bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vesicouterine adherence is independent of the degree of villi implantation: A retrospective case-control study
Authors: Valentina Cheria , Ariani Grace , Priangga Bayu , Adu-Bredu Theophilus K , Duvekot Johannes J. , Aryananda Rozi Aditya
Published: June 2024

Background: The presence of differences between the clinical and histological classification of PAS hinders an accurate depiction of the extent of the maternal condition. None of the existing histological classification criteria are based on and correlate with surgical difficulty, morbidity risk, or maternal outcome. Methods: We conducted a case-control study of data of all PAS cases between January 2017 and December 2021 at Dr. Soetomo General Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia. Uterine dehiscence and any cases with incomplete data were excluded from the study. After surgery, the area of abnormal adherence was marked using small pins for histological analysis. The histopathology specimens were immersed in using Hematoxylin Eosin (HE). PAS cases were divided into three groups depending on the depth of villi: accreta, increta and percreta. Primary outcome was the vesicouterine adherence. Secondary outcomes were intraoperative topography, and surgical outcome. Results: Three hundred sixty-three cases were included for analyses. Our cohort comprised of 99 accreta cases, 246 increta cases and 18 percreta cases. Estimated blood loss was significantly higher in the high-grade PAS (increta and percreta) groups than in the low-grade PAS (accreta) group (2851.0 + 2437.7 mL vs 1970.8 + 1315.8 mL; p < 0.001). Sixty-five (17.9%) cases of vesicouterine adherence were observed. This was associated with higher odds of caesarean hysterectomy (adjusted odds ratio [Adj OR] 30.77 (95% CI 12.52–75.62; p < 0.001) and bladder injury (Adj OR 7.19; 95% CI 1.94–26.64; p = 0.003) but not estimated blood loss (> 2500 mL) (Adj OR 1.06; 95% CI 0.52–2.16; p = 0.87). Cases with bladder injury had a higher estimated blood loss (p = 0.012) and concomitant caesarean hysterectomy (p < 0.001) compared to those without bladder injury. The depth of villi implantation was associated with higher blood loss (> 2500 mL) (p = 0.046) but not bladder injury (p = 0.442) and vesicouterine adherence (p = 0.503). Conclusions: Vesicouterine adherence is not associated with the depth of villi implantation, but rather with the presence of fibrosis between the bladder and uterus. These adhesions also correlated to iatrogenic bladder injuries.
Exploring the causal association between inflammatory cytokines and pancreatic cancer: a two-sample Mendelian randomized study
Authors: Huang yingjie , Yin Zhijie , Han Wei
Published: June 2024

Objectives
Research has revealed an association between inflammatory cytokines and the development of pancreatic cancer (PC). Nevertheless, the relationship between cause and effect remains uncertain. Our objective was to conduct a more comprehensive evaluation of the causal connection between 41 circulating inflammatory cytokines and PC.
Methods
In this research, we examined the correlation between inflammatory proteins and PC using two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. The exposure data for genetic variation in 41 circulating inflammatory cytokines were obtained from Genome-wide Association Study (GWAS) data of individuals of European ancestry. The corresponding genetic association for PC was derived from FinnGen's GWAS data as outcome data. This research mainly utilized the IVW method, which is based on inverse variance weighting.
Results
The analysis of IVW findings indicated that SCF is associated with an increased risk of pancreatic cancer (OR: 1.39, 95% CI: 1.02–1.88; p = 0.03). On the other hand, IL-6 exhibited a beneficial safeguarding effect on pancreatic cancer (OR: 0.73, 95% CI: 0.53–0.98; p = 0.04). Analysis revealed no heterogeneity or horizontal multipotency. Other inflammatory factors did not show a clear causal link to PC.
Conclusions
This study revealed a cause-and-effect relationship between specific inflammatory factors and PC, which may provide new directions for identifying the pathogenesis of PC and effective treatment strategies involving inflammatory factors.
Dynamical behavior and density function of a stochasticSIR model with saturated incidence rate under Ornstein-Uhlenbeck process
Authors: Yang Ying , Wang Kai yuan , Zhang Jing wen , Zhang Guofang
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we discuss a stochastic SIR model with saturated incidence rate, which perturbed by log-normal Ornstein-Uhlenbeck (OU) process. The stability of the disease-free equilibriumand endemic equilibrium of deterministic system is initially established. Subsequently, the existenceof unique positive solutions of stochastic systems can be proved through the construction of suitableLyapunov functions. The extinction of stochastic SIR model are demonstrated by introducing thethreshold $R_0^e$. Furthermore, we study the persistence of stochastic SIR model as well as derive itsstationary distribution, and the probability density function around the quasi-endemic equilibrium iscomputed. Finally, theoretical findings are validated through numerical simulations.
Perceived Impacts of the Expanded Child Tax Credit Cessation Based on Family Income Level
Authors: Adams Elizabeth , Krovi Annika , Berquist Abigail , Mosher Peyton , Dugger Roddrick , Brickhouse Tegwyn , Bean Melanie
Published: June 2024

The 2021 Expanded Child Tax Credit (ECTC) lifted millions of children out of poverty and drastically improved well-being. These impacts were particularly salient for families with lower income among those who received the full ECTC benefit. This study gathered lived experiences on the ECTC cessation and explored differential impacts across income levels to inform discussions around policy restoration. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with parents who had a child (2-12 years) who received the full ECTC. Interviews occurred in May 2022 after the ECTC ended. Changes in financial security and health were assessed. Families were classified as having lower vs. higher income (LI; n=19 vs. HI; n=19) corresponding to household income below vs. above 200% of the Federal Poverty Line. Inductive analysis and constant-comparison methods generated themes on similarities/differences between groups. Results indicated families with LI experienced severe financial constraints and greater negative emotions, after the ECTC ended. Many reduced spending, budgeted, accepted financial support from family/friends, and delayed credit card payments. More families with HI reported the ECTC provided a financial buffer placingthem in a more secure position to meet current needs. Both groups reported negative impacts from inflation coinciding with the ECTC ending and minimal changes in their income tax return. Families overwhelmingly reported a desire for the ECTC to continue, despite experiencing different degrees of impact due to these financial changes. Families with LI faced greater hardships after the ECTC ended. Differences across income highlight the need for ECTC restoration, particularly for families in severely under-resourced circumstances.
Detection of A(H5N1) influenza virus nucleic acid in retail pasteurized milk
Authors: Tarbuck Natalie , Jones Jeremy , Franks John , Kandeil Ahmed , DeBeauchamp Jennifer , Miller Lance , Fabrizio Thomas , Woodard Karlie , Cochran Hannah , Foreman Bryant , Owsiany Madison , Lowe James , Webby Richard , Bowman Andrew
Published: June 2024

The detection of A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b influenza A virus (IAV) in dairy cattle in the U.S. presents a significant threat to the economy, animal well-being, and public health. Preliminary reports of a high viral load in milk from infected cattle sparked concern regarding the safety of the commercial milk supply in the U.S.1–3 Through a convenience sampling of pasteurized milk purchased from retail stores across the United States, we detected A(H5N1) viral nucleic acid in 36.3% of samples. Viral sequencing confirmed the presence of genetic material from A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b influenza A viruses. Despite the detection of relatively high levels of viral RNA, no evidence of viable virus was found following inoculation of MDCK cells, embryonated chicken eggs, or mice with positive retail milk samples. This study highlights the wider distribution of states affected by the virus than suggested by official reports, provides supporting evidence for the efficacy of pasteurization, and suggests the value of retail milk as a means to monitor continued viral evolution.
Wafer-scale monolayer organic single-crystalline films and arrays toward high-performance organic electronics
Authors: Li Rongjin , Yao Ximeng , Ma Chunli , Sun Lingjie , Wu Xianshuo , Shen Xianfeng , Wang Zhaofeng , Yang Shuyuan , Gao Pichao , Zeng Dong , Deng Wei , Jie Jiansheng , Yang Fangxu , Hu Wenping
Published: June 2024

Two-dimensional molecular crystals (2DMCs) stand out as a distinguished class of materials for next-generation flexible electronics, owing to their molecularly thin thickness and impeccable single-crystalline structure. However, scaling up their production without compromising the pristine single-crystalline nature has posed substantial challenges for widespread application. Herein, we introduce a novel seeded dip coating (SDC) technique that produces wafer-scale, monolayer 2DMC films with outstanding charge carrier mobility and remarkable uniformity. The SDC technique induces seeds in situ and effectively separates the nucleation and growth stages, thereby overcoming the paradoxical requirement for supersaturation of both steps. Utilizing the SDC technique, a large-area monolayer 2DMC OFET array was realized, showcasing a leading average mobility of 13.0 cm2 V− 1 s− 1 and an ultra-small mobility coefficient of variation (CV) of 7.5%. The SDC technique offers a universal and scalable pathway for producing larger-area monolayer 2DMC films, paving the way for flexible electronic applications.
Neutrophil single-cell analysis identifies a uniquely primed subset and provides insights into predicting relapse of autoimmune small vessel vasculitis
Authors: Nishide Masayuki , Nishimura Kei , Matsushita Hiroaki , Kawada Shoji , Shimagami Hiroshi , Metsugi Shoichi , Kato Yasuhiro , Kawasaki Takahiro , Tsujimoto Kohei , Edahiro Ryuya , Shirai Yuya , Itotagawa Eri , Naito Maiko , Yamamoto Yuji , Matsukawa Kazuki , Omiya Ryusuke , Okada Yukinori , Hattori Kunihiro , Narazaki Masashi , Kumanogoh Atushi
Published: June 2024

Single cell analysis in autoimmune disease has largely focused on mononuclear cells and diseased tissues, leaving the diversity of neutrophils poorly understood. To identify the dynamics of neutrophil autoimmunity, we focus on an autoimmune disease characterized by abnormal neutrophil activation, anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis. Single-cell transcriptome and surface proteome analyses are performed on 179,664 peripheral white blood cells from treatment-naïve patients with new-onset microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) and healthy donors. Neutrophils are classified into seven subsets, two of which are significantly increased in MPA patients: immature neutrophils (Neu_Immature) and neutrophils characterized by type II interferon signature genes (Neu_T2ISG). The Neu_T2ISG subset shows increased expression of interferon (IFN)-γ response genes, many of which are identified as differentially expressed genes in neutrophils from MPA patients compared to those from healthy donors. Trajectory and cell–cell interaction analyses identify Neu_T2ISG as a uniquely primed subset that differentiates from mature neutrophils upon stimulation with IFN-γ and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. The combined effect of these cytokines simultaneously exposes myeloperoxidase and Fcγ receptors on the neutrophil cell surface and promotes ANCA–induced neutrophil extracellular trap formation. Case-by-case analysis indicates that patients with a high proportion of the Neu_T2ISG subset are associated with persistent vasculitis symptoms. In a larger cohort using stored sera, serum IFN-γ levels at disease onset significantly correlate with susceptibility to disease relapse. Our findings identify neutrophil diversity at the single cell level and bridge the data to a clinically applicable biomarker for predicting relapse in small vessel vasculitis.
Rezivertinib versus Gefitinib as First-line Therapy for EGFR-mutated Locally Advanced or Metastatic NSCLC Patients (REZOR): A Multicenter, Double-blinded, Randomized Phase 3 Study
Authors: Shi Yuankai , Guo Yanzhen , Li Xingya , Wu Lin , Chen Zhaohong , Yang Sheng , Bi Minghong , Zhao Yanqiu , Yao Wenxiu , Yu Huiqing , Wang Ke , Zhao Wenhua , Sun Meili , Zhang Liangming , He Zhiyong , Lin Yingcheng , Shi Jianhua , Zhu Bo , Wang Lijun , Pan Yueyin , Shi Huaqiu , Sun Shenghua , Wen Meiling , Zhou Rui , Guo Shuliang , Han Zhigang , Yi Tienan , Zhang Hua , Cang Shundong , Yu Zhuang , Zhong Diansheng , Cui Jiuwei , Fang Jian , Gao Jinghua , Li Manxiang , Ma Rui , Jiang Mingyan , Qin Jianwen , Shu Yongqian , Ye Feng , Hu Sheng , Li Wen , Lu Hong , Yang Minglei , Yi Shanyong , Zhang Yan , Fan Yun , Ji Hongbo , Liu Zheng , Wang Haitao , Zhou Xiangdong , Zhang Don , Peng Jirong , Shen Haijiao , Gao Feng , Wang Tingting , Zhou Anqi
Published: June 2024

REZOR is a multicenter, double-blinded, randomized phase 3 study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of rezivertinib (BPI-7711) and gefitinib as first-line therapies in patients with EGFR mutated locally advanced or metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The study included eligible patients from 50 hospitals across China. Those who had been histologically or cytologically confirmed NSCLC with EGFR exon 19 deletion or exon 21 L858R mutation by central laboratory were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive once daily either rezivertinib 180 mg or gefitinib 250 mg. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) evaluated by blinded independent central review (BICR), which was significantly superior in the rezivertinib group than the gefitinib group (19.3 versus 9.6 months, HR = 0.48, P <��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������
Analysis of factors influencing the prognosis of thrombolysis patients with acute cerebral infarction in advanced age
Authors: 杨 国正
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the prognosis of patients with acute cerebral infarction (ACI) thrombolysis in advanced age and its influencing factors.
METHODS: Information about patients with acute cerebral infarction (ACI) in the Department of Neurology of Jiangsu Province Subei People's Hospital from August 2018 to July 2023 was retrospectively analyzed, and patients' baseline data were collected.1) They were grouped according to the 3-month mRS scores and divided into good prognosis (n=67) and poor prognosis groups (n=98). Logistic regression was used to analyze the factors affecting patients with acute cerebral infarction at advanced age. (ii) The advanced age thrombolysis group was divided into good prognosis (n=41) and poor prognosis group (n=44). Logistic regression was used to analyze the influencing factors of the senior acute cerebral infarction thrombolysis patients. (iii) The patients with poor prognosis were divided into thrombolysis group (n=44) and non-thrombolysis group (n=54) to explore the differences between them.
RESULTS: NIHSS score, age, urea nitrogen, and diabetes mellitus were the influencing factors for the prognosis of patients with thrombolysis for cerebral infarction in advanced age.
CONCLUSION: More attention should be paid to NIHSS score, age, urea nitrogen level, and the presence of diabetes mellitus in patients with acute cerebral infarction thrombolysis in the advanced age with a view to improving the patients' prognosis.
Hydrogeochemical Fingerprints of Groundwater in Crystallizine Terrain of South-Western Nigeria
Authors: Afolabi Olubukola
Published: June 2024

A total of 63 representative water samples were collected from 50 hand-dug wells and 13 boreholes in the study area from December to January before the onset of rainy season. Two sets of samples were collected from every location; a set of the samples was acidified with two drops of nitric acid (10% by volume) for cations determination while the other was not acidified. Physico-chemical parameters (temperature, total dissolved solutes, electrical conductivity and pH) of the water samples were determined in-situ using a multimeter-probe. The water samples were analyzed for cations and anions using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry, Flame Photometry Emission and titrimetric methods. Results obtained were analysed using descriptive statistics, standard hydrochemical plots and irrigation indices. The results showed that physical stable parameters such as TDS ranged from 301.00-1753.00 mg/l, EC76.00-998.00µS/cm, Temperature 28.50–31.10°C and pH 5.60–10.00; The concentration of ions (mg/l) such as Na+ ranged from 2.60–22.50, K+, 2.50–16.30, Ca2+ 5.30–18.50, Mg2+, 1.28–34.70, SO42−, 7.10–25.70, HCO3−, 15.30-192.50, Cl−, 18.20-102.80 and NO3−, 0.00-5.60. The physico-chemical parameters revealed that the water samples are suitable for domestic usage with little exception of a few locations with high Mg. The dominant water types in the study area were calcium-chloride-type and mixed calcium-magnesium-chloride-type. The controlling mechanisms and processes of the groundwater were largely dominated by rock-water interactions (weathering) and reverse ion exchange. The geochemical signatures of the water showed that the water was under the influence of organic matter and CO2, and that the water was rich in Mg2+ but depleted in Na+.
The Impact of Governance and Economic Factors on Biocracy in the Committed Countries in COP28
Authors: Ronaghi Marzieh
Published: June 2024

Biocracy refers to a system of governance and decision-making that prioritizes the well-being and health of living systems, including ecosystems, species, and human communities. Biocracy promotes holistic, participatory, and adaptive management, integrating science, traditional knowledge, and collective decision-making. The goal is to cultivate a mutually enriching relationship between humans and the natural world. As a result, all human actions have an impact on Biocracy. This study covers annual data from 2010 to 2022 for a group of member countries of the COP28 with the percentage of emissions reduction needed to meet the 1.5 degree Celsius target by 2030 , among current top emitters and employs the Tobit Panel model with a limited dependent variable (LDV). The primary economic variables that substantially influence Biocracy are GDP growth, foreign investment, inflation rate, employment, and trade-related variables (exports and imports) and governance. The results indicate that the governance index and imports variable have the most significant positive effect on Biocracy and the elasticity of governance has the largest impact on Biocracy among all the variables studied. The study's objective is to identify strategies to enhance Biocracy without hindering economic growth, with an emphasis on the role of good governance.
JEL Classification: C21 · F30 · F43 · G10
Investigating barriers and enablers to the routine provision of HIV PrEP in community pharmacies in London
Authors: Alter Marsha , lakhani Shivali , Alaa Aos , Karki Manisha , Riboli-Sasco Eva , El-Osta Austen
Published: June 2024

Background
The UK's integration of Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) into community pharmacies presents a promising avenue for enhancing HIV prevention. Despite its effectiveness, PrEP's accessibility remains hindered by various barriers within community settings. In this study, we aimed to explore the perspectives of pharmacy team members regarding the barriers and facilitators to the routine provision of HIV PrEP in UK community pharmacies, as well as their recommendations to mitigating these challenges.
Methods
A mixed-method study utilising an online survey and semi-structured interviews with community pharmacists and non-pharmacist team members across the UK.
A convenience sample of 110 pharmacy team members participated in the study, including both pharmacists and non-pharmacist. Two pharmacy technicians and eight pharmacists took part in semi-structured interviews.
Data collection involved a cross-sectional online survey and semi-structured interviews. The survey assessed demographic characteristics, knowledge and attitudes towards PrEP provision, while interviews explored in-depth perceptions, experiences and recommendations.
Results
A significant proportion of respondents expressed a lack of confidence and knowledge regarding PrEP, with training identified as a critical need for facilitating PrEP provision. Additionally, the study highlighted the potential of community pharmacies to increase PrEP accessibility due to their geographical reach and the trust placed in pharmacists.
Conclusion
The study highlights the necessity for targeted training programs and public health campaigns to equip community pharmacies for effective PrEP provision. Enhancing pharmacists' competencies and public awareness could significantly impact HIV prevention strategies in the UK.
Efficacy and safety of classical herbal formula Xiao-Yao-San in depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Ya-Ting , Wang Xiao-Le , Zhang Yi
Published: June 2024

Introduction:
Xiao-Yao-San (XYS), also Hsiao-Yao-San, a traditional Chinese medicine formula, has been widely demonstrated to relieve depression effectively in clinical trials. However, the results aren’t conclusive. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of XYS for depression in clinical randomized controlled trials, we conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis.
Methods
We searched for the available electronic databases before October 2022. We also performed the quality assessment, data extraction, and analysis of the trials that were included using the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. Twenty-eight randomized trials with 2256 patients met the inclusion criteria and entered the final systematic review.
Results
The meta-analysis results showed that: 1). Compared with antidepressants, XYS had a better efficiency in improving clinical comprehensive effect while having similar efficiency with antidepressants in reducing Hamilton Depression Scale scores. Besides, XYS had fewer adverse events than antidepressants; 2) Compared with antidepressants, XYS plus antidepressants can significantly improve the clinical comprehensive effect, decrease Hamilton Depression Scale scores, Clinical General Impression Scale scores, and Treatment Emergent Symptom Scale scores with fewer side effects.
Conclusion
XYS may efficiently treat depression alone or combined with antidepressants, and it is also safer than most antidepressants. However, there were still some limitations in the meta-analysis due to low methodological quality; thus, more long-term, randomized, and double-blinded clinical trials are needed in the future.
Understanding Cryptocurrency Market Dynamics: An Efficiency Perspective
Authors: Hong  , Jinyao
Published: June 2024

One of the main problems facing the world community is the question of how effective this currency is and if its use is appropriate and lawful, as well as the question of how well Bitcoin fits into the hypothesis of market efficiency. This article discusses the main aspects of Bitcoin cryptocurrency use, as well as its existence and use within the framework of the hypothesis of market efficiency. In order to determine the relationship between Bitcoin and Ethercoin, the stationarity of the variables was tested with classical unit root tests (ADF, PP) and structural break unit root tests (Lee & Strazicich). Although the variables were integrated to the same degree, there was no long-term relationship between them according to the Hatami-J (2008) cointegration test and market was determined that active in strong form (Guliyev, 2022). The shortrun asymmetric causality relationship between Bitcoin and Ethercoin the was revealed by Hatemi-J (2012) test. In addition, as part of the article, a large-scale study of domestic and foreign scientific literature on this problem was carried out.
Critical Factors Influencing the Performance of Public Housing Construction Projects in Myanmar
Authors:   School of Civil Engineering and Technology, Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology, Thammasat University, Pathum Thani, THAILAND, Nwal Su Su , Panuwatwanich Kriengsak ,   School of Civil Engineering and Technology, Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology, Thammasat University, Pathum Thani, THAILAND, Naing Myint ,   Department of Urban and Housing Development, Ministry of Construction, Nay Pyi Taw, MYANMAR
Published: June 2024

Public housing is a basic need for low- and middle-income families. Unfortunately, in many developing countries, housing construction projects often fall short of achieving the required performance levels. This problem occurs for many reasons: low budget, corruption, poor governance, inadequate policy and the lack of modern technologies used in construction. As a developing country, Myanmar is facing these challenges in public housing construction projects. Although many studies have investigated the factors influencing the performance of construction projects, there has been limited research focusing on public housing construction, particularly. Myanmar plans to provide one million homes by 2030. However, the country faces significant challenges, including political instability and the COVID-19 pandemic. This study attempted to identify the critical factors influencing the performance of public housing construction projects in Myanmar (PHCPM) amid the current changing circumstances. A survey was conducted to collect data from 86 experienced personnel on 51 factors identified in the literature review. The dataset was then analysed using a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and frequency-adjusted important index (FAII) analysis method. The factors were ranked according to FAII scores and 10 critical factors were identified and discussed. The results of this study can help inform individuals responsible for taking action to mitigate the impact of the critical factors identified on improving the performance of PHCPM.
Bibliometric Analysis of the Journal of Construction in Developing Countries
Authors:   Faculty of Engineering, Universidad Libre Seccional Pereira, COLOMBIA, Torres Daniel Aristizábal , Herrera Ana Sofía Ayala ,   Faculty of Engineering, Universidad Libre Seccional Pereira, COLOMBIA, Cano Jhon Mario Gómez ,   Faculty of Engineering, Universidad Libre Seccional Pereira, COLOMBIA
Published: June 2024

The Journal of Construction in Developing Countries (JCDC) is an open-access journal indexed in Scopus that specialises in Building and Construction and Civil Engineering. This article proposes an analysis of the history of publications in the journal that has not been done so far. In this document, we seek to contribute to the knowledge by answering the question: What is the journal’s most influential countries, authors and institutions? A bibliometric analysis is carried out through bibliographic information obtained from Scopus and scientometric tools, which includes annual productivity, authors, countries and the most relevant institutions. The mapping of scientific production visualises the networks of co-occurrence and co-authorship, thus identifying the collaboration networks between authors, countries and institutions. The growth in the number of publications and citations was evidenced over time, which has allowed the journal to be among the best engineering journals in Malaysia and ranked 117 in the Building and Construction area worldwide.
Improvement of Risk Management in Cost Estimation in the Building Construction Industry in Uganda
Authors:   Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Kyambogo University, Kampala, UGANDA, Draleti Gerald , Sengonzi Ruth ,   Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Kyambogo University, Kampala, UGANDA, Kakitahi John ,   Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Kyambogo University, Kampala, UGANDA
Published: June 2024

The cost performance of construction projects is a crucial success factor. However, risks in construction projects make exact budgetary requirements challenging to forecast accurately, resulting in underestimation and overestimation. Inaccurate cost estimates could further result in unnecessary financial loss to project stakeholders and the loss of reputation and trustworthiness of construction professionals. In Uganda, risk factors are either ignored or subjectively taken care of by simply allowing a contingency figure ranging from 0% to 10% of the project cost. However, this method is sometimes unreliable and difficult to justify to project owners. Therefore, there is a need for a reliable and justifiable risk-based cost estimation method. The current study aimed to improve risk management in cost estimation in the building construction industry in Uganda. The specific objectives were to establish the risk factors, assess the effects of the risk factors and develop a reliable model that can be used for risk-based cost estimation in the building construction industry in Uganda. The study adopted a mixed-method approach by utilising quantitative and qualitative research methods. The collection of data was done using a self-administered questionnaire and an interview guide. The data was first sorted, coded and entered for analysis using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and Microsoft Excel. The risk factors in cost estimation were identified through a detailed literature review. The study revealed that the top five risk factors influencing cost estimation were: cost of materials, inflation, fraudulent practices and kickbacks, incomplete scope definition, and incomplete design and specification. The study concluded that the risk factors with the most severe effects on cost estimation were inflation, proficiency in estimating, cost of materials, incomplete design and specification, fraudulent practices and kickbacks. The study proposed a model developed using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP). The study recommends more research on the efficiency and effectiveness of risk-based cost estimation models.
Technological a priori and Communicative Action in Kurt Vonnegut’s Player Piano
Authors: Arıtürk Mete Han , Büyüktuncay Mehmet
Published: June 2024

This article examines the state of extreme mechanization in modern industrial societies, which leads to a strict separation of the various spheres of life and ultimately to the exclusion of the human element. The philosophers of the Frankfurt School, Herbert Marcuse and Jürgen Habermas in particular, have rigorously analyzed the inherently ideological function of technology in late capitalist societies. In Player Piano, Kurt Vonnegut’s critical depiction of the extremely technologized and automated social world in a near future America slightly predates and even heralds the above-mentioned critical theorists’ analyses of the ideological nature of technology under corporate capitalism. This study scrutinizes how the technocratic state in Vonnegut’s novel utilizes technology to pacify and disempower the masses, challenging the notion that technology is merely a value-free accumulation of know-how. The devalued human subject and dehumanized society depicted in Vonnegut's anti-utopian narrative are discussed with reference to Marcuse’s notion of 'one-dimensional society' and Habermas’s theory of 'communicative action' to provide the critical framework for the analysis of the impoverishing and colonizing effects of technological rationality on the lifeworld.
Çağdaş Sanatta Salt Sanat Nesnesi Olarak Yves Klein Antropometrileri
Authors: Yağmur Önder , Karamanaoğulları Mehmet Arif
Published: June 2024

Sanat, tarihsel ve kültürel süreçte belli kuralları, formları ve normları olan geleneksel bir anlayışa sahipti. Ancak 19. ve 20. yüzyıllara gelindiğinde ortaya çıkan modernizm ve avangart hareketler, sanatı bu geleneksel anlayıştan koparmıştır. Bu kopuş; sanatçıları, sanat nesnesi ve malzemesi bakımından yenilikçi ve deneysel olana yöneltmiştir. Marcel Duchamp’ın sanat için özel üretilmiş nesne anlayışından kopardığı “Hazır Nesne” fikri, bu arayışlara öncülük etmiştir. Geleneksel sanat anlayışında daha çok mitolojik ve estetik güzelliğin temsili olan beden, çağdaş sanatla nesnel bir ifade biçimine dönüşmüştür. Çağdaş sanatta bedenin, duyusal ve fiziksel deneyimleri aktarmada çok etkili bir araç olduğu söylenebilir. Öncü ve yenilikçi bir sanat anlayışına sahip olan Yves Klein, nesnel bir ifade biçimi olarak insan orantılarının saf ölçümleri olan Antropometri adını verdiği bir dizi çalışma yapmıştır. 1950 sonları ve 1960 başlarına tarihlenen Antropometri çalışmaları, sanatın sınırlarını zorlamış ve sanatın geleneksel pratiklerine bir karşı duruş göstermiştir. Klein, Antropometri serisinde, çıplak kadın bedenlerini “International Klein Blue” rengine boyayayarak beden üzerinden sanat eserleri üretmiş ve bedeni salt bir sanat nesnesi olarak kullanmıştır. Klein, bedeni ve beden hareketlerinin bıraktığı izleri, sanatının bir aracı olarak görmüş, evrensel ve mistik bir beden-sanat ilişkisi kurmuştur. Bedenin bir sanat nesnesi olarak kullanılması kadın bedeninin metalaştırıldığı eleştirilerini de beraberinde getirmiştir. Bu çalışma, Klein’in Antropometrilerindeki bedenlerin sanatın sınırlarını aşarak estetik bir ifadeye nasıl dönüştüğünü, beden-sanat ilişkisinin temsili üzerine düşünmemize olanak sağlayacaktır.
Orta Çağ Avrupası’nda Bir Kimlik İnşası: Germen Asıllı Otto Hanedanlığı’nın Bizans Üzerinden Romalılaşma Çabaları
Authors: Ertaş İlker
Published: June 2024

Bu çalışma Germen asıllı bir Sakson krallığı olan Otto Hanedanlığı’nın Orta Çağ Avrupası’nda Bizans İmparatorluğu ile kurdukları evlilik ittifakı ekseninde elde etmeye çalıştıkları Romalılık kimliğine odaklanmaktadır. Zira elde edilen veriler Otto Hanedanlığı hükümdarlarının Romalılaşma sürecinde önceliklerinin dini açıdan siyasi ve toplumsal otoritelerini meşrulaştırmak ardından Romalı kimliği ile siyasi liderliklerini sağlamlaştırarak, imparatorluklarını genişletme hedefinde olduklarını göstermiştir. Kendilerini bu amaca adadıkları andan itibaren buldukları her fırsatı değerlendirme gayretinde olan Otto Hanedanlığı, Bizans ile sürekli temas halinde olmuşlardır. Özellikle Bizans İmparatorları VII. Konstantinos ve II. Nikephoros Phokas döneminde bir türlü nihayete erdirilemeyen akrabalık girişiminin, İmparator I. Ioannes Tzimiskes döneminde başarıyla sonuçlandırılmasıyla Romalılaşma hedeflerine bir adım daha yaklaşmışlardır. Bizans ile Theofano üzerinden kurulan akrabalık Otto Hanedanlığı’na, Batı Roma topraklarında siyasi meşruiyet açsısından önemli katkılar sağlamıştır. Diplomasi yoluyla gerçekleştirilen bu evlilik sonrası Bizans imgeleri Otto Hanedanlığı’nın yönetim anlayışlarında ve sanatsal faaliyetlerinde daha fazla ön plana çıkmaya başlamıştır.
Pozitif Psikoterapi ve Kabul ve Kararlılık Terapisi Açısından Değerler Kavramının İncelenmesi
Authors: Topçu Feyza , Dinç Mehmet
Published: June 2024

Değerler, kişiyi istediği hedeflere yönlendiren, kişinin eylemlerine rehberlik eden inanç ve bilişsel yapılardır. Kişinin davranışlarına yön vermesi nedeniyle değerler kavramı başta postmodern yaklaşımlar olmak üzere psikoterapi ekollerinde son yıllarda çalışılmaya başlanmıştır. Bu sebeple bu çalışmanın temel amacı, değerler kavramının pozitif psikoterapi (PPT) ve kabul ve kararlılık terapisi (KKT) açısından nasıl ele alındığını ve psikoterapide ne şekilde kullanıldığını incelemektir. Çalışmanın genel amacı doğrultusunda, her iki yaklaşımın insan doğasına olan bakış açısı ele alınmış ve değerler bağlamında benzer ve farklı yanlarına vurgu yapılmıştır. Her iki yaklaşımda da kişinin anlamlı bir hayat yaşaması adına değer odaklı eylemleri planlamanın belirleyici bir rolü olduğu görülse de pozitif psikoterapi ve kabul ve kararlılık terapisini birbirinden ayıran bazı hususlar vardır. En temel noktalardan bir tanesi, pozitif psikoterapide danışanın iyi ve mutlu bir hayat için olumlu duyguları olumsuzlara kıyasla daha sık yaşaması vurgusudur. Kabul ve kararlılık terapisinde ise olumsuz yaşantıyla birlikte değerler doğrultusunda bir yaşamın sürdürülebileceğidir. Diğer bir nokta ise danışan değerler doğrultusunda adım atarken farklı yapıların devreye girebileceği göz önünde bulundurularak danışana ek beceriler öğretilmesidir. Pozitif psikoterapiye kıyasla kabul ve kararlılık terapisinin bu yapıları ele alması daha bütüncül bir yaklaşım olarak görülmüştür. Bu doğrultuda, ruh sağlığı uzmanlarının değerler ile çalışırken danışanın içsel deneyimlerine yönelik engellerini de açığa çıkararak incelemesi önem arz etmektedir.
Percepción de los estudiantes de turismo de la Universidad de Guadalajara (México) sobre la intención emprendedora
Authors: Contreras Cueva Angélica Beatriz , Macías Álvarez Pamela
Published: June 2024

Este estudio analiza como perciben los estudiantes de turismo y gestión de negocios gastronómicos del Centro Universitario de Ciencias Económico Administrativas (CUCEA-Universidad de Guadalajara) el emprendimiento, se sustenta con la Teoría de Acción Razonada. Los datos se aplicaron a una muestra de 185 estudiantes analizados con ecuaciones estructurales (SEM), entre los resultados destaca que la actitud del alumno ejerce mayor influencia sobre la intención, además, se ofrece información de las características de los potenciales emprendedores, se deja abierto el análisis sobre las líneas de actuación para la instrumentación de políticas públicas que fortalezcan al centro universitario en vías de una universidad emprendedora.
Producción de conocimiento en instituciones de educación superior: Un análisis comparativo entre grupos de investigación de artes y humanidades e ingeniería
Authors: Osorio Vélez Beatriz Elena , Zuñiga Miranda Samir , Restrepo Medina Liliana Patricia
Published: June 2024

Debe plantearse como una tarea desde los grupos de investigación identificar y concebir su producción académica desde y para la transferencia y la apropiación del conocimiento en su relación con actores como el estado, la empresa y la sociedad, posibilitando el bienestar, el desarrollo y la transformación social, este debería ser en un sentido estricto, una de las metas para los grupos de investigación. Comparar la producción académica de los diferentes grupos de investigación, permitiendo conocer, identificar y cuantificar cómo se difunde el conocimientodesde las diferentes disciplinas (Ingenierías y las artes y humanidades). Como hallazgo se observa un crecimiento de las investigaciones, así como en producciones bajo diversas tipologías que abordan la solución de problemas en estas áreas y perfilan su objeto de conocimiento declarado.
Relación entre concepciones de educación inclusiva y acciones que inciden en la convivencia escolar
Authors: Trujillo Tabares Víctor Daniel , Palacio Peralta Nilva Rosa
Published: June 2024

Este artículo muestra los resultados de una investigación realizada con agentes educativos como sujetos políticos, de una institución educativa del municipio de Turbo, donde se tuvo como objetivo develar la relación entre las concepciones de educación inclusiva y las acciones que inciden en la convivencia escolar, a partir del paradigma cualitativo, enfoque crítico social, método de Investigación Acción Pedagógica y se destaca entre las          conclusiones, cómo la educación inclusiva y la convivencia escolar son procesos interrelacionados, que pueden lograrse desde el reconocimiento, respeto y valoración de la diversidad como condición inherente a la humanidad.
Representaciones sociales de hechos históricos como barreras psicosociales para la construcción de la paz
Authors: Velásquez Marisol , Piedrahita Michell , Villa Gómez Juan David , Insuasty Rodríguez Alfonso
Published: June 2024

En el proceso de construcción de las representaciones sociales de hechos histórico (RSHH) construidas por ciudadanos del común del Valle de Aburrá (Colombia) se pudo evidenciar como a partir de valencias de poder, desde élites dominantes que hacen uso de la retórica política, los medios de comunicación y la educación básica, se producen y reproducen versiones estereotipadas de la historia. Se posiciona así una memoria hegemónica que se reproduce y desde la cual se prefabrican actores como única causa de la violencia y se exculpan otros actores que incluyen a las mismas élites, políticos y al Estado, quienes se auto determinan como víctimas y no como actores del conflicto armado en Colombia. Así, estas RSHH terminas configurando y objetivando un enemigo absoluto con el cuál es imposible una negociación política, que se traduce en una barrera para la construcción de la paz y la reconciliación en Colombia.
Ciclismo de ruta como fenómeno sociocultural en el departamento de Nariño (Colombia): perspectiva de los ruteros
Authors: Burbano Galeano Leidy Liliana , Paz Benavides Juan David , Pinta Pinta Oscar Giraldo , Ruíz Rodríguez Iván Jairo Alberto
Published: June 2024

Este artículo describe el ciclismo de ruta como fenómeno sociocultural en el departamento de Nariño desde la perspectiva de sus principales actores: los ruteros. Se construyó desde el paradigma cualitativo, enfoque histórico hermenéutico y método fenomenológico. Los resultados exponen que, tanto las causas como las funciones y su correspondencia, son los elementos constitutivos del ciclismo de ruta en el departamento de Nariño y, concluye que la influencia familiar y social son las causas que promueven la práctica de este deporte y, que el bienestar personal, familiar y social son las funciones que le atribuyen los ciclistas a su práctica ciclística.
Teatro popular y duelo colectivo en Bojayá (Chocó-Colombia)
Authors: Torrez Perez Natalia , Díaz Facio Lince Victoria Eugenia
Published: June 2024

El valor del arte popular, particularmente del teatro, es relevante en los procesos de elaboración del duelo colectivo de comunidades afectadas por el conflicto armado colombiano, en especial los derivados de la masacre del 2002 en Bojayá. Lo primero que permite comprender es que las diversas manifestaciones de la violencia vividas en el territorio, en especial la masacre y el desplazamiento, tuvieron un impacto disruptivo que desestructuró profundamente la vida cotidiana, la identidad y el mundo de supuestos de los habitantes. En concreto, causó pérdidas múltiples de orden material y simbólico, cuyos duelos han sido muy complejos por las dinámicas de la guerra colombiana que impidieron los rituales funerarios tradicionales para despedir a sus más de ochenta muertos y fragmentó a la comunidad dispersándola en otros municipios.
Una mirada a la Educación Superior Inclusiva en Latinoamérica
Authors: Sánchez Moncayo Claudia Nayibe , Bejarano Londoño Lina Marcela , Toro Carlos Andres , Londoño Vásquez David Alberto
Published: June 2024

Esta revisión tuvo como objetivo reconocer las investigaciones y las experiencias que surgen en las Instituciones Educativas Superiores en relación con la diversidad e inclusión. Los resultado exhortan a revisar y trascender los enfoques que actualmente rigen el diseño de los procesos educativos en la Educación Superior, especialmente, aquellos dirigidos al restablecimiento de derechos a las poblaciones vulnerables, en aras de fortalecer la educación inclusiva y garantizar el derecho constitucional a una educación con calidad que dignifique y permita la participación plena de estos colectivos, reflejándose en una implementación de programas que posibiliten la inclusión educativa en las Universidades.
Círculos de la palabra con líderes vecinales: sistematización de la experiencia
Authors: Betancurth Loaiza Diana Paola , Sánchez Palacio Natalia , Rivera Mejía Paula Tatiana , Castro Carvajal Adriana Marcela , Holguín Zuluaga Juan Alejandro
Published: June 2024

Se realizó una sistematización de la experiencia de: “círculos de la palabra” con líderes barriales del municipio de Villamaría, Caldas, Colombia entre 2016 y 2019, con base en los lineamientos de los autores: Jara, Ghiso y Verger. La experiencia permitió identificar tres hitos: “conocernos, el acompañamiento y los sueños”, “sujetos de conocimiento” y “la experiencia construida socialmente”. Los círculos de la palabra se configuraron para dar a los líderes de las comunidades un espacio donde tener voz y promover la reflexión movilizadora, construir tejidos y crear redes sociales de apoyo para conseguir un buen vivir.
Creencias Sociales sobre la paz: entre deseos imposibles, una paz imperfecta y obstáculos ciudadanos a la paz negociada en Colombia
Authors: Oliveros Juan Fernando , Villa Gómez Juan David , Insuasty Rodríguez Alfonso , Jaime-Salas Julio Roberto
Published: June 2024

El presente texto tiene como objetivo comprender creencias sociales sobre la paz y la negociación política en el marco del conflicto armado colombiano en 304 ciudadanos de 12 municipios del país, para determinar de qué manera algunas de ellas se constituyen en barreras psicosociales para la construcción de la paz y la reconciliación en Colombia. Pudo concluirse que los participantes tienen un núcleo de creencias sociales en torno a la paz, referida como tranquilidad, armonía, orden, seguridad, ausencia de conflicto y serenidad interior, que enlaza con conceptos propios de la ‘paz liberal’ en tanto el Estado es quien mantendría este orden y seguridad; niegan a su vez, la posibilidad de disenso, contradicción, oposición, protesta y rebeldía, aun cuando este orden establecido produzca situaciones de injusticia y exclusión, puesto que primaría el mantenimiento de esta ‘paz’. En este contexto quienes se oponen al Estado o al poder establecido serán considerados enemigos y se legitima su señalamiento, estigmatización, exclusión y eliminación; además, se cierran puertas para la negociación política con actores armados que enarbolen una contradicción a estos sistemas sociales, puesto que, son considerados ‘delincuentes’ y portadores de maldad, al alterar la tranquilidad, la seguridad y la armonía, configurándose así unas barreras psicosociales para la paz.
Estrategias de Comunicación Popular en la Defensa de Territorios con Influencia de Proyectos Minero-energéticos en El Oriente y Suroeste Antioqueño
Authors: Acevedo Marín Juan D , Ortiz Mejía Maira A , Arias Mejía Juan Camilo
Published: June 2024

Emergen diversas formas alternativas de comunicación como la radio comunitaria, podcasts radiales, publicaciones en redes y comunicados. Herramientas que han servido a las comunidades del oriente y suroeste antioqueño y a las organizaciones COA y el MOVETE, para sustentar sus causas en el tiempo, hacer masiva la tarea comunicativa y llevar a más personas una invitación a la acción en favor de la defensa del territorio. Esto con la ventaja que las estrategias de comunicación popular permiten a muchos actores, pues no solo devienen en consumidores y receptores de la información que otros producen, sino también creadores y emisores de su propia información, la cual emerge de las dinámicas de su cotidianidad, contribuyendo a cerrar la brecha comunicativa existente entre los medios de comunicación masiva y las comunidades excluidas
Metas familiares desde la perspectiva individual en hogares con percepciones de funcionalidad familiar diferentes en Bucaramanga y el área Metropolitana
Authors: Guzmán Pacheco Juan Felipe
Published: June 2024

La funcionalidad familiar es la que logra concebir el progreso general de cada uno de sus integrantes; así como un estado de salud, protección y afectividad; siendo el reflejo de la comunicación, de la cohesión y adaptabilidad, la familia se concibe como ese espacio de protección y desarrollo. El presente estudio tuvo como propósito describir las metas familiares desde la perspectiva individual en hogares con percepciones de funcionalidad familiar diferentes en Bucaramanga y el área Metropolitana, se logra por medio de un estudio cualitativo con diseño metodológico de la fenomenología interpretativa. De acuerdo con los resultados, en relación con las metas a corto plazo, las familias quieren salir de deudas, mejorar sus ingresos y en las metas inmateriales los participantes quieren mejorar la comunicación en con los miembros de su familia, ser más unidos. A largo plazo en las metas materiales tener casa propia y en las inmateriales crear empresa, ver a sus hijos unidos, compartir más tiempo y ser felices.