bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emerging Role of Gallium-68 DOTANOC PET/CT Guided Radiofrequency Ablation in the Treatment of Tumor-induced Osteomalacia
Authors: Sharma Jyoti , Kasliwal Rajeev , Jain Tarun , Sharma Gaurav Kant
Published: April 2024

Tumor-induced osteomalacia (TIO) is a rare acquired form of hypophosphatemia that can be cured when the tumor responsible is completely removed. These tumors can be small and located in anatomically challenging areas, rendering surgery both risky and extensive. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has been explored as an effective treatment option for such tumors. We present a case of a 35-year-old man exhibiting clinical and biochemical features consistent with TIO. The culprit lesion was not detectable on the whole-body computed tomography (CT) scan. Gallium (Ga-68) DOTANOC positron emission tomography (PET)/CT showed increased uptake in the left acetabulum and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed the location of the tumor. Given the risky anatomical location, we opted for less-invasive RFA. Following an unsuccessful attempt at CT-guided RFA of the lesion, we used real-time Ga-68 DOTANOC PET/CT guidance for precise imaging during the ablation procedure. Our patient achieved complete remission both clinically and biochemically after RFA. This response was also evident by the absence of tracer uptake in follow-up imaging. In conclusion, DOTANOC PET/CT–guided RFA can serve as a safe and effective treatment for patients with tumors causing TIO. This modality proves valuable when surgical resection is not a viable option.
Assessment of the global healthcare industry during COVID-19 pandemic: A content analysis approach
Authors: Ladki Malik , Daher Latifa , Abou Chacra Robert , Kassis Elie , Ayrout Chady , Moubayed Hadi , Abbas Amal , Boudani Nahed , A Doumit Ralph , Bitar Sylvana , Kizirian Annie , Hasna Rola , Barakat Darine , Faour Wissam H.
Published: April 2024

Background Content analysis (CA) is an investigative research tool used in healthcare studies to identify imminent challenges while providing lead time for preparedness measures. The objective of this study is to report on the challenges confronting the global healthcare industry. Methods This study used the conventional CA “bottom-up” approach to a quantitative data. CA is a research technique that uses the qualitative research method and word counts to evaluate communication outcomes. A group of executive master’s in business administration (EMBA) and medical students championed the study. Using 13 periodicals as the data sources, researchers conducted online keyword searches for all articles, titles, and abstracts containing the word “healthcare”. The collected data was gathered from five international, four Middle Eastern, and four Lebanese periodicals from January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021. Results CA results indicate remarkable domination of keywords “COVID-19 health impact” as a major worldwide theme. Significant differences were noticeable among subcategories but remained related to COVID-19 in particular, social responsibilities, and research and development. Topics such as comorbid illnesses, social responsibility, healthcare logistics, and the well-being of healthcare service providers were among the least covered topics. Conclusion Our findings emphasize the importance of global media and their coverage of healthcare issues on the types of healthcare topics (e.g., vaccines, drugs…) covered in the Lebanese periodicals in our study. Thus, global healthcare media are the main source for Lebanese periodicals reporting healthcare issues rather than the Lebanese healthcare authorities. Therefore, there is need for the development of a more efficient technology-driven healthcare management system. At the global level, there is a need to develop a step-by-step action-oriented strategic initiative to respond to emerging pandemics.
Case Report: Allogenic Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cell and exosome therapy are safe and effective for diabetic kidney failure
Authors: Habiba Umm E , Greene David Lawrence , Ahmad Khalil , Shamim Sabiha , Khan Nasar , Umer Amna
Published: April 2024

Diabetes typically leads to repercussions such as chronic kidney disease (CKD), a worldwide health problem. Dialysis is typical for severe renal function loss (eGFR 15), but complications continue to exist. Chronic dialysis shortens life expectancy, and the wait for a transplant can be long, resulting in significant mortality. Human umbilical cord-derived Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells (hWJ-MSCs) have shown potential in regenerative healthcare for kidney repair, with unique capacities in restoring function and repairing damaged kidneys in animal models of chronic renal failure. The need to advance alternative medicines, such as regenerative medicine, in addressing crucial concerns in CKD care is stressed. We present the first case report in humans of a 70-year-old male with stage V chronic kidney disease caused by type 2 diabetes mellitus who received allogenic hWJ-MSCs and exosomes. The procedure includes the intravenous infusion of 100 million stem cells and 100 billion exosomes, which proved to be safe with no side effects. The renal profile improved significantly between the first and fourth months after infusion, according to assessments comprising lab results and the KDQOL-36TM questionnaire. Human umbilical cord Wharton’s jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cell implantations proved safe and effective in treating CKD.
An exploration of the social determinants of the health and well-being among older African immigrants living in San Diego. A socio-ecological approach
Authors: Mwendwa Purity , Al-Rousan Tala
Published: April 2024

Background As immigration continues to be a global phenomenon, the number of aging immigrants will increase. There is a knowledge gap in the United States on the social determinants of health among older immigrants, especially the older refugee population. We aimed to explore the social determinants of health among older African immigrants living in San Diego, California, and to suggest strategies that can inform the design of health-promoting interventions. Methods We employed a qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews with 11 participants (nine females and two males). We used deductive thematic analysis to explore and analyse the factors that influence their health and well-being based on the five levels of the socio-ecological model (individual, interpersonal, organizational, community, and public policy). Results Participants were aged between 62 and 90 years; eight participants had arrived as refugees. Thematic analysis resulted in the following themes within the five levels: individual (pre-migration and migration experiences and impact on health, aging-related health decline, sedentary lifestyle, side effects of medications,language barrier); interpersonal (social support and social participation); organizational (access to healthcare and support services, transportation, - disruption to services due to COVID-19, perception of healthcare and support services); community (social, emotional and practical support, connecting older adults to services) and public policy (financial barriers, immigration policies and legal status). Conclusions Given the distinct linguistic and cultural backgrounds coupled with the unique health needs of our study participants, there is a need for diverse and complementary interventions that seek to build a sense of community and social support for older adults. Such interventions ought to be co-developed with immigrant communities and local organizations to ensure cultural acceptability and effectiveness. Crucially needed are immigration policies that consider the unique situation of older immigrants from low-income backgrounds to ensure equitable access to health and social care services.
Paper-based geriatric interprofessional education for enhancing students’ interest in treating older people
Authors: Teuwen Carolyn Joyce , Vorstermans Karlijn , Kusurkar Rashmi A. , Schreurs Hermien , Daelmans Hester E.M. , Peerdeman Saskia M.
Published: April 2024

Interprofessional education is one of the interventions used to increase health care students’ motivation for working with older patients. Previous research about such interventions has been conducted without the use of control groups and has given inconclusive results. The objective of the present curricular resource was: Does geriatric paper-based interprofessional education influence students’ interest in treating older people? During a one-year period, undergraduate fourth-year medical and third-year nursing students wrote four health care plans for four different paper-based older patient cases. In the intervention group students were paired up in interprofessional couples. In the control group students made the assignment alone. Interest for working with older patients was measured on a 5-point Likert scale before and one year after the intervention. In both groups, no significant change was found. Before-interest score of the interprofessional group was relatively high (3.8) so the non-significant results may be due to a ceiling effect. Nursing students’ interest in treating older people at the start of the research was higher than medical students’ interest.
Women academics’ encounters with sexism in academic medicine: a collective biography from the Indian context
Authors: Dharanipragada Kadambari , Batmanabane Gitanjali , Basu Sharbari , Samuel Evangeline , Maroju Nanda Kishore , Zayabalaradjane Zayapragassarazan
Published: April 2024

Background People of all genders face sexism in academia and medicine is no exception. One of the key strategies that we, as academics, can employ to resist it is to talk, study and write about it. Recent reports in the Indian media about sexism faced by women in higher education academia have led to the development of policies to curb it. But these measures work only on overt forms of sexism. The more subtle sexism that women face is barely talked about because it has become so internalized in society, that it is ‘normal’. Methods To initiate the discussion on sexism that women students and faculty face in medicine, the authors conducted a piece of feminist research using collective biography as the methodology. Essays written by four women at different levels of seniority in academia, on the sexism they encountered during their career trajectory were coded independently by two authors and categories and themes were derived from the codes generated. Strategies to address sexism were discussed. Results Four themes emerged from the analysis – sexism in academic medicine is a real presence, resisting sexism, need for social support for change to happen and optimism for change. All the four essays recounted encounters with sexism, the different ways they resisted these practices, the support they received from families and colleagues in moving ahead and a hint of optimism and hope for change. Conclusions This small inquiry into a pervasive problem that women face in their everyday work emphasizes the need for a multipronged approach to address it. While the older generation of women in medicine have relied mostly on their inner strength and resolve to combat sexism, it is time that a collective effort by both men and women is made to take academia closer to achieving equality.
12 tips for conducting an organizational communication assessment within medical education
Authors: Terhune Julia
Published: April 2024

Understanding the flow of communication is vital for the health and longevity of any organization-- public or private. Poor organizational communication can lead to employee dissatisfaction, high turnover, and dissolution of a program, unit or an entire entity. While Medical Education Programs are tied to higher education, the unique way that they run lends itself to organizational communication vulnerabilities. Medical Colleges require the same higher educational oversight, while their teachers, researchers, mentors, and stakeholders are often tied to hospitals and clinical networks that create complexity in job roles, responsibilities, and identities. All the while, medical students are the input and output for the whole of the operation. Making sure that the flow of communication and the understanding each person has on their place within the College is key to student success and the overall success of the program. The best way to ensure that this is being done is through organizational communication assessments. This paper provides 12 tips on how these assessments can be completed holistically and effectively in the complex world that is medical education.
A literature review of pyroprocessing safeguards
Authors: Hargreaves Abigayle I. , Barker Eva , Berry Jaylyn , Dolley Evan , Pope Chad L.
Published: April 2024

Pyroprocessing is a promising technology for reprocessing used nuclear fuel (UNF) from light water reactors (LWR) and sodium fast reactors (SFR). With the advancement of fast reactors with projects from companies such as TerraPower, the prospects of pyroprocessing are more promising than ever before, as fast reactors can consume all actinides, not just uranium and plutonium. Before pyroprocessing can be implemented commercially, pre-existing safeguards used for aqueous reprocessing must be adapted for pyroprocessing. Safeguards, as determined by both the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), are discussed in this review as guidelines for approaches used in both domestic and international reprocessing plants. The implementation of safeguards in aqueous reprocessing was then reviewed based on the experience from existing aqueous facilities. The experimental pyroprocessing facilities were identified as pyroprocessing plants in the design stage with one operating exception of the Fuel Conditioning Facility (FCF). The safeguard methods implemented or designed for each and the accompanying challenges of utilizing existing safeguards in pyroprocessing are considered and a summary of applicable approaches is included.
Sustainable energy skills in the construction sector 3.0: expertise, lessons learned, and developed methodologies on energy efficiency skills competencies, and qualifications
Authors: Maktabifard Mohaddeseh , Wagenhofer Gerald , Jakob Uli , Wilczynski Łukasz , Cromwijk Jan , Petran Horia , Stojanovska-Georgievska Lihnida , McCormack Paul
Published: April 2024

The European construction sector is one of the areas with the highest potential when it comes to reducing annual energy consumption. Facing many challenges to achieve ambitious energy efficiency objectives, this sector aims to proceed by applying successful training initiatives and supporting policy instruments.

For this reason, the creation of BUILD UP Skills, an EU Initiative to improve the qualification and skills of Europe’s building workers, acted as a springboard to stimulate the demand for energy efficiency skills. Furthermore, focusing on the continuing education of craftsmen and other on-site building workers, this initiative is home to most of the projects presented during the Sustainable Energy Skills in the Construction sector workshops 1.0 and 2.0 and 3.0, presented at SP2020, SP2021 and SP 2022, respectively. Consisting of nine Horizon 2020 projects—PRO-Heritage, TRAIN4SUSTAIN, INSTRUCT, BUSLeague, the nZEB Roadshow, SEEtheSkills, ARISE, BUS-GoCircular and nZEB Ready—the objective of the third edition of the workshop was to share expertise, lessons learned, and developed methodologies on energy efficiency skills competencies, and qualifications across the building design, operation, and maintenance value chain.
Soothing dementia carers: A pilot evaluation of an imagery-based wellbeing app feature to support family carers of people with dementia during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: MacLennan Keren , Byrne Phoenix , Allan Stephanie , Gambier-Ross Katie , Jain Pooja , Chan Stella W.Y.
Published: April 2024

Background The COVID-19 pandemic has presented unprecedented risks to the health of people living with dementia. Confinement to their homes and extra pressure on the health and social care system, left people with dementia and their carers with reduced access to care services. Accordingly, family carers assumed more caring responsibilities and faced a greater risk of social isolation and loneliness, negatively affecting their mental wellbeing. In response, we developed a new imagery-based feature called Project Soothe within an existing app, CogniCare, which aimed to support the wellbeing of family carers looking after someone with dementia at home. Methods This new feature aimed to test the utility of our previous research which has shown that viewing soothing images has positive mood benefits on users. In this pilot, we examined the usage of the Project Soothe feature over a one-year period. Results Our results indicate the feasibility of the imagery-based app feature as we found that most users found viewing the soothing images to have a positive influence on their mood. Conclusions This finding illustrates feasibility of this imagery-based wellbeing app in this population of interest, and suggests that, upon further replication and research, the Project Soothe feature within the CogniCare app has potential to be developed as a digital wellbeing tool for family carers of people with dementia.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and care home closures on timing of mortality in residents of English LTCFs
Authors: Taylor Katherine , Krutikov Maria , Jhass Arnoupe , Amzi Borsha , Monakhov Igor , Copas Andrew , Shallcross Laura , Stirrup Oliver
Published: April 2024

Background In the UK, mortality incidence of residents in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) was high during the first two waves of the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to the pandemic, mortality risk was greater amongst new LTCFs admissions compared to longer term residents. Following the re-opening of these facilities to new residents after the second wave of the pandemic, we hypothesised that this difference would be more pronounced. We aimed to establish whether this occurred by comparing mortality risk in new admissions with existing residents. Methods Data were accessed from the VIVALDI study, a prospective cohort study set up to investigate COVID-19 in English LTCFs. Residents aged over 65 were included and analysis performed over the Delta (16th May 2021-19th December 2021) and Omicron (19th December 2021-31st March 2022) waves of the pandemic. Classification into new and existing residents was based on presence in the LTCF before or after 24th April 2021. Mixed effects Cox regression models were used, with separate hazard ratios associated for existing vs new residents estimated for each calendar month. Results 11,532 residents were observed during the Delta wave and 9,801 during the Omicron wave. Mortality hazard ratios for existing care home residents compared to new care home residents stabilised after September 2021, following a period of reduced risk between May (HR: 0.23 95% CI: 0.11-0.47) and August (HR: 0.37, CI:0.29-0.47) 2021. No mortality displacement was observed in the Omicron wave. Conclusions Mortality rates amongst existing residents were lower than anticipated between May and August 2021 but increased and stabilised by September 2021, providing evidence for mortality displacement within this population. Improved monitoring of infection outcomes for LTCF residents that consider time since admission would help improve our understanding of the dynamics and composition of LTCF populations in non-pandemic periods.
Insights into COVID-19 data collection and management in Malawi: exploring processes, perceptions, and data discrepancies
Authors: Taylor Amelia , Liwewe Thokozani , Todd Jim , Kankhwali Chisomo , Mwale Anne , Kiwuwa-Muyingo Sylvia
Published: April 2024

Background The completion of case-based surveillance forms was vital for case identification during COVID-19 surveillance in Malawi. Despite significant efforts, the resulting national data suffered from gaps and inconsistencies which affected its optimal usability. The objectives of this study were to investigate the processes of collecting and reporting COVID-19 data, to explore health workers’ perceptions and understanding of the collection tools and processes, and to identify factors contributing to data quality. Methods A total of 75 healthcare professionals directly involved in COVID-19 data collection from the Malawi Ministry of Health in Lilongwe and Blantyre participated in Focus Group Discussions and In-Depth Interviews. We collected participants’ views on the effectiveness of surveillance forms in collecting the intended data, as well as on the data collection processes and training needs. We used MAXQDA for thematic and document analysis. Results Form design significantly influenced data quality and, together with challenges in applying case definitions, formed 44% of all issues raised. Concerns regarding processes used in data collection and training gaps comprised 49% of all the issues raised. Language issues (2%) and privacy, ethical, and cultural considerations (4%), although mentioned less frequently, offered compelling evidence for further review. Conclusions Our study highlights the integral connection between data quality and the design and utilization of data collection forms. While the forms were deemed to contain the most relevant fields, deficiencies in format, order of fields, and the absence of an addendum with guidelines, resulted in large gaps and errors. Form design needs to be reviewed so that it appropriately fits into the overall processes and systems that capture surveillance data. This study is the first of its kind in Malawi, offering an in-depth view of the perceptions and experiences of health professionals involved in disease surveillance on the tools and processes they use.
Feasibility of a nurse-led, mHealth-assisted, and team-based collaborative care model for heart failure care in India: Findings from a multi-stakeholder qualitative study
Authors: Thomas Sunu C. , Neenumol Kandagathuparambil , Chacko Susanna , Prinu Jose , Pillai Meera R. , Pisharody Sunil , Chozhakkat Somanathan , Vijay MS Jyothi , Iliyas A. Mohamed , Harikrishnan Sivadasanpillai , Ganapathi Sanjay , Jeemon Panniyammakal
Published: April 2024

Background Heart failure (HF) management is often challenging due to poor adherence to GDMT and self-care. Continuous monitoring of patients by a dedicated care manager may enhance adherence to self-care and treatment and prevent hospitalisations. For the adoption and acceptance of a collaborative care model (CCM) for HF management in Indian settings, understanding the perspectives of all stakeholders regarding its various components and feasibility is needed. Therefore, we aimed to obtain perceptions of potential challenges to care and suggestions on multiple components of the proposed CCM in managing HF and its feasibility. Methods In-depth interviews were done among HF patients, caregivers, nurses, and cardiologists from private, co-operative, and public sector tertiary care hospital settings that cater to HF patients in Kerala, India. An in-depth interview guide was used to elicit the data. Data were analysed using Python QualCoder version 2.2. We used a framework method for the analysis of data. Results A total of 22 in-depth interviews were conducted. We found that the existing care for HF in many settings was inadequate for continuous engagement with the patients. Non-adherence to treatment and other self-care measures, was noted as a major challenge to HF care. Healthcare providers and patients felt nurses were better at leading collaborative care. However, various barriers, including technical and technological, and the apprehensions of nurses in leading the CCM were identified. The stakeholders also identified the mHealth-assisted CCM as a potential tool to save money. The stakeholders also appreciated the role of nurses in creating confidence in patients. Conclusions A nurse-led, mHealth-assisted, and team-based collaborative care was recognised as an excellent step to improve patient adherence. Effective implementation of it could reduce hospitalisations and improve patients' ability to manage their HF symptoms.
Mobilizing knowledge about urban change for equity and sustainability: developing ‘Change Stories’, a multi-country transdisciplinary study
Authors: Pineo Helen , Álvarez Rivadulla María José , Borde Elis , Caiaffa Waleska Teixeira , Dianati Vafa , Ellis Geraint , Fleischer Friederike , Hurtado Tarazona Adriana , Sarmiento Olga L. , Martire Agustina , Montero Sergio , Moore Gemma , Morley Rebecca , Prasad Aarathi
Published: April 2024

Background Health-focused research funders increasingly support multi-country research partnerships that study health, urban development and equity in global settings. To develop new knowledge that benefits society, these grants require researchers to integrate diverse knowledges and data, and to manage research-related aspects of coloniality, such as power imbalances and epistemic injustices. We conducted research to develop a transdisciplinary study proposal with partners in multiple middle and high income countries, aiming to embed equity into the methodology and funding model. Methods Parallel to literature review, we used participatory and social research methods to identify case study cities for our primary study and to inform our study design. We conducted semi-structured interviews with informed and consented sustainable urban development experts in the USA (n=23). We co-developed our research approach with our global advisory group (n=14) and conducted a participatory workshop (n=30) to identify case study sites, also informed by conversations with international academic experts in sustainable development (n=27). Results Through literature review we found that there is a need to study the contextual pre-conditions of urban transformation, the influence of coloniality on understandings of how cities can change and the failure of standard development practices to meet the needs of all residents and the planet. Through expert input and literature we found that decolonial and storytelling methods may help us show the complexities behind stories of urban transformation, particularly the role of marginalized populations in creating long-term change. Conclusions There are multiple benefits of conducting research to develop an equitably designed multi-country research collaboration. We built new partnerships and co-developed our research approach, creating new understanding of diverse collaborators’ disciplinary perspectives and institutional requirements. By investigating the informational needs of U.S. sustainable development actors and designing our study to meet these needs, we have increased the likelihood that our research will create impact.
The genome sequence of the marbled rockcod, Notothenia rossii Richardson, 1844
Authors: Bista Iliana , Collins Martin ,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective
Published: April 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual Notothenia rossii (the marbled rockcod; Chordata; Actinopterygii; Perciformes; Nototheniidae). The genome sequence is 1,042.9 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 12 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 21.68 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 24,432 protein coding genes.
SUBSTANTIATION OF THE NEED TO IMPLEMENT A CONTINUOUS INFORMATION SECURITY PROCESS AT ENTERPRISES
Authors: Syshchikova Elena N. , Makarova Ekaterina E. , Muratova Marina N.
Published: April 2024

The article discusses information security in the system of an industrial enterprise. Attention is focused on the need to implement a continuous information security process to protect all information assets from leaks, theft and unauthorized disclosure, the main provisions of information security management standards are analyzed.
Objective: To optimize the methods of software protection of modern industrial enterprises, as well as to reduce threats and vulnerabilities related to information security at enterprises.
Method or methodology of the work: In the process of investigating the problem, analytical methods of analysis were used.
Results:  The need to use ISO/IEC 27001 standards and the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) model at industrial enterprises of high-tech sectors of the economy in order to reduce threats and losses of information security, identify critical factors that negatively affect business processes and the enterprises themselves.
Practical implications: The results obtained can be used as a theoretical basis for existing assessments of information security tools and automated security systems at high-tech industrial enterprises in modern economic conditions.
Aproximación a la relación entre la imagen, el texto y su disposición en la página en pliegos de cordel y romances hechos en Andalucía durante la Edad Moderna.
Authors: Rios Moyano Sonia
Published: April 2024

La presencia de estampas de contenido novelesco ha sido notable en una amplia variedad de documentos efímeros que se realizaron durante la Edad Moderna, en España en general y en Andalucía en particular. En esta aportación, nos centramos en el análisis de la imagen de contenido novelesco, específicamente en la literatura de cordel durante el Siglo de Oro en Andalucía. Este estudio pretende ser un acercamiento a la imagen, analizando y encontrando nexos desde el punto de vista formal que nos ayuden a entender mejor la composición de esa primera página de los pliegos y cómo se establecían las distintas divisiones de la caja de texto en función del número de tacos necesarios para ilustrar el pliego.
Consideraciones generales para el análisis y la interpretación de los estados financieros
Authors: Cárdenas Yeimy Luis
Published: April 2024

Los estados financieros son la principal herramienta para conocer el desempeño histórico y el estado financiero actual de una compañía, por lo que cobra relevancia saber leer, analizar e interpretar estos informes. El lector de los estados financieros debe empezar por tener claridad sobre cuáles Normas Internacionales de Información Financiera (NIIF) le son aplicables a la empresa, identificar el tipo de estado financiero objeto de su lectura: individual, separado, consolidado o combinado, y efectuar un análisis integral de los estados financieros. El análisis integral es el resultante del análisis cuantitativo de las cifras de los estados financieros y del análisis cualitativo de información complementaria, como características del sector al que pertenece la compañía, regulación aplicable, coyuntura económica del momento de análisis, normatividad contable, normatividad tributaria, estructura de gobierno corporativo, entre otros. A su vez, el ejercicio se enriquece en la medida en que se analiza información de compañías comparables. Para hacer el análisis y la interpretación de los estados financieros, las herramientas cuantitativas de amplio uso y aceptación son: el análisis horizontal, el análisis vertical y los indicadores financieros. En este capítulo se presentan los procedimientos para efectuar el análisis horizontal y el análisis vertical, las consideraciones que se deben tener en cuenta en cada análisis, y se incluye un ejemplo de aplicación de estas herramientas.
Elementos financieros en áreas funcionales: el caso del marketing
Authors: Useche Alejandro J. , Paredes Mario R.
Published: April 2024

Las actividades de marketing juegan un papel fundamental para el desarrollo del objeto social de una organización, la obtención de ingresos operacionales y la creación de valor. Tales actividades tienen un claro trasfondo financiero pues implican inversiones que posteriormente se pueden ver reflejadas en crecimiento de las ventas, de manera que, al afectar los flujos de caja, son susceptibles de ser evaluadas mediante el uso de criterios financieros. Contar con indicadores específicos de medición permite sustentar el impacto financiero de las acciones de marketing y mejorar su desempeño, a la vez que contribuye a comprender con más precisión la interrelación entre las áreas funcionales. En este orden de ideas, el objetivo del capítulo es presentar las principales métricas de desempeño financiero de las actividades de marketing, resaltar su relevancia dentro de la gestión empresarial y reflexionar sobre los retos que implica la adopción de tal sistema de medición en el marco de una estrategia corporativa integral.
Efectos de corto plazo del Covid-19 sobre la desigualdad del ingreso laboral en Colombia
Authors: Cárdenas Rubio Jeisson , Montaña Doncel Jaime
Published: April 2024

Este capítulo tiene como objetivo cuantificar en el corto plazo los efectos que el Covid-19 ha dejado sobre la distribución del ingreso laboral y así establecer cuáles han sido los factores más determinantes en este cambio. En el análisis, se pone en evidencia cómo las características demográficas, la estructura ocupacional y sectorial, y las características del empleo contribuyen a la desigualdad del ingreso. Reconociendo que la crisis afecta de distinta manera tanto a los sectores como a las ocupaciones, es importante diferenciar si los efectos identificados en la distribución del ingreso laboral provienen de cambios en la composición de dichos sectores y ocupaciones, o de ajustes salariales dentro de la distribución. La metodología utilizada permite identificar la contribución de cada factor en cada uno de los componentes, y así entender el rol de cada factor y los efectos en la distribución. Para realizar tal comparación, utilizamos el índice de Gini y su descomposición (Firpo, Fortin y Lemieux, 2018). Usar el índice de Gini tiene la ventaja de que es fácil de interpretar y las comparaciones en el tiempo no presuponen supuestos en la composición de la estructura, o supuestos difíciles de verificar. Mientras que emplear otros índices (ej., Theil) no permite la comparación directa entre poblaciones con diferentes estructuras y diferentes tamaños.
Informalidad laboral y Covid-19: vulnerabilidad o flexibilidad
Authors: Álvarez Andrés , Zambrano Andrés , Zuleta Hernando
Published: April 2024

Este capítulo tiene cuatro secciones, de las cuales esta introducción es la primera. En la segunda, analizamos la vulnerabilidad de los sectores económicos, de las firmas y de los trabajadores frente a la crisis. En la tercera, nos detenemos en los efectos de la crisis sobre los ingresos laborales de trabajadores formales e informales y estudiamos la capacidad de respuesta ante el choque negativo de la pandemia. Finalmente, en la última presentamos las conclusiones.
El proceso de negociación relativo a la diversidad biológica marina de las zonas situadas fuera de la jurisdicción nacional aspectos sensibles, riesgos y desafíos
Authors: Moreira Alberto César
Published: April 2024

El propósito de esta contribución es dar cuenta del proceso y del estado actual de las negociaciones llevadas a cabo en el ámbito de la Organización de las Naciones Unidas (ONU) tendentes a adoptar un instrumento jurídicamente vinculante, complementario de la Convemar, relativo a la diversidad biológica marina en áreas fuera de la jurisdicción nacional, conocido como las negociaciones BBNJ (por las iniciales en inglés de Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction). Se señalan los antecedentes de este proceso, desde la creación del Grupo de Trabajo Especial Oficioso de Composición Abierta, en 2004, hasta los resultados de la tercera reunión sustantiva de la Conferencia, que se llevó a cabo en 2018. Se formulan precisiones acerca del objeto y el método de la negociación, y se abordan algunos de los aspectos sensibles, sin agotarlos en su profundidad, para esbozar un análisis de conjunto. La contribución pone de relieve la trascendencia del proceso y alerta sobre los desafíos y los riesgos que este supone, al tiempo que reivindica la necesidad de consolidar una doctrina internacional regional que coadyuve a evitar que posiciones dominantes generen un retroceso en la regulación de ciertos espacios y alteren el delicado equilibrio de intereses logrado a través de la Convemar.
Vestir al Niño Jesús: religiosidad popular y marianismo en el Norte Grande de Chile
Authors: Guerrero Jiménez Bernardo
Published: April 2024

En este artículo analizamos una práctica religiosa desarrollada por las numerosas y diversas cofradías que participan con sus bailes y cantos en la fiesta de La Tirana. En esta fiesta, mariana que rinde honores a la Virgen del Carmen, y que se celebra el 16 de julio de cada año en el pueblo de La Tirana, perteneciente a la región de Tarapacá, una de las cuatro que integran el Norte Grande de Chile, cada una de las 220 cofradías, junto con portar durante su peregrinaje una imagen propia de la Virgen del Carmen con el Niño Jesús en brazos, viste la figura del Niño con los atuendos típicos de su baile.
Virginia Woolf numa praia amazônica: cartas e águas para Danielle Fonseca
Authors: Pimentel Vera Maria Segurado , Klautau de Araújo Filho José Mariano
Published: April 2024

Rumo ao Farol: o destino da palavra é tornar-se água, da artista paraense Danielle Fonseca, é uma série constituída por vídeo-poema, fotografia, objeto e ações, baseado na reflexão da Sra. Ramsey, personagem de Rumo ao Farol de Virginia Woolf, singularizado no resgate da escrita e no gesto de depositar cartas
Camnitzer: um artista a serviço do conhecimento
Authors: Sá Alexandre , Prado Lopes Ana Tereza , Queiroz Tania
Published: April 2024

Entrevista com Luiz Camnitzer realizada no Rio de Janeiro, em 08 de novembro de 2022.
Young patient with a giant gastric bronchogenic cyst: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Lu Xu-Ren , Jiao Xu-Guang , Sun Qi-Hang , Li Bo-Wen , Zhu Qing-Shun , Zhu Guang-Xu , Qu Jian-Jun
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Gastric bronchogenic cysts (BCs) are extremely rare cystic masses caused by abnormal development of the respiratory system during the embryonic period. Gastric bronchial cysts are rare lesions that were first reported in 1956; as of 2023, only 33 cases are available in the PubMed online database. BCs usually have no clinical symptoms in the early stage, and imaging findings also lack specificity. Therefore, they are difficult to diagnose before histopathological examination.

CASE SUMMARY

A 34-year-old woman with respiratory distress presented at our hospital. Endoscopic ultrasound revealed an anechoic mass between the spleen, left kidney and gastric fundus, with hyperechogenic and soft elastography textures and with a size of approximately 6.5 cm × 4.0 cm. Furthermore, a computed tomography scan demonstrated high density between the posterior stomach and the spleen and the left kidney, with uniform internal density and a small amount of calcification. The maximum cross section was approximately 10.1 cm × 6.1 cm, and the possibility of a cyst was high. Because the imaging findings did not suggest a malignancy and because the patient required complete resection, she underwent laparotomy surgery. Intraoperatively, this cystic lesion was found to be located in the posterior wall of the large curvature of the fundus and was approximately 8 cm × 6 cm in size. Finally, the pathologists verified that the cyst in the fundus was a gastric BC. The patient recovered well, her symptoms of chest tightness disappeared, and the abdominal drain was removed on postoperative day 6, after which she was discharged on day 7 for 6 months of follow-up. She had no tumor recurrence or postoperative complications during the follow-up.

CONCLUSION

This is a valuable report as it describes an extremely rare case of gastric BC. Moreover, this was a very young patient with a large BC in the stomach.
ChatGPT… ¿Escribes un poema? Oportunidades para la didáctica de la lírica en el primer curso de Educación Secundaria
Authors: Bartolomé Porcar Cristina
Published: April 2024

La incursión de la Inteligencia Artificial conocida como ChatGPT ha sido un revulsivo para muchos campos de estudio. Esta nueva tecnología ha venido para quedarse, por lo que podemos aprovechar sus posibilidades a la par que educamos en su uso responsable. El presente trabajo presenta una propuesta en torno a la didáctica del género literario lírico en secundaria (primer curso). Se parte de un poema colectivo creado con dicha herramienta, un recurso que lleva al aula la reflexión sobre los principales rasgos para la identificación de un poema y la propiedad intelectual. Además, se propone al alumnado la reelaboración y mejora del texto creado por el algoritmo. Esta secuencia de actividades potencia el uso crítico de las inteligencias artificiales a partir de la experiencia en primera persona de la creación literaria.
Analogías y singularidades en la función tutorial en el Máster de Formación del Profesorado de Secundaria Obligatoria y Bachillerato, Formación Profesional y Enseñanza de Idiomas: una aproximación en contextos presenciales y online
Authors: Gil-Fernández Raquel , Martín-Piñol Carolina , Minguella-González Anna
Published: April 2024

El presente artículo reflexiona sobre la función tutorial del docente en relación con el Trabajo de Final de Titulación en el contexto del Máster en Profesorado de Enseñanza Secundaria Obligatoria y Bachillerato, Formación Profesional y Enseñanza de Idiomas y el impacto de su futura práctica en el discente. La revisión de la literatura científica alertó de cierta ausencia de bibliografía relacionada con el Trabajo Final de Máster, adquiriendo mayor relevancia en las investigaciones los contenidos propios sobre las materias de estudio. Se realizó un focus group virtual con 12 participantes de 3 universidades españolas, una presencial y dos online. Se recogieron sus experiencias en el ejercicio docente, atendiendo a la identidad profesional del tutor/a, aspectos funcionales externos a la tutorización y el desarrollo de esta; así como los retos e inquietudes que emergen en la tarea profesional, desde una prospectiva de mejora de la práctica educativa. Como resultados y en concordancia con la bibliografía, los docentes señalan la orientación como la función principal del proceso tutorial y describen una serie competencias curriculares y emocionales intrínsecas, a la vez que demandan formación de mejora voluntaria para el docente.
Sense plaer clitòric les dones emmalaltim
Authors: Rivera Garretas María-Milagros
Published: April 2024

La fi del patriarcat ha convertit la vaginalitat en una opció lliure. Escollir la vaginalitat, és a dir, la penetració (vaginal, anal, oral) com a font de plaer, implica, al meu entendre, desplaçar o eliminar el plaer de la clítoris de la vida com un plaer propi femení, ignorant que la clítoris és un òrgan la funció del qual és donar plaer a les dones. Significa renunciar al més femení, que no és només la maternitat sinó també el placer vital constitutiu d’existència, un plaer que no separa sinó uneix cos i ànima en plenitud infinita. Sostinc, amb textos femenins sobre la virginitat –textos que no vam entendre gaire feministes del segle XX que, justament, no els consideràrem polítics–, que la força d’una dona s’esquartera quan oblida que el plaer femení és clitòric, quan cedeix al plaer de l’home, un plaer, aquest, que desconeix la unió mística.
Assessment of power spectral density of microvascular hemodynamics in skeletal muscles at very low and low-frequency via near-infrared diffuse optical spectroscopies: erratum
Authors: Amendola Caterina , Buttafava Mauro , Carteano Talyta , Contini Letizia , Cortese Lorenzo , Durduran Turgut , Frabasile Lorenzo , Guadagno Claudia Nunzia , Karadeniz Umut , Lacerenza Michele , Mesquida Jaume , Parsa Shahrzad , Re Rebecca , Garcia Diego Sanoja , Venkata Sekar Sanathana Konugolu , Spinelli Lorenzo , Torricelli Alessandro , Tosi Alberto , Weigel Udo M. , Atif Yaqub M. , Zanoletti Marta , Contini Davide
Published: April 2024

This publisher’s note contains a correction to Biomed. Opt. Express 14(11), 5994 (2023)10.1364/BOE.502618.
Diagonalizing the Jaynes-Cummings Hamiltonian and Jaynes-Cummings coherent states
Authors: Barnett Stephen M. , Dalton Bryan J.
Published: April 2024

We determine the form of the unitary transformation that diagonalizes the Jaynes-Cummings Hamiltonian. This leads to operators the action of which has a simple interpretation in terms of the dressed states, the energy eigenstates. This suggests a set of coherent states and spin coherent states based on the dressed states.
Photonic architecture for remote multi-parameter measurement and transmission of microwave signals
Authors: Wang Yi , Yang Shuna , Yang Bo , Chi Hao
Published: April 2024

A photonic architecture for remote multi-parameter measurement and transmission of microwave signals is proposed and demonstrated, which utilizes a dual-parallel dual-drive Mach-Zehnder modulator (DP-DDMZM) in the antenna unit and a dual-drive Mach-Zehnder modulator (DDMZM) in the processing unit. Doppler frequency shift (DFS) and angle of arrival (AOA) can be determined by analyzing the down-converted intermediate frequency signals. Introducing a reference signal in the processing unit ensures DFS measurement without directional ambiguity. The proposed architecture can also be applied for instantaneous frequency measurement based on down-conversion. Due to the use of optical single sideband modulation, long-distance transmission of radio frequency (RF) signals without dispersion-induced power fading can be achieved. Experiments for accurate and stable DFS and AOA measurement as well as long-distance RF signal transmission with dispersion-induced power fading are presented. The approach avoids the use of optical filters and polarization-related devices, facilitating wideband and stable operation, which is highly desirable. The proposed architecture is a potential solution for microwave photonic antenna remoting, offering support for both remote transmission and multi-parameter measurement.
Single-stage 2 × 2 silicon thermo-optic switch with crosstalk < −35 dB over 40 nm and Pπ < 8 mW
Authors: Zhang Lei , Yang Tongxin , Zhang Enge , Zhang Shiqi , Yang Shanglin , Yang Xu
Published: April 2024

The Mach–Zehnder interferometer (MZI) optical switch is a fundamental component in constructing photonic integrated circuits for broadband optical signal routing. Its performance is mainly determined by the 2 × 2 optical coupler and the phase shifter. We analyze the influence of the imbalances in power splitting and arm loss on the insertion loss and crosstalk of a single-stage 2 × 2 MZI switch. A 2 × 2 multimode interference (MMI) coupler with low excess loss (< 0.14 dB) and low imbalance (< 0.13 dB) over 40 nm is proposed. We show the robustness of the MMI to width variations up to ± 40 nm. Folded configurations are used for both the silicon waveguides and the metallic heaters to increase the power efficiency. The device is fabricated on a silicon-on-insulator substrate using e-beam lithography. It has an on-chip insertion loss of 0.7 dB and a crosstalk < –35 dB over 40 nm, and < –40 dB over 20 nm. The power required for a phase shift of π is 7.6 mW. The rise and fall times are both within 20 µs.
Impact of four years of annually repeated indoor residual spraying (IRS) with Actellic 300CS on routinely reported malaria cases in an agricultural setting in Malawi
Authors: Hoek Spaans Remy , Mkumbwa Albert , Nasoni Peter , Jones Christopher M. , Stanton Michelle C.
Published: April 2024

Indoor residual spraying (IRS) is one of the main vector control tools used in malaria prevention. This study evaluates IRS in the context of a privately run campaign conducted across a low-lying, irrigated, sugarcane estate from Illovo Sugar, in the Chikwawa district of Malawi. The effect of Actellic 300CS annual spraying over four years (2015-2018) was assessed using a negative binomial mixed effects model, in an area where pyrethroid resistance has previously been identified. With an unadjusted incidence rate ratio (IRR) of 0.38 (95% CI: 0.32–0.45) and an adjusted IRR of 0.50 (95% CI: 0.42-0.59), IRS has significantly contributed to a reduction in case incidence rates at Illovo, as compared to control clinics and time points outside of the six month protective period. This study shows how the consistency of a privately run IRS campaign can improve the health of employees. More research is needed on the duration of protection and optimal timing of IRS programmes.