estimates were conducted. A thorough simulation analysis using numerical techniques such as the quasi-Newton method and Markov chain Monte Carlo highlights the performance of the estimation methods, emphasizing their accuracy and reliability. The study reveals that the ULE distribution, paired with tools like randomized quantile and Cox-Snell residuals, provides robust assessments of goodness of fit, making it well-suited for real-world applications. Key findings demonstrate that the unit logistic-exponential distribution captures diverse data patterns effectively and improves reliability assessment in practical contexts. When applied to two real-world datasets—one from the medical field and the other from the economic sector—the ULE distribution consistently outperforms existing unit interval models, showcasing lower error rates and enhanced flexibility in tail behavior. These results underline the distribution's potential impact in areas requiring precise proportions modeling, ultimately supporting better decision-making and predictive analyses.
Eddington philosophe
Authors: Laguens Florian
Published: December 2024

Unanimement considéré comme l'astronome le plus influent de l'entre-deux-guerres, Arthur S. Eddington (1882-1944) participa aux premières confirmations expérimentales de la théorie de la relativité d'Einstein. On sait moins que son rôle fut décisif pour l’émergence des premiers modèles d’univers en expansion, à l’origine de la théorie du Big Bang. Acteur et témoin des principales révolutions scientifiques du XXe siècle que furent la théorie de la relativité et la mécanique quantique, Arthur Eddington a aussi investi le champ épistémologique par plusieurs ouvrages majeurs, et fut un philosophe de la physique parmi les plus lus de son temps.Explorant l’intégralité des œuvres du physicien ainsi que de nombreux documents inédits, Florian Laguens dresse à travers cette étude un portrait riche et précis de la philosophie d’Eddington. Se déploie peu à peu une conception stimulante de la nature et de la portée de la science physique, parfois déroutante mais non sans cohérence, à condition de la reconduire à ses intuitions originaires. Au fil du texte se noue un dialogue à trois niveaux : d’abord entre les œuvres mêmes d’Eddington, de sorte à manifester les grandes phases de sa réflexion sur la signification du monde physique. Ensuite, entre les composantes de la vie d’Eddington, à la fois scientifique, philosophique et religieuse. Finalement, avec trois inspirateurs : Bertrand Russell, Emmanuel Kant et René Descartes.Eddington révèle ainsi la profondeur de ses intuitions, l’originalité de sa démarche et l’actualité de sa pensée.Préface de Michel Bitbol
Olivier Messiaen, de nuits et d’étoiles
Authors: Tchamkerten Jacques
Published: December 2024

Lumière, couleur, oiseaux: Messiaen est par essence un musicien diurne, que son intense foi chrétienne porte vers l’éblouissement de la Présence révélée. Il en va comme si le musicien associait, dans un tout, nuit et mort comme des «no man’s land» temporels qui n’existent que par ce qui leur succédera, pour aboutir à la Résurrection. Celle-ci est, pour Messiaen, une réalité qui, s’ouvrant sur l’éternité, abolit le temps dans une éternelle lumière dont sa musique, dialogue entre le son et la couleur, entre le temps et l’espace, est l’image prémonitoire.
Extinction des feux! La question de l’éclairage de la salle de concert
Authors: Eliseev Céline
Published: December 2024

Cet article explore les relations entre nuit et musique au travers de la question de l’éclairage des salles de concert. On comprend l’intérêt de l’obscurité au théâtre lorsque seule la scène reste éclairée, mais qu’en est-il lorsqu’il n’y a rien d’autre à regarder que l’orchestre qui joue? Pour retracer quelques-uns des enjeux de cette nuit artificielle des salles de concert, on s’intéresse aux échos dont a joui cette problématique dans la presse francophone, du XIXe siècle à nos jours.
Challenges and Opportunities of Transnational Education Programs
Authors: Suntharalingam Panchalingam
Published: December 2024

Transnational Education (TNE) provides several opportunities, including increased educational access, international alliances, institutional reputation, and economic development in partner nations. TNE faces other hurdles, including quality assurance, regulatory compliance, cultural differences, infrastructural requirements, and student support. Case studies from UK universities and other institutions demonstrate effective partnerships that demonstrate the importance of strategic alliances, infrastructural investments, and extensive support services. Lessons learned highlight the importance of strong quality assurance systems, local context adaptability, strategic alliances, infrastructure investment, and better student assistance. TNE can have a substantial impact on global education, economic development, and cultural exchange if the challenges and opportunities in this chapter are resolved intelligently and deliberately.
Currere as an Approach to Exploring Risk-Rewards Considerations in Facilitating Short-Term Study Abroad Programs
Authors: Collins Paul
Published: December 2024

This manuscript uses the four phases (regressive, progressive, analytic, and synthetic) of currere's theoretical methodology to examine specific insights analyzing aspects of the short-term study abroad experience (STSA). Researcher insights stem from interest as an undergraduate, participation as a graduate student, and a STSA faculty shadowing experience. What has been learned as an undergraduate and participation in an STSA program as a graduate student is used to situate the regressive phase. The progressive phase examines possible future implications of STSA lessons learned in the regressive phase. Here the study's findings (desire, access to others with experience, and funding support) are discussed. In the analytic phase, the regressive and progressive phases are used to explore risks and rewards associated with transitioning from interest/desire to actually navigating the process leading to STSA participation. In the synthetic phase, the lessons learned are discussed for a synthesis of currere's analytical process.
The Intersection of Internationalization and Sustainable Development Goals in Higher Education
Authors: Dantic Marshall James Pampuan
Published: December 2024

This chapter explores the relationship between internationalization and the Sustainable Development Goals in higher education, emphasizing their synergistic potential to address global challenges. It examines how strategic international partnerships, collaborative research initiatives, and knowledge exchange programs can contribute to achieving the SDGs. The chapter highlights successful examples of international collaboration in areas such as climate change mitigation, public health advancement, and sustainable technology development. However, it also acknowledges the challenges in aligning internationalization efforts with the SDGs, including policy and funding constraints, institutional resistance, and difficulties in measuring impact. By analyzing these challenges, the chapter provides insights into fostering a more sustainable and inclusive future for higher education. It calls upon higher education institutions, policymakers, and stakeholders to embrace a holistic approach to internationalization, integrating the SDGs into their core missions and fostering a global community
Internationalisation of Higher Education and Its Political Dynamics
Authors: Shohel M. Mahruf C. , Sall Wendy , Ashrafuzzaman Md. , Babu Rasel , Siddik Mohammad Abu Bakar , Tasnim Nazia , Akter Tahmina
Published: December 2024

To thrive in multicultural workplace settings, it is essential to understand how individuals from different cultural backgrounds communicate and share meaning. Higher education institutions (HEIs), through international academic collaborations, are uniquely positioned to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of addressing contemporary global challenges. Beyond fostering cultural awareness, a critical and analytical approach has become integral to modern higher education, ensuring a rigorous and versatile learning environment that promotes respect for diverse needs and rights. This chapter provides a critical analysis of the factors shaping the internationalisation of higher education within the Global North and South. It examines current trends in curriculum internationalisation and suggests strategies to enhance global competence among graduates. In an era defined by open science and advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), issues of equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) have taken centre stage in education. This chapter proposes a Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework to address these challenges and demonstrate how socio-cultural and geopolitical perspectives can be harnessed to promote internationalisation within higher education curricula. The chapter concludes by emphasising the need for HEIs to prioritise internationalisation and incorporate global learning strategies to meet the demands of the 21st century and the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).
Internationalization as Practice
Authors: de Siqueira Isabel Rocha , da Silva Lau Nycolas Candido
Published: December 2024

Internationalizing the university is generally a desirable goal of academic institutions. At the same time, it is often unclear what scholars mean when declaring that higher education is becoming international. This conceptual uncertainty does not impede funding institutes and university departments from relying on measures to capture students' experiences abroad. This chapter explores the impacts of such measures on an understanding of internationalization that goes beyond conceptual unclearness. A director of the institution in question and a PhD candidate, we turn our look to the internationalization efforts being made by the International Relations Institute of the Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro (IRI/PUC-Rio). IRI is the highest-ranked department of its area in Brazil and has a long tradition of successful internationalization. Based at IRI and looking at the global South context, we look at the ways the international historical inequalities between the global North and the global South are reinforced and reinvented by concrete modes of internationalization.
Different Portfolio on Investment
Authors: Ntabanganyimana Junior , Dar Amir Ahmad , Nain Mohit , Ahmad Mudassir
Published: December 2024

To understand the best strategy for the investment for the maximum return, one should accurately make a portfolio for the investment. It is a critical challenge to different investors to find the best path for investment. In this study, nine different companies are selected and the data collected from www.yahoo.finance. The 9 companies are divided into 3 categories such as high risk, moderate and low risk. The stock price on day one was recorded and on 30th day, the authors also recorded the close price of the stocks. Now, on the basis of the return of different companies, the authors will draw a conclusion regarding the investment strategy and will make the best strategy based on 9 companies for the maximum return. Now, the analysis part will provide a good portfolio from future investment. Finally, the statistical tool will be used to check whether there is any significant difference between the portfolio or not.
Structural, Morphological and Optical Investigations of Pure and Iron Doped Manganese Sulfide Thin Film by Chemical Bath Deposition
Authors: Abbas Hafiz Wajid , Shafique Muhammad , Akhtar Muhammad Saeed
Published: December 2024

Thin films of pure and iron doped MnS, have been deposited on glass substrates using a straightforward and cost-effective technique named Chemical Bath Deposition (CBD). The temperature of the heating water bath was maintained at 90°C for three hours of deposition. Deposition is done by varying the doping concentration of Fe from 0 to 10%. Manganese chloride, iron chloride tetrahydrate, urea, and thioacetamide were the precursors employed in this work. The X-ray diffraction method was used to ascertain the thin film's structural properties. Using the Scherrer formula, the average crystallite size for an undoped MnS thin film was observed to be 30.28 nm and is decreased to 24.02 nm for 4% of Fe doping. For an undoped MnS thin film, the values of dislocation density and material strain were 1.09× 10−3()−2 and 3.418× 10−3, respectively. These values were increased to 1.73× 10−3()−2 and 4.65× 10−3, respectively due to decrement in the crystallite size. Grain size and morphology were examined using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Micrographs of samples were obtained at different magnifications and their values were noted as 0.9 μm for pure and 4.69 μm for 4% Fe doped thin films. Optical properties were determined using DRS method. The energy band gap was found as 2.21 eV for pure samples and it was decreased to 2.14, 2.09, 1.98, 1.96 and 1.93 eV for 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10% iron doping, respectively. Solar cells, solar selective coatings, sensors, optical mass memory, and anti-reflection coatings have all made substantial use of MnS thin films.
Comparative analysis of stress hormones in long-term meditators and non-meditators
Authors: Warawita Dilanthi , Thambyrajah James , Handunnetti Shiroma , Dissanayake Dilshani
Published: December 2024

Background: Meditation, rooted in ancient traditions, has gained prominence as a tool for managing stress in modern health and wellness. This study aims on the impact of long-term Vipassana meditation on the regulation of stress hormones, including cortisol, adrenaline, growth hormone, and glucagon, to explore its physiological benefits.Methods: This comparative cross-sectional study involved 30 long-term Vipassana meditators and 30 age-, gender-, and education-matched non-meditator controls. Blood samples were analyzed for cortisol, adrenaline, growth hormone, and glucagon using ELISA. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS, with t-tests for parametric and Mann-Whitney U tests for non-parametric data.Results: Meditators exhibited significantly lower cortisol (126.4 ± 16.37 ng/ml) and adrenaline (35.9 ± 12.09 pg/ml) levels compared to controls (cortisol: 150.5 ± 18.62 ng/ml; adrenaline: 43.6 ± 14.98 pg/ml, p < 0.05). Growth hormone levels were higher in meditators (median: 6.7 ng/ml) compared to controls (median: 3.35 ng/ml), though not statistically significant (p > 0.05). In contrast, glucagon levels were slightly lower in meditators (median: 94.6 pg/ml) than in controls (median: 103.4 pg/ml), without reaching statistical significance (p > 0.05).Conclusion: Long-term Vipassana meditation is associated with reduced levels of stress hormones, particularly cortisol and adrenaline, highlighting its potential as an effective stress management tool. The non-significant differences in growth hormone and glucagon suggest that meditation’s endocrine effects may primarily target stress pathways. Future research is needed to explore these mechanisms further and assess broader endocrine implications.
Are long-term meditators more psychologically resilient, more mindful, less psychologically distressed and have enhanced perceived quality of life? A comparative preliminary analysis from Sri Lanka
Authors: Outschoorn Omella , Herath Jeevani , Amarasuriya Santushi
Published: December 2024

Background: Meditation practices are currently being incorporated in psychotherapeutic interventions to address globally increasing rates of psychopathology. Meditation has been a common practice in Sri Lanka since early times. However, the integration of meditation as practiced in a Sri Lankan context, into psychotherapeutic interventions require rigorous empirical exploration. Objectives: The primary objective of this preliminary study was to explore the differences between meditators and non-meditators in terms of several psychological parameters. This study aimed to understand patterns, trends, and relationships in psychological variables such as mindfulness, psychological resilience, perceived quality of life, and psychological distress (namely, depression, anxiety, and stress)Methods: This study involved 15 long-term meditators (with a practice of 5-25 hours per week and 3.5-25 years of experience) from Sri Lankan meditation centers headed by Buddhist monks/nuns, and a matched control group of 15 non-meditating participants from a Sri Lankan community sample. Participants were matched for their age, gender and education. Self-reported levels of mindfulness, psychological resilience, perceived quality of life, and psychological distress were assessed using culturally adopted and validates psychometric measures.Results: The long-term meditators showed significantly higher scores on three dimensions of mindfulness (observing, non-reactivity, and acting with awareness) and total mindfulness, as well as higher psychological resilience and perceived psychological and environmental quality of life. Furthermore, the meditators reported significantly low levels of depression compared to their non-meditating controls.Conclusion: These findings suggest that a meditation-based lifestyle in a Sri Lankan context may be characteristic of higher levels of mindfulness, psychological resilience, and quality of life, as well as lower levels of depression, when compared to individuals who do not engage in regular meditation. The results provide direction for further empirical investigation and potential integration of meditation practices into psychotherapeutic interventions.
The effectiveness of the family-centered empowerment model towards the quality of life of older adults with hypertension
Authors: Luthfa Iskim , Yusuf Ah , Fitryasari Rizki , Khasanah Nopi Nur
Published: December 2024

Older adults with hypertension often experience a low quality of life. Family support plays a critical role in maintaining and improving their well-being. This study aimed to analyze the effectiveness of a family-centered empowerment model on the quality of life of hypertensive patients. This quasi-experimental study included 70 participants with hypertension, who were divided into an intervention group and a control group. Participants were selected through a consecutive sampling technique. The study utilized the Family Empowerment Instrument and the European Quality of Life questionnaire (EQ-5D-5L) for data collection. The data analysis was performed using Levene's, Wilcoxon Signed Rank, and Mann-Whitney U tests. There were no significant differences in the participants’ characteristics between the control and intervention groups (Levene's test p-value >0.05). After the family-centered empowerment intervention, the quality of life in the intervention group was significantly higher than that of the control group (Mann-Whitney U test p-value=0.000 < 0.05). This suggests that nurses can effectively involve patients with chronic diseases, particularly hypertension, and their families in the treatment process to enhance their quality of life.
[Recent reproductive evidence of collared flycatcher (Ficedula albicollis) in two lowland areas of northeastern Italy]
Authors: Nardotto Alessandro , Luchetta Alvise , Panzarin Lucio Ferruccio , Pastres Maia , Taiariol Pier Luigi
Published: December 2024

This note reports some recent observations of collared flycatchers in the reproductive period in two lowland areas of northeastern Italy. These are observations of males in June at a site in the Pordenone plain (PN) and of a female with a brood patch ringed in a site in the Venetian plain (VE). The observations are interesting, above all, for the altitude that characterizes the two sites (20 m.a.s.l. and 1 m.a.s.l.), as the species is typically linked to forests in hilly and mountainous environments.
[Article in Italian]
Atlante degli uccelli nidificanti e svernanti in Toscana. 2 Distribuzione, abbondanza e conservazione
Authors: Ferlini Flavio
Published: December 2024

A 26 anni dalla pubblicazione del primo atlante dedicato agli uccelli nidificanti e svernanti in Toscana, il Centro Ornitologico Toscano ha portato a compimento un secondo progetto di uguale natura... [Book review in Italian]
Examining the unidimensionality of the PHQ-9 with first responders: Evidence from different psychometric paradigms
Authors: Pretorius Tyrone B. , Padmanabhanunni Anita
Published: December 2024

The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) is an effective tool for identifying depressive disorders in diverse populations, making it a valuable resource in both clinical practice and research. However, the factor structure and dimensionality of the instrument have been contested. Studies have raised questions about whether the PHQ-9 adequately captures a single underlying construct or reflects multiple distinct dimensions of depression. This study examines the factor structure of the PHQ-9 among South African first responders using exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) with ancillary bifactor indices, parallel analysis and Mokken analysis. A cross-sectional study design was used with data collected from police officers (n = 309) and paramedics (n =120). Although the EFA identified a two-factor structure, this was not supported by the other analyses. While the one-factor, correlated two-factor and bifactor models of the PHQ-9 had comparable fit indices, the one-factor model appeared to be marginally superior in the CFA. Ancillary bifactor and parallel analysis also did not support the interpretation of the PHQ-9 as multidimensional. Lastly, Mokken scale analysis confirmed that the PHQ-9 is a strong and reliable unidimensional scale of depression. These findings suggest that the PHQ-9 predominantly measures a single construct of depression, consistent with the unidimensional view of the disorder.Contribution: The present study provides evidence from different measurement perspectives that the commonly used PHQ-9 measures a single construct of depression and not two separate components as some studies suggested. In practice, this simplifies the interpretation of scores, allowing clinicians to assess overall depression severity without needing to differentiate between symptom types.
Influence of personality and psychological capital on managers’ trust in their direct–reports
Authors: Zaayman Christopher H. , Motala Tasneem
Published: December 2024

Purpose: This article investigates the influence of a manager’s psychological capital (Psycap) and Personality Traits, based on the Five Factor Model (FFM), on their Propensity to Trust their direct-reports. While most literature focuses on subordinates’ trust in managers, this study explores the reverse. It stems from the need to enhance organisational performance by improving trust between managers and subordinates.Design/methodology/approach: The study uses a quantitative approach with established scales: Nyhan and Marlowe’s Trust Measurement Scale, the TIPI Scale for personality, and the Psycap Questionnaire-12. Data were primarily collected from managers in South African manufacturing firms.Findings/results: Psycap was the strongest driver of trust, showing a significant positive link to managers’ trust in direct-reports. Agreeableness and Emotional Stability show significant positive relationships with trust, though at a lower confidence level, while Conscientiousness, Extraversion, and Openness do not show significant links.Practical implications: The findings highlight the need for targeted training to improve managers’ interpersonal, emotional regulation, and trust-building skills. Performance evaluations should consider trust-building behaviours and promotion policies could be refined based on the research findings, to ensure that candidates who are suitable for leading successful teams are placed in managerial positions.Originality/value: The study contributes nuanced insights by challenging traditional perspectives on Personality Traits and Trust, emphasising the vital role of Psycap in trust propensity. The study shows that investing in employee Psycap development is crucial. Employees with higher Psycap levels tend to trust their direct-reports more, which helps build a positive organisational culture that prioritises psychological well-being.
Comparative Analysis of Sleep Quality between Medical and Nonmedical Students at Gulu University, Uganda
Authors: Nakitto Brenda , Nansubuga Federes , Omondi Edward , Opedo Moses , Bongomin Felix
Published: December 2024

Background:

Adequate sleep is essential for overall health and well-being, and poor sleep quality significantly affects academic performance. In this study, we evaluated and compared the quality of sleep among medical and nonmedical students at Gulu University in Uganda.

Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional study recruiting undergraduate students of Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaires. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) were used to assess sleep quality and depression, respectively. PSQI score >5 defined poor sleep quality and PHQ-9 score ≥5 depression. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors of poor sleep quality. P <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

Of the 513 participants enrolled, 199 (38.8%) were female, with a median age of 23 (interquartile range: 22–25) years. Overall, 395 (77.0%) students had poor sleep quality (nonmedical students 317 [80.3%] vs. medical students 78 [19.8%], P = 0.023). The prevalence of symptoms of depression was 57.7% (n = 296) and was significantly higher among those with poor sleep quality compared to those with good sleep quality (259 [65.6%] vs. 37 [31.4%], P < 0.001). The odds of having poor sleep quality were over 4-fold higher among students with symptoms of depression than those without (adjusted odds ratio: 4.31, 95% confidence interval: 2.45–7.60, P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

The study findings reveal a high prevalence of poor sleep quality and depression among students at Gulu University. Routine screening of sleep quality and depressive symptoms is necessary to control and prevent their impact on the performance and well-being of university students.
Rural–Urban Differential in Health and Nutrition Day Implementation in Assam during Postpandemic Period
Authors: Mahanta Tulika Goswami , Nirmolia Nabanita , Biswas Abhijit Basu , Baruah Swarnali Devi
Published: December 2024

Background:

Health and Nutrition Day was conceptualized by the National Health Mission to address the accessibility and utilization of integrated RCH and immunization services by the community.

Subjects and Methods:

Cross-sectional comparative study conducted covering all districts of Assam using MOHFW supportive supervision formats.

Results:

Number of sites monitored (342 urban and 1970 rural) were 2312. Headcount survey data were not available (9.8% of rural vs. 9.1% urban). ANM did not record the vaccination status of previous sessions in 5.7% of rural versus 1.5% of urban sites. Logistic availability was better in urban sites. Some sessions (3.9%) had open vials without date and time mentioned (4.4% rural vs. 3.9% urban was statistically significant). Open vial beyond 28 days was found in 3.2% of rural versus 0.6% in urban areas and were statistically significant. Key message was delivered better in urban areas.

Conclusion:

Noticeable disparity in the implementation of health and nutrition day more in favor of urban areas. Proper microplanning, uninterrupted supply chain, and capacity building with a focus on rural sites need to be prioritized.
Uniform bounded elementary generation of Chevalley groups
Authors: Kunyavskiı̆ Boris , Plotkin Eugene , Vavilov Nikolai
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we establish a definitive result which almost completely closes the problem of bounded elementary generation for Chevalley groups of rank

$\ge 2$

over arbitrary Dedekind rings R of arithmetic type, with uniform bounds. Namely, we show that for every reduced irreducible root system

$\Phi $

of rank

$\ge 2$

, there exists a universal bound

$L=L(\Phi )$

such that the simply connected Chevalley groups

$G(\Phi ,R)$

have elementary width

$\le L$

for all Dedekind rings of arithmetic type R.