bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Barriers and Limitations in Protocols to Protect the Right to Property in Sporting Events from the Perspective of the SDGs
Authors: Carranza Felix Magno Pomachari
Published: November 2024

Objective: The study examined the barriers and limitations in current protocols to protect the right to property in sporting events, considering the importance of citizen safety and the need to improve the effectiveness of such protocols under a systematic review model.
 
Theoretical Framework: The right to property is a fundamental human right, widely recognized in both national legislation and international instruments. From a historical perspective, the right to property has been a fundamental axis in the development of civil law and has been closely linked to the protection of individual freedom and economic development.
 
Method: A basic, non-experimental, descriptive and systematic review study was considered, 18 articles from three high-impact and citation databases (Scopus, Web Of Science, Doaj) were systematized.
 
Results and Discussion: The results showed that the lack of inter-institutional coordination, the limited training of security personnel, and the insufficient technological infrastructure constitute the main barriers that hinder the effective protection of property in sporting events.
 
Research Implications: It was concluded that the implementation of a comprehensive approach, which includes improved coordination, specific training and the use of advanced technologies, would contribute to overcoming these limitations and optimizing the efficiency of security protocols in sporting events.
 
Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by examining the barriers and limitations in protocols for protecting property rights specifically in the context of sporting events, an area that has received limited academic attention. The research offers an innovative approach by combining a systematic review of high-impact databases with a focus on how security protocols align with the objectives of sustainable development (SDGs), particularly in terms of ensuring justice and strong institutions (ODS 16).
A Statistical Analysis of the Follow-Up Study of Radon Measures in Private Homes and Public Buildings Carried out in Four European Towns with an Esteem of Lung Cancer Risk
Authors:   Department of Physics and INFN Torino, Italy, L Visca , G Gervino ,   Department of Physics and INFN Torino, Italy, D Barca ,   IIS Erasmo Da Rotterdam, Nichelino (TO), Italy, R Calabria ,   Department of Physics and INFN Torino, Italy, M Sagona ,   Department of Physics and INFN Torino, Italy
Published: November 2024

Buildings can artificially concentrate radioactive radon gas of geologic origin, exposing occupants to harmful α particle radiation emissions that damage
DNA and increase lung cancer risk. We investigated how radon exposure varies in public and residential buildings by floor, geological soil, by occupant
behaviour and season in two year-long measurement campaigns in four European towns (Torino twice, Bergen, Lund and Reykjavik) based upon CR-39
detectors. Radon concentration data were analyzed using multiple approaches coupling geologic, geographic, architectural, seasonal data with advanced
statistical tests. Soils investigation about the concentration amount of the two main radon ancestors, uranium and thorium, were carried out in sample
collected near the measurements points. Measurements of radon concentration by a gamma spectrometer were done in water samples taken around Torino
too, in order to give an evaluation of another possible radon source. Uncertainty on average radon concentration has a large impact to define an efficient
and integrated strategy for national radon control in order to reduce human exposure. Radon as well as its progenies account for around 50% of the total
effective dose received from all sources of natural radiation (around 2.4 mSv annual dose) and is responsible for a sensible fraction of lung cancer and
leukemia. All the results are shown and discussed and an evaluation of the cancer and leukemia risk related to radon exposure data has been computed.
Fungal Pathogens Affecting Terminalia Brownii Flowers, Fruits and Seeds in Drylands, Kenya
Authors:   Kibwezi Sub-Regional Research Centre, P.O. Box 087 - 90137 Kibwezi, Kenya, MM Okeyo , JW Njuguna ,   Kenya Forestry Research Institute, P.O. Box 20412 - 00200 Nairobi, Kenya, GO Obwoyere ,   Egerton University, P.O. Box 536 - 20115 Egerton, Njoro, Kenya, DL Makanji ,   Egerton University, P.O. Box 536 - 20115 Egerton, Njoro, Kenya, J Machua ,   Kenya Forestry Research Institute, P.O. Box 20412 - 00200 Nairobi, Kenya
Published: November 2024

Terminalia brownii Freshen (Combretaceae family) is a multipurpose agroforestry tree species widely grown in Eastern Africa’s dry lowlands. However, it
needs to be more utilised, which has led to concern about its regeneration, which is hindered by low seed germination percentages. The study was carried
out in three sites representing distinct ecological regions in agrosilvopastoral agroforestry systems where T. brownii trees are naturally distributed in the
drylands of Kenya.
Analysis of the Implementation of the Work Plan and Budget Year 2023 Towards the Value of Budget Performance Evaluation at Surabaya State University
Authors: Sari Tri Diana , Susilawati Nuri , Wahyudi Teguh , Hayati Masita Nur
Published: November 2024

Universitas Negeri Surabaya (UNESA) has been designated as a Legal Entity State University (PTN BH) that manages academic and non-academic activities autonomously, in accordance with Government Regulation of the Republic of Indonesia number 37 of 2022. In line with this mandate, UNESA needs to develop an effective and accountable Annual Work Plan and Budget (RKAT) to ensure optimal governance and performance achievement. However, the Budget Performance Evaluation (EKA) of the RKAT implementation shows a gap between the budget absorbed and the resulting output achievements. This research aims to analyse the implementation of the 2023 RKAT against the EKA score at UNESA in order to identify constraints and propose improvements in budget management. The research method used was descriptive qualitative, by collecting and analysing qualitative data describing phenomena related to budget implementation in 44 faculties/work units at UNESA. The results showed that 45.45% of the faculties/work units had EKA scores in the good category, while the rest were in the fair, poor, and very poor categories, with an average EKA score of 74.54 or the fair category. The findings suggest that optimising the monitoring and evaluation process, as well as adjusting the indicators and output targets in the RKAT, are needed to improve the budget performance of faculties/work units at UNESA.
Development of a Website-Based Project Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting Information System in Community-Based Infrastructure Programs
Authors: Putra I Wayan Kurnia Wiguna , Putera I Gusti Agung Adnyana , Suryantara P I Putu Gustave
Published: November 2024

In the Community-Based Infrastructure Program (IBM) organized by the Ministry of Public Works and Housing (PUPR), there are several programs such as SANIMAS, Sanitation LPK, TPS 3R, and the PAMSIMAS Program, which are distributed across various villages and neighborhoods in Bali with a substantial budget. Consequently, this demands that the Commitment Officer (PPK) and their team effectively monitor and evaluate the programs. Time and personnel constraints and the community’s limited understanding of construction processes and aid management pose significant challenges. In this research, website-based software will be developed that has good functionality and quality, so that it can provide information quickly and accurately to PPK and relevant stakeholders involved in the project. The development of an integrated project monitoring, evaluation, and reporting information system (SIMEPP) for the IBM program was designed and built using the waterfall model development method, on the client side (frontend) built using HTML, CSS, and Javascript, while on the server side (backend) built using the Laravel framework with the PHP programming language, data storage using a relational database management system (RDBMS) namely MySQL database and on the web server side using apache to serve the Laravel application. Testing results indicate that this system meets all established criteria and is reliable for effectively and efficiently supporting project monitoring, evaluation, and reporting. The functionality testing yielded a score of 1 (good), reliability testing achieved a success rate of 99.99%, and portability testing demonstrated that the SIMEPP website functions consistently across various major browsers.
Keywords: Project management, information system, website
The Dominant Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Import Procurement for Construction Projects Using Analysis Relative Importance Index (RII) and Hierarchical Clustering: a Case of Indonesia
Authors: Dewi Anak Agung Diah Parami , Sudarsana Dewa Ketut , Setia Budi Agung
Published: November 2024

In early 2020 in the city of Wuhan, China there was COVID-19 and it spread to most countries such as Indonesia. The impact on the development of construction projects is the procurement of imports. The affected sectors of import procurement include materials, labor, shipping processes, schedules, and mobilization that are directly related to the pandemic COVID-19 which can cause uncertainty in its implementation. So the right import procurement strategy needs to be implemented so that the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic provides benefits for contractors. International trade using imports into Indonesian territory carried out by individuals or companies has 4 general stages, 1) preparation, 2) delivery of goods, 3) arrival of goods in Indonesia, and 4) receipt of goods in the warehouse. Each of these general stages has an impact that needs to be studied by brainstorming with experts. Primary data was collected through questionnaires distributed and 95 respondents were obtained. Primary data is analyzed using the relative important index (RII) and hierarchical clustering analyzed to determine the dominant impact at each stage of import procurement. The results of the analysis which are the dominant impacts on import procurement during the COVID-19 pandemic are that suppliers of imported goods increase prices, increase in shipping prices, delays in the arrival process of imported goods, and damage to goods.
ROMANIA'S PUBLIC DEBT IN THE CURRENT ECONOMIC CONTEXT
Authors: ICHIM Cristinel
Published: November 2024

The public debt expresses the sum of the amounts borrowed by the central public administration,
territorial administrative units and other public entities from natural or legal persons (in the internal market
and on the external market) and remaining to be repaid at a given time. The amount of public debt is a
fundamental indicator for the sustainability of a country's public finances. If public debt is at a very high
level, as a percentage of gross domestic product (GDP), it may signal difficulties in meeting financial
obligations, which can lead to economic instability. In this article we intend to analyse the structure and
evolution of the public debt of Romania motivated by the fact that lately it is recording a significant increase.
In the first part of the paper, we clarified some theoretical aspects regarding public debt by presenting the
notion, forms and indicators of appreciation of public debt. In the second part of the paper, we conducted
the analysis of the evolution and structure of the public debt of Romania based on the official data available
on the website of the Ministry of Finance, Public Debt Section. We note that in the period 2017-30 April
2024, public debt increased almost threefold and gross domestic product doubled. So economic growth has
not kept pace with the growth of public debt. Alarming is not necessarily the size of the public debt or the
percentage it holds in gross domestic product. Most countries use loans to finance various public
expenditures. What we should worry about in Romania is the lack of balance and fiscal discipline that the
governors of our country show year after year.
THE ROLE OF THE INFORMAL ECONOMY ON LOCAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN SOUTH AFRICA
Authors: MAHLANGU Peter Bongani
Published: November 2024

The study's main goal is to find out how South Africa's informal economy contributes to local
economic development. In terms of generating jobs and supplementary income, the informal economy is
significant in South Africa. Participation in national products generates demand for skilled laborers and
provides a low-cost stimulus for the growth and development of human resources. The literature has made
public the significance of the informal economy for economic expansion and job creation in developing
countries' rural and urban areas Growing dissatisfaction among rural and urban officials to draw in more
workers is expected to accompany the unprecedented rate of urban population growth in emerging nations.
The role that the informal economy plays in providing relief from the growing problem of unemployment is
receiving more attention. Despite decades of both tacit hostility and blatant disdain, the informal economy
is important in developing countries. In order to gather information about respondents' experiences with
economic survival, the scholarship conducts in-person interviews with members of the Thembisile Hani
municipality. The study's findings indicate that the rise of the informal economy is threatened by a number
of factors, including capital, infrastructure, appropriate skills, onerous rules, and security concerns.
Furthermore, the study demonstrated that jobs are generated in the un-organized sector to combat poverty
and boost the economy. Moreover, the government's exclusion of informal economy participants from
economic planning procedures necessitates inclusive economic development. To build a bridge between the
unofficial economy and a sustainable LED in the nation, relevant authorities should see to it that the
fundamental knowledge base is expanded and that the informal economy participants have improved working
conditions.
LEADERSHIP AND GOVERNANCE FACTORS IN PROJECT FAILURES: A FOCUS ON COST AND BUDGET MANAGEMENT
Authors: MASIBA Kenneth Vusumzi , XEGWANA Monwabisi Siwakhile
Published: November 2024

Project failures, especially in cost and budget management, challenge various sectors by straining
financial resources, causing delays, and undermining stakeholder confidence. These issues disrupt schedules
and damage organisational reputations, highlighting the need to address underlying causes for improved
project success and sustainability. This paper is aimed at investigating the primary reasons for project
failures, focusing on leadership and governance in managing project cost and budget performance. A
qualitative approach in a form of exploratory design was used, and interviews were conducted with Middle
and Senior Managers (n = 15) in their respective offices. Manual thematic analysis was used to analyses the
data collected. The study found that lack of leadership, lack of stakeholder involvement, poor budget control,
poor budget planning, poor communication, stakeholder dissatisfaction and stakeholder’s engagement are
the primary reason for project failure at Transnet. This paper suggests that Transnet Engineering should
establish leadership development programs for project managers, standardised budget control and planning
procedures to prevent financial overruns and adopt robust communication and stakeholder engagement
framework to improve information flow and stakeholder involvement throughout the project lifecycle. This
research is necessary to bridge the knowledge gap and provide policy and practical actionable
recommendation to address leadership and governance challenges at Transnet.
THE USE OF FOURTH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION DRIVERS TO ENHANCE EMPLOYEE’S PERFORMANCE IN SOUTH AFRICAN MUNICIPALITIES
Authors: NDAMASE Maxhobandile , LUKMAN Yusuf
Published: November 2024

The crucial drivers of change in most industries are the causes of change in the nature of jobs and
they bring different effects to both the public and private sector. These drivers of change have created various
models of change that have positive and negative consequences for skills needed by the government and
labour markets. This study aims to assess the use of Fourth Industrial Revolution drivers to improve employee
performance. The study used a qualitative research approach; data was collected from nine participants
through semi-structured interviews. Participants were approached through a purposive sampling technique.
The collected data was analysed using thematic approach. The results revealed that robotics, automation,
and AI applications in the workplace may increase employee and employer safety. 4IR, when implemented
as an assistant to the employees, not as a replacement, can significantly improve workers’ living standards
and raise income levels, especially for those who are technology experts. Clients have reaped the greatest
benefits of 4IR thus far, not workers, as they now have unrestricted access to the digital world. Drivers of
4IR increase productivity across entire department of municipality, allowing workers to be more effective in
their work by deploying robots, AI, IoT, and automation as assistants and tools. The study recommends that
4IR drivers must be implemented only if adopted as assistance to the employees, not as replacements, thereby
reassuring the audience about the future of work.
IN PURSUIT OF CREDITOR PROTECTION EFFECTIVENESS IN ROMANIAN BANKRUPTCY – EMPIRICAL AND LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS
Authors: ȘUMANDEA-SIMIONESCU Ioan
Published: November 2024

The Romanian legal forums have generated much debate over the not so recent reform of the
Insolvency Law (2014), generally focused on the legislative changes which were put in place in order to
ensure the efficiency of the procedure. As there is little insight into the workings of the actual insolvency
procedure, the present analysis aims to tackle a new perspective on the Romanian insolvency paradigm in
the European and even global context. Thus, we have conducted a file-based study of the bankruptcy
procedures of 100 Romanian companies, under the “new” bankruptcy regime by which we consider the
application of the Romanian Insolvency provisions and their effectiveness in the national context. Our study
offers an insightful look at an insolvency system in which the state, through its agencies, is the main creditor,
therefore the possibility of a fresh start is (almost) inexistent and the main purpose of the liquidator’s actions
is related to capital maximization without consideration to the continuation of the activity of the company.
We conclude our study with a series of suggestions for the improvement of the efficiency of the insolvency
procedure, based on our empirical findings.
BANKING SERVICE RECOVERY STRATEGIES: ENHANCING RELATIONSHIP QUALITY AND BEHAVIORAL INTENTIONS
Authors: ATTIA Abdelkader Ali
Published: November 2024

This study explored the effect of service recovery strategies (apologies, explanations, empathy) on
customer relationship quality and repurchase intentions in the Egyptian banking sector. Data were collected
from a large sample of 517 Egyptian bank customers who experienced service failure through an online
survey. The data was analysed using SmartPLS 4 software, and the results showed that service recovery
strategies such as apologies, explanations, and empathy significantly positively impact customer relationship
quality. Moreover, the results also emphasized the critical role of high relationship quality in enhancing
customers repurchase intentions. Consequently, these findings indicate the importance of banking
organizations systematically adopting service recovery strategies and building strong customer relationships
to maintain satisfaction and repurchase intentions. Furthermore, this study contributes to a better
understanding of the role of service recovery strategies in customer relationship management in Egyptian
banking.
Pengaruh Rasio Profitabilitas dan Economic Value Added terhadap Return Saham pada Perusahaan Sektor Properti & Real Estate yang Terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia Periode 2019-2021
Authors: Butarbutar Hotlan
Published: November 2024

This research aims to determine and analyze the effect of Profitability Ratios and Economic Value Added on Stock Returns in Property & Real Estate Sector Companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the 2019-2021 Period. The variables used in this research, the independent variable (X) consists of the Profitability Ratio which is calculated using Return On Equity (ROE) and Economic Value Added (EVA), as well as the dependent variable (Y) namely Stock Return which is calculated using Capital Gain (Loss) . The sample in this study was obtained using the side purposive method. Based on the specified criteria and data processing process, 14 companies were determined as research samples. The data analysis technique used is multiple linear regression. The results of this research state that Economic value added (EVA) does not have a significant effect on Stock Returns as measured by Capital Gain (Loss). The Profitability Ratio as measured by Return On Equity (ROE) has a positive and significant effect on Stock Returns as measured by Capital Gain (Loss).
The Only Way Out is Through: A Systematic Literature Review of the Intervention Mechanisms for Child Sexual Abuse in Asia
Authors: Adam Ameena , Ahmad Yarina , Kassim Asiyah
Published: November 2024

Child sexual abuse (CSA) persists as a profoundly detrimental public health and human rights concern worldwide. In Asia, weak legal frameworks, cultural stigmas, and fragmented intervention mechanisms contribute to the heightened prevalence of child sexual abuse (CSA). This systematic literature review examines the various intervention mechanisms implemented in several Asian countries, including legal frameworks, community-based programs, and victim support systems. A particular emphasis is placed on the Maldives, in addition to nations such as India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines. The document utilizes case studies and existing literature to emphasize the achievements and deficiencies in combating CSA, and offers policy recommendations for governments, NGOs, and local communities. This review underscores the necessity for integrated, culturally sensitive approaches that engage all sectors of society to effectively address CSA.
Access to Healthcare Services for Cardiovascular Diseases in Bomet County, Kenya
Authors: Kipkemoi Rotich John , Odek Antony , Wanjugu Wachira
Published: November 2024

Purpose: This study investigates the accessibility of healthcare services for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in Bomet County, Kenya, with a specific focus on the relationship between access and economic well-being among households. The research aims to identify key barriers to CVD care, assess the socioeconomic impacts of these diseases on affected families, and explore potential interventions to improve healthcare access and outcomes in rural Kenya.
Methodology: A descriptive design study employing a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. A stratified random sample of 399 households from three sub-counties in Bomet County was surveyed using structured questionnaires. Additionally, 30 in-depth interviews were conducted with CVD patients and caregivers, along with three focus group discussions involving healthcare workers. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and themes.
Findings: The study reveals significant challenges in accessing CVD healthcare services in Bomet County, with only 23.2% of respondents reporting easy access. Financial constraints emerged as the primary barrier, cited by 75.2% of participants. CVD-affected households experienced substantial economic hardship, with healthcare expenditures consuming an average of 42% of non-food household income, compared to 12% for non-CVD households. The study also found that 68% of CVD-affected households faced catastrophic health expenditures. Qualitative data highlighted the emotional and social toll of CVDs on patients and their families, including asset depletion, increased debt, and food insecurity.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: This research enhances theoretical frameworks on health equity and access in resource-limited settings by providing a comprehensive analysis of the interplay between CVD care access, socioeconomic factors, and health outcomes in rural Kenya. The study's implications span policy and practice, advocating for the expansion of universal health coverage to include CVD services, implementation of financial protection mechanisms, and development of community-based care models. Practical recommendations include enhancing CVD screening programs, improving coordination between primary and specialized care, implementing telemedicine solutions, and developing support systems for CVD patients and their families. These insights contribute to both the academic discourse on health disparities and provide actionable strategies for improving CVD care in similar resource-constrained environments.
Integrating AI with Electronic Health Records (EHRs) to Enhance Patient Care
Authors: Gorrepati Leela Prasad
Published: November 2024

Purpose: The investment in Electronic Health Records (EHRs) in the United States has experienced substantial growth over the years, highlighting the critical importance placed on the adoption of digital health solutions within the healthcare system. This white paper explores the integration of AI with Electronic Health Records (EHRs) to enhance patient care.
Methodology: This study discusses the current challenges in EHR usage, the potential of AI solutions, successful case studies, and the ethical considerations and regulatory frameworks necessary for a smooth implementation of AI in healthcare settings.
Findings: The findings include that the combination of artificial intelligence (AI) with Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems presents a powerful opportunity to enhance patient care in the healthcare sector. By utilizing sophisticated AI technologies, healthcare providers can derive meaningful insights from large volumes of health data, which supports more informed decision-making. Utilizing machine learning algorithms can review patient histories, detect trends, and forecast outcomes with impressive accuracy, thereby improving the capability to deliver personalized treatments tailored to each patient's specific needs. Furthermore, AI-driven analytics can simplify administrative processes, reducing the workload for healthcare professionals and enabling them to focus more on patient care rather than administrative responsibilities.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: This article enriches the theoretical perspective on AI's influence in healthcare quality assurance by developing a framework that correlates AI application with improved patient care outcomes. It serves to inform policymakers about the effectiveness of AI technologies, pushing for policies that support their integration in healthcare settings. Furthermore, healthcare providers are presented with best practices for implementing AI solutions that reinforce quality assurance, ultimately aiding in the creation of a safer and more effective healthcare environment.
Factors Influence on E-procurement Adoption in Tea Processing Factories in Sri Lanka
Authors: Bandara Wickrama Arachchillage Ayomi Menaka , Athapaththu Jayani Chamarika
Published: November 2024

Purpose: Information communication technology (ICT) to handle transactions, is widely used across many industries, yet factors influencing its adoption, particularly in tea industry in developing countries like Sri Lanka, have been overlooked. This study aims to identify the factors influencing on digitization of the procurement in tea processing factories in Sri Lanka.
Methodology: The study relies on a quantitative research approach using a survey design. Rathnapura district, was selected as it is the largest law country tea growing district and sample of fifty factory staff members were selected using convenience sampling technique. Data was analyzed by use of the Statistical Package of Social Sciences.
Findings: Questionnaire survey results revealed that user friendliness and top management support have a significant and positive impact on e-procurement adoption while perceived benefits, ICT literacy and environmental factors not having a statistically significant impact on e-procurement adoption.
Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: Study provides recommendation to achieve higher degree of adoption and successful implementation of e-procurement technology among tea processing factories in Sri Lanka.
The Impact of Adopting Sustainable Supply Chain Management Practices on the Performance of Public Sector Organizations in Zambia: A Case Study of Zambia Air Force
Authors: Nambela Namaipo , Kasongo Richard Mwale
Published: November 2024

Purpose: The main objective of this study was to assess the impact of adopting sustainable Supply Chain Management practices on the performance of public sector organizations in Zambia. The study was anchored on three objectives: To identify the main drivers of adopting sustainable supply chain management practices in public sector organizations in Zambia, to establish sustainable supply chain management practices adopted by public sector organizations in Zambia and to determine the challenges of implementing sustainability in public sector supply chains in Zambia.
Methodology: The study adopted a descriptive (qualitative) survey design to assess the impact of adopting sustainable Supply Chain Management practices on the performance of public sector organizations. The population comprised of fifty (50) Zambia Air Force personnel from Procurement, Operations and Finance departments. Survey questionnaire and in-depth interviews were used for data collection. Data was analysed using Excel and thematic analysis was used were data from questionnaires and interviews was summarized, edited, coded, tabulated and analyzed.
Findings: The study concluded that leadership is a significant factor in Sustainable supply chain management practices being implemented by public sector organizations, and if senior managers are supportive of sustainability and incorporate Sustainable supply chain management practices into planning, strategies and goal setting, then the purchasing team will implement Sustainable supply chain management practices.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: The study recommended that Zambia Air Force should make use of identified main drivers of adopting sustainable supply chain management practices, continuously improve sustainable supply chain management practices and should endeavor to overcome the challenges of implementing sustainability in its supply chains.
Access to Healthcare Services for Cardiovascular Diseases in Bomet County, Kenya
Authors: Kipkemoi Rotich John , Odek Anthony , Wanjugu Wachira
Published: November 2024

Purpose: This study investigates the accessibility of healthcare services for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in Bomet County, Kenya, with a specific focus on the relationship between access and economic well-being among households. The research aims to identify key barriers to CVD care, assess the socioeconomic impacts of these diseases on affected families, and explore potential interventions to improve healthcare access and outcomes in rural Kenya.
Methodology: A descriptive design study employing a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. A stratified random sample of 399 households from three sub-counties in Bomet County was surveyed using structured questionnaires. Additionally, 30 in-depth interviews were conducted with CVD patients and caregivers, along with three focus group discussions involving healthcare workers. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and themes.
Findings: The study reveals significant challenges in accessing CVD healthcare services in Bomet County, with only 23.2% of respondents reporting easy access. Financial constraints emerged as the primary barrier, cited by 75.2% of participants. CVD-affected households experienced substantial economic hardship, with healthcare expenditures consuming an average of 42% of non-food household income, compared to 12% for non-CVD households. The study also found that 68% of CVD-affected households faced catastrophic health expenditures. Qualitative data highlighted the emotional and social toll of CVDs on patients and their families, including asset depletion, increased debt, and food insecurity.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: This research enhances theoretical frameworks on health equity and access in resource-limited settings by providing a comprehensive analysis of the interplay between CVD care access, socioeconomic factors, and health outcomes in rural Kenya. The study's implications span policy and practice, advocating for the expansion of universal health coverage to include CVD services, implementation of financial protection mechanisms, and development of community-based care models. Practical recommendations include enhancing CVD screening programs, improving coordination between primary and specialized care, implementing telemedicine solutions, and developing support systems for CVD patients and their families. These insights contribute to both the academic discourse on health disparities and provide actionable strategies for improving CVD care in similar resource-constrained environments.
Research on the Impact of the Development of New Agricultural Business Entities on Agricultural Carbon Emission Intensity
Authors:   School of Economics, ZHANG Shutian
Published: November 2024

Based on the panel data of 30 provinces in China (excluding Xizang, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan) from 2010 to 2022, this article employs spatial fixed-effects models, mediation effect models, spatial econometric models, and other methodologies to examine the impact of the development of new agricultural business entities on agricultural carbon emission intensity. The results indicate that new agricultural business entities significantly reduce agricultural carbon emission intensity. However, there exist notable differences in the mechanisms through which different types of new agricultural business entities influence agricultural carbon emission intensity. Specifically, leading agricultural enterprises and farmer cooperatives notably decrease agricultural carbon emission intensity through pathways such as scale effects, technological progress effects, and industrial structure optimization effects. In contrast, the influence of family farms on agricultural carbon emission intensity is primarily manifested in technological progress effects. Further analysis uncovers that the agricultural carbon emission intensity in a given region exerts a positive spillover effect on that of its neighboring regions. Additionally, the impact of diverse types of new agricultural business entities on agricultural carbon emission intensity differs significantly between major grain-producing regions and non-grain-producing regions. Consequently, this study offers pertinent policy suggestions for mitigating agricultural carbon emission intensity, grounded in the environmental implications of fostering new agricultural business entities.
Evaluation to Independent Innovation Ability of High-Tech Industry in China Based on Efficiency-Scale-Expectation Perspective
Authors:   School of Economics and Management, SUN Bo , SUN Zeyang ,   Glorious Sun School of Business and Management
Published: November 2024

The independent innovation ability indicator of the high-tech industry is decomposed by the inputoutput efficiency of innovation resources, the possession scale of innovation resources, and the expected level of innovation progress, which will evaluate China’s provincial independent innovation ability of the hightech industry. The results show that: ① There are few provinces with strong scientific and technological independent innovation ability in the high-tech industry, and the gap between them is large, while many provinces with weak innovation ability have a small gap with each other and an absolute inferior position compared with strong innovation ability provinces. The high-tech industry in the southeastern coastal provinces has higher profits, a stronger expected innovation level, and a further industry expansion trend, while some border and inland provinces have only limited space for innovation and progress in the short run, and the obvious polarization trend. ②The factor inputs to profit output efficiency in most provinces are roughly synchronized, and the inputs and returns match with each other: a few regions such as Shanghai and Beijing have higher profit output to factor input intensity, and higher input-output efficiency. Some provinces with small-scale high-tech industries, such as Heilongjiang and Guizhou province, have the abnormal phenomenon of “premature aging”, in which the input intensity of innovation resources is low and the return on profits is even lower. ③Deeper research found that the origin of the “premature aging” problem lies mainly in the low technical production efficiency of innovative products, as well as the self-reinforcing spiral between low input-output efficiency and low profit-output intensity.
A New Interpretation of Sensation ———From the External Characteristic Things to Mapping
Authors:   Institute Education Science of Nanchong, LU Tinghui
Published: November 2024

For a long time, in terms of the mental sense of sensation, such as the “chocolate taste” experience of the production of red light experience, people have always believed that the “phase is generated by the mind”, which is the brain and nervous system for the sense of things “endowed” appearance, or produced by the “illusion”. In the sense of equivalent transformation, sensation should be a topological mapping of appearance, in which the appearance of things is sensed by the sensory system and transformed into a code that can be received and processed by the nervous system, to map the representation into an object that can be “read”, and therefore perceived by the subject itself and thus experienced and felt. Such representations are also the “material” of work accessed, edited, or stored by higher mental mechanisms. From a new perspective, this paper discusses the transformation of the object􀆳s appearance in the brain and the mapping representation, as well as the resulting problem of image flow editing.
A Comprehensive Review of the Current Research Status and Analysis of Content changes in Chinese Geography Teaching
Authors:   Zunyi Experimental School Affiliated to Zunyi Normal College, ZHAO Jingxia , ZHAO Wei ,   Zunyi Experimental School Affiliated to Zunyi Normal College, SHE Jianwe ,   Zunyi Experimental School Affiliated to Zunyi Normal College
Published: November 2024

Using CiteSpace software to visualize and explore the core academic journal literature, a global presentation was made of the historical changes in the content research on the theme of geography teaching and learning in China in the new century. It has been observed that the key themes in high school center around secondary school geography teaching, strategy, geography classroom, geography instructional design, and disciplinary core literacy. A notable shift in content research has occurred, evolving from an initial emphasis on classroom design objectives to a focus on nurturing students' literacy and competence. Furthermore, alterations in external learning resources and environments are promoting the integration of geography teaching and learning research with multidisciplinary fields, facilitating utilization studies.
Effect of Feedstocks and Production Methods on Activated Carbon Performance on the Sorption of Pb and Cd from an Industrial Effluent
Authors: Ahmed Ibrahim Adeiza , Ogunyemi Oladotun Victor , Onagun Qudus , Christiana Ladipo Omowunmi
Published: November 2024

This study features the production of activated carbon from hardwood, softwood and their hybrid for the adsorption of Pb and Cd from industrial effluent. The wood wastes (sawdust) were carbonized at 500 °C followed by activation in air atmosphere (physical activation) and H3PO4-impregnation prior to carbonization (chemical activation). The resulting activated carbons (AC) were characterized for surface structural and morphological properties. The activation method impacted the physiochemical properties of the ACs. For instance, the BET surface area was highest for hardwood derived AC obtained by physical activation, while it was the softwood AC for chemical activation pairs. FTIR analysis revealed that both chemically and physically ACs have the requisite functional groups (phenol, aromatics and hydroxyls) for sorption operations; however, H3PO4 creates more oxy-containing functional groups in the chemically ACs, which enhanced their adsorption performance. Hardwood was the feed material controlling the yield and attributes of both physically and chemically produced hybrid AC in the 1:1 mixed feed. All ACs were employed as adsorbents for the uptake of Pb and Cd at different adsorbent dosage levels (50-250 mg/l) and contact time (5-20 mins). The batch adsorption studies showed that Pb and Cd removal rate increased with increasing adsorbent dosages and contact time until equilibrium was reached at 15 mins. Only chemically ACs achieved 100% removal of Pb and Cd from the effluent at optimum dosage amount. The sorption performance of the adsorbents (based on feedstocks) for both metals uptake can be ranked as softwood (C) > hardwood (C) > hybrid (C) > hardwood (P) > softwood (P) > hybrid (P). C and P refer to the chemical and physical activation methods. The experimental data were found to fit into Langmuir adsorption model (R2 = 0.999) and pseudo second-order kinetic model (R2 = 0.999)
Evaluation of iron deficiency anemia during acute infection in children
Authors: Nas Yunus , Bozaykut Abdulkadir
Published: November 2024

Aims: The purpose of this study was to assess changes in infection and iron parameters during infection and at least 4-6 weeks after recovery in children diagnosed with infections, to investigate the impact of infection on iron metabolism and to determine the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia (IDA).
Methods: In this study, 151 patients who presented with fever, were diagnosed with an infection as the source of the fever, had no prior anemia investigations or antianemic treatment, and had no history of recurrent infections or chronic diseases, between September 2005 and October 2005 were included. In addition to specific tests focused on the site of infection, complete blood count, serum iron, serum total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), ferritin, C-reactive protein (CRP), transferrin saturation, and peripheral smear levels were measured at the time of admission and 4-6 weeks after follow-up.
Results: The mean age of the patients was 4.5 ± 3.2 years, and 57.6% (n = 87) of them were male. During the infection, 12% of the cases (n = 18) showed iron deficiency, and 53% (n = 80) were diagnosed with IDA. After infection, iron deficiency was identified in 5% of the cases (n = 7), while IDA was present in 37.1% of the cases (n = 50). A significant decrease in both iron deficiency (12% vs. 5%, p = 0.001) and IDA (53.0% vs. 37.1%, p = 0.001) ratios was observed after the infection. The group with IDA showed a larger decrease in leukocyte and CRP levels compared to the group without IDA, alongside a more marked increase in TIBC levels.
Conclusion: The reduction in iron deficiency and IDA rates following infection suggests that infection may lead to substantial changes in iron metabolism. Monitoring iron parameters during the infection phase in pediatric patients may play a crucial role in distinguishing anemia of inflammation from IDA.
The effect of sodium-glucose linked transporter 2 inhibitor and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist on weight and blood pressure control in an obese diabetic patient: a case report
Authors: Haktanıyan Zekiye Nur , Varlıbaş Artuner , Çifci Aydın
Published: November 2024

Obesity and diabetes are two closely related and often co-occurring clinical conditions that are difficult to treat and full of uncertainties. Moreover, they are often accompanied by another disease that is just as difficult to treat: hypertension. Although the picture may seem complex, pessimistic, and requiring a lot of medication, it is possible to develop a holistic strategy. With the case we have presented, we would like to share our treatment plan focused on the treatment of diabetes and its results and draw attention to the effects of antidiabetic therapies on weight loss and blood pressure control.
Shedding light on allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation success: exploring the relationship between donor vitamin D and parathormone levels and recipient engraftment and stem cell quantity
Authors: Uzun Dicle , Keklik Muzaffer , Eser Bülent
Published: November 2024

Aims: The aim of this study is to investigate whether pre-mobilization serum vitamin D and parathormone levels in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (allo-HCT) donors have an impact on the collected stem cell quantity and engraftment periods in recipients.
Methods: Data from 35 donors aged 18 and over, who served as donors in allo-HCT performed between 2019 and 2021 at
Erciyes University Faculty of Medicine, Bone Marrow Transplantation and Stem Cell Treatment Center, were retrospectively
analyzed. Donors with known pathologies related to the parathyroid gland, unrelated and bone marrow-derived stem cell
donors were excluded from the study. Donors were grouped as low and high based on serum vitamin D and parathormone
levels. The possible relationship between these values and total product CD34+ cell count, neutrophil engraftment time, and
platelet engraftment time was assessed.
Results: It was found that recipients of donors with high vitamin D levels had significantly earlier platelet engraftment days
compared to donors with low vitamin D levels (p=0.026). In donors with high vitamin D levels, it was observed that the
peripheral CD34+ cell count was lower, and the total product CD34+ cell count was higher, although there was no significant relationship (p>0.05). Although recipients of donors with high vitamin D levels had earlier neutrophil engraftment times, no significant relationship was found (p=0.29). A moderate negative correlation was found between platelet engraftment times and vitamin D levels. There was no statistically significant relationship between parathormone levels and stem cell quantities and engraftment times.
Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency in allo-HCT donors before mobilization was observed to prolong platelet engraftment times in recipients. Therefore, we recommend correcting vitamin D levels in donors before allo-HCT.