bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving Lean engagement through utilising improved communication, recognition and digitalisation during the COVID-19 pandemic in JLR's powertrain machining facility
Authors: McKie M.G. , Evans A.N. , Jones R.
Published: February 2024

During the COVID-19 Pandemic, many companies around the world continued to implement and drive adherence to Lean principles. However, there are a number of key challenges each company would face when implementing Lean, one of those main challenges being workforce engagement. One way of measuring the engagement of Lean principles is by assessing adherence. In manufacturing organisations around the world, there are differing motivations, and these can be dependent on a number of aspects, such as culture and organisational structure. Therefore, it is imperative to understand employees' motivations in relation to the adherence to Lean principles. This 3-year study of Lean principles assesses the adherence in Jaguar Land Rover's (JLR) Powertrain Machining Facility. It also examines methods of instigating a new recognition process, developing an improved communication method, and creating digital solutions to training issues. The main achievement of the research is improving the adherence to the Lean principles, improving adherence to standardised working practices, and improving the utilisation of problem-solving and continuous improvement tools.
Suspension of disbelief history confronted with the challenges of metamodernism
Authors: Blažević Zrinka
Published: February 2024

Since the awareness of the overall global crisis expanded due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in the Ukraine at the beginning of the third decade of the 21st century, it seems that it is the right moment for the establishment of a new episteme - Metamodernism. Therefore, it might be rightly expected that, despite the proverbial disciplinary conservativism and inertia, history will not able to escape inclusion in its pervasive epistemic matrix. After a general overview of the genealogy, ontology, epistemology, methodology and axiology of the new "post-apocalyptic" philosophy of Metamodernism, creative impulses for the metamodernistic transformation of the historical science will be scrutinized. At the same time, a presumption will be questioned whether the embodiment concept might be the most efficient incentive for the redefinition of the epistemological status of the historical actor as well as for the transdisciplinary opening of history towards natural and biomedical sciences. In addition to this, the main epistemological propositions of the history of the body, history of emotions and sensory history - as historical subdisciplines most prompt to embrace the concept of embodiment - will be presented. As a conclusion, it will be argued that only due to the historical transcendence of the embodied historical actor, Metamodernism might achieve its proclaimed historical mission: "a rebirth of the human mind and spirit and a reintegration of the earlier forms of culture and civilisation".
World and global history
Authors: Ćurčić Petar
Published: February 2024

In recent decades, the world and global history have become very current topics in the community of historians, especially with the process of globalization and intensive international scientific cooperation. Serious reflections on the effects of the old Western-centric understanding of human history, reorganizations of university curricula and interest of the scientific research centres in related topics, as well as the launch of several prominent journals in the field of global and world history in the United States, the United Kingdom and the People's Republic of China, gave impetus to new disciplines. The aim of this paper is to present: a) an overview of the development of world and global history (starting with models in ancient Greek and Chinese historiography and on to the XXI century, and concluding with new aspirations in the community of global historians); b) the basic and most represented directions in the last few years (especially considering the presence of economic topics, on the one hand, and attempts to constitute global intellectual history, on the other); c) some open polemics about the role of empires in the world history (especially within the framework of American historiography) and the function of subaltern studies in shaping history, which will overcome the legacy of Eurocentrism.
From eavesdropping on clerks to researching international society developments in the history of international relations
Authors: Marić Vukašin
Published: February 2024

The paper analyses historical developments in the discipline of the history of international relations, from its origins in the nineteenth century until present day. It provides an overview of numerous approaches and topics that have driven its development over the previous two centuries. The article focuses on the evolution of the history of international relations in its American and Western European variations. In the first part, the origin and the activity of diplomatic history are examined in the context of the emergence of professional historiography. At that time, diplomatic history narrowly focused on studying the political and diplomatic relations between states and was the most prominent topic in political and intellectual discourse. Its significance further intensified following the First World War, when the topic of war guilt emerged as one of the major interwar political issues. In the second part, the study discusses the evolution of diplomatic history into a broader international history, emphasizing social, economic and ideological aspects. The shift happened as a result of the rising interest in social and economic history following World War II and manifested itself throughout specific discussions in various countries. It was also marked by increased uneasiness and self-criticism that historians of international affairs have become prone to. Following that, the paper explores the impact of new theoretical approaches and thematic concerns, that emerged as a result of the cultural turn, on the practice and the shape of international history. It now includes not only interstate relations, but also a diverse set of actors such as international organizations, multinational corporations, non-governmental organizations and networks of researchers, scientists and experts, all of which have been studied through the lenses of ideas, ideology, gender, beliefs, language, memory, value and perceptions.
Education of church artists at the Academy for Fine Arts and Conservation of the Serbian Orthodox Church (1993-2023)
Authors: Čairović Ivica
Published: February 2024

Education of Church artists at the Academy for Fine Arts and Conservation of the Serbian Orthodox Church in Belgrade has been going on for thirty years (1993-2023), under the auspices of the Holy Synod of Bishops of the Serbian Orthodox Church. The article presents relevant facts about the education of Church artists - icon painters, fresco painters, mosaicists, sculptors, conservators and restorers. The wealth of correlative knowledge and skills and the multidisciplinarity within the curricula of the Academy of SOC add to the recognition of the uniqueness of this higher education institution in the educational system of the Republic of Serbia.
University teachers' conceptions of teaching and their approaches to teaching
Authors: Milutinović Jovana
Published: February 2024

Within the scope of discussing possibilities for improving the quality of higher education teaching, ongoing since the 1990s, intensive research has been evident in literature, regarding university teachers' conceptions of teaching and their approaches to teaching, and in that respect, also the issue of pedagogical training and advanced professional training of university teachers. In view of the fact that different terms have been used in literature to describe the diverse ways in which teachers conceptualise higher education teaching, the purpose of this paper is to gain a profound understanding of the different conceptual and terminological definitions in this area of academic research. In this process, special attention has been directed at analysing the research findings presented in literature regarding the dilemma of whether university teachers' conceptions of teaching and their approaches to teaching are relatively stable over time, or represent relational constructs that develop in response to a specific context or the teaching situation. Apart from discussing the scope of the meaning of the constructs of university teachers' conceptions of teaching and their approaches to teaching, an additional objective of the research has been to analyse the research findings presented in literature, relating to the relationship between these two constructs. It has been established that the findings presented in literature corroborate the idea that university teachers' conceptions of teaching are the basis for their teaching practice. The conclusion is that understanding beliefs about teaching and finding appropriate ways to encourage university teachers' awareness of them, and their self-assessment, is of essential importance, because this creates the fundaments for adopting scientifically based conceptions of teaching and introducing adequate changes in teaching practice in order to support students' learning in a better way.
Influence of the concept of social epistemology on the metatheory of librarianship
Authors: Drmanac Mirko
Published: February 2024

This paper will consider the formation of the theoretical-methodological concept of social epistemology as an attempt to determine the scientific status of librarianship in the conditions of the scientific-technological revolution and under the influence of the sociological ideas of the Chicago School. The emergence of the first computers, new information media and electronic networks was accompanied by the fear that the book would be overcome and that librarianship would be a superfluous and anachronous activity. Jesse Hauk Shera, the founder and leading supporter of social epistemology tried to offer it as an alternative to the classical theory of librarianship. The analysis of Shera's and other relevant works offers insights about this concept, although conceived within theoretical librarianship, not being complementary to traditional professional specifics. Although today social epistemology is accepted as a philosophical theory of cognition, in the context of librarianship and information science, it has not solved the problem of the scientific and professional identity in the conditions of modified technological reality.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on right-wing extremism
Authors: Đorić Marija
Published: February 2024

This paper researches the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the security segment of the society, with a special emphasis on right-wing extremism. The author's main goal is to research the modalities in which the pandemic impacted the extreme right-wing in Serbia and worldwide. On the basis of this comparative analysis, the author will provide an assessment of the similarities and differences between the domestic and foreign right-wing scene, as well as present new trends in this field. A special part of the paper will be dedicated to online recruitment and novelties used by these extremists for radicalization of new members. Apart from the previously known impact of WPM (White Power Music), it is noticeable that fight clubs and online propaganda have a prominent role in recruitment of new members. Given that the pandemic caused a forced physical distancing among people, the work of extremists intensified online, within which an extremely large role of Telegram app was detected. Due to encryption of messages, Telegram is quite interesting not only to right-wing, but to all other extremists as well. A crucial role in the spread of right-wing propaganda was especially given to blogs, such as 4chan, 8chan, 8kun, ShitChan, NeinChan, which are specific due to the fact that they are mostly used by extreme right-wing, given that they do not forbid hate speech. The conclusion is that the value system of the extreme right-wing has remained the same, but the action, as well as the recruitment methods, are indeed changing.
The multidimensionality of everyday experiences of internationalisation using collaborative autoethnography (CAE): Narratives of belonging and crossing borders of two female sociologists
Authors: Moran Lisa , Kovačič Tanja
Published: February 2024

This paper elucidates approaches to collaborative autoethnography (CAE) drawing on two female academics' experiences, who live in Ireland. As Ellis et al., (2011) state, autoethnography 'seeks to describe and systematically analyse personal experience to understand cultural experience'. We as two female sociologists, retrospectively and selectively analyse experiences with international academic life; borders, cultural norms, and identity. We refer to belonging to explore academic mobility within the contexts of our lives. We explore relationships between enabling/constraining factors contributing to our engagement with knowledge production and belonging to new academic environments outside our places of origin. Tanja's account documents her doctoral journey from Slovenia to Ireland, learning the host country's cultural fabrics to engage with academia, leaving and coming home, which did not mean returning to 'the known'. Lisa's narrative displays synergies to Tanja's illuminating emotions upon entering the UK in 2017, when antiimmigrant sentiment was heightened. However, her experiences of returning during COVID-19 disrupted her imaginaries of coming home. Written in a conversational style, we explore commonalities/differences in experiences of international academic careers. This paper illuminates CAE for opening conceptual avenues into multi-layered dimensions of academics' experiences, illuminating its significance for international Higher Education policy-making.
Recognition of behavioral problems in preschool children from the educator's point of view
Authors: Milenović Hadži , Jeremić Biljana , Markov Zagorka
Published: February 2024

Introduction. The research problem is formulated in the form of research questions: can educators recognize problems in the behavior of preschool children, and are they sufficiently competent to undertake planning actions related to the prevention and suppression of externalized and internalized problems in the behavior of preschool children? Objectives. The goal of the research was to determine whether educators can recognize problems in the behavior of preschool children and take measures to overcome these problems. Methods. The research was conducted in January 2023 on a sample of 124 educators from the areas of Bačka and Banat. The teacher's assessment of the recognition of problems in the behavior of preschool children was examined with the Scaler - RBDCPA-EP constructed for the purposes of this research (a = .822). It consists of three subtests: 1) recognition of behavioral problems in preschool children; 2) informing parents and professional associates about observed problems in the behavior of preschool-age children; and 3) taking action to narrow down behavioral problems. Results. The results of the research show that problems in the behavior of preschool-age children can be predictive factors that show behavioral disorders in adolescence. Conclusion. It is concluded that, besides the primary role of educators, it is necessary to undertake a series of planned actions so that preschool institutions provide optimal support for children with behavioral problems and their families.
Revisiting and integrating residents' perceptions towards tourism development in urban areas
Authors: Busisiwe-Mazibuko Ellen , McHunu Ayanda , Nyikana Siyabulela
Published: February 2024

This study sought to determine residents' perceptions of tourism development and the subsequent impacts of tourism in South Africa. Tourism's impacts on residents have been a topical issue in existing literature given that they can offer guidance for planners in terms of development trajectories. This is because tourism is widely associated with both negative and positive impacts on residents, depending on the destination's life cycle and other factors. Thus, Soweto, as South Africa's most visited township and a place where tourism is seen as a strategic tool for socioeconomic development, was selected as an ideal case study for this research. A positivist, quantitative research approach was employed in targeting residents (n=241) using a systematic random sampling method. Data was analyzed through IBM SPSS 24, and key findings revealed that, on the whole, residents are involved directly or indirectly in tourism and generally support its development. Additionally, it was found that residents have largely positive feelings towards tourism and its development in the area although nuances were there regarding tourism recently highlighting the economic gaps between the poor and the rich. The government was also criticized for failing to increase education about tourism among residents so that they could effectively benefit from it. It was also suggested that tourism compromises the authenticity of heritage and cultural activities in the area whilst also resulting in the increased prices of goods and services for locals.
Phân tích tham số tần số của dầm Sandwich đa nhịp có cơ tính biến thiên hai chiều
Authors: Vũ Nguyên Thành
Published: February 2024

This paper presents the frequency parameter analysis of bi-directional functionally graded (2D-FG) multi-span sandwich beams by using a high order deformation theory. The beams consist of three layers, the upper face of the sandwich beam is made of ceramic, the lower face is made of 2D-FG and the core is made of 1D-FG. The material properties of the beam are assumed to vary continuously in the thickness and longitudinal directions by a power-law distribution. The frequency parameter of the sandwich multi-span beam is computed with the finite element method. The accuracy of the derived formulation is confirmed by comparing the obtained results with the published data. The effects of material and number of spans on the frequency parameter of the beam are examined and discussed.
Kết hợp công nghệ GNSS và toàn đạc điện tử quan trắc chuyển dịch ngang bờ mỏ lộ thiên
Authors: Nguyễn Văn Xuân
Published: February 2024

In our country, the surface mining industry currently holds a particularly significant position in the nation's industrialization and modernization process. Minerals exploited using open-cast mining technologies contribute significantly to the country's economy, including coal, copper, iron, bauxite, and more. However, deep coal mining operations often involve substantial bank heights, multiple geological faults, extensive rock layers, and the need for blasting. Some mines are situated in areas with weak ground conditions, resulting in significant ground subsidence, deformations, and open pits, posing a substantial safety risk to personnel, equipment, infrastructure, assets, and the surrounding environment. Therefore, monitoring the horizontal displacement of mine banks in the process of mining is highly necessary. Based on an analysis of the current mining practices, topographical and geological conditions at open-pit coal mines, this article proposes feasible solutions to enhance the effectiveness of monitoring and managing bank displacement at these mining sites.
Application Of The Classroom Coexistence Program "Let's Be Friends" For Social Skills In Ecuadorian Adolescents
Authors: Vera Patricia Yolanda Santos , Tezén Angélica Lourdes Niño , Alva José Melanio Ramírez , Merino Carlos Eduardo Juárez , Villar Miguel Ángel Saldarriaga , Caamaño Marcela Katerine Yulán
Published: February 2024

In adolescence there are a series of physical, psychological and social challenges, this stage is the beginning of adulthood so that coexistence with others helps the constitution of the personality, in this sense the objective was to determine the influence of the classroom coexistence program "Let's be friends" in the improvement of social skills in Ecuadorian adolescents,  the results determine that the experimental group presented higher values compared to the control group in the post test situation for social skills, also the p value between groups is 0.009 < 0.05. The application of the program was effective, so the application of further research oriented to psychological intervention specifically in social skills training, expression of emotions and relationship with adults is discussed.
Social Media Narrative and its Prosumers: A Systematic Review from 2016-2023
Authors: Carmen Llontop Castillo María del , Marled Maldonado Sulluchuco Alison , Luis Gómez Díaz, Rubén
Published: February 2024

The general objective of this systematic review of the scientific literature was to gather scientific evidence on the treatment of social media narrative and its prosumers. The review considered original publications in journals indexed in Scopus, Scielo, and Dialnet. Two types of analysis were developed, in order to eliminate possible biases. The quantitative analysis allowed us to locate the countries, languages, categorical treatment, results, and other aspects where the most research on transmedia narrative is being conducted. In this way, the scope of the topic in the scientific publications reviewed was established. On the other hand, by means of qualitative analysis, after the screening process, the approach of different perspectives was established: where the research on social media narrative in content sharing spaces leans towards, evidencing an inclination towards Discord. The search for the characterization of narrative content in social media was also carried out, and finally, the conception or treatment of the prosumer's role in the creation of content. It is concluded that the studies where the prosumer of digital platforms is related to a social media narrative should be increased to build and sustain the transcendental role of this as a value for the loyalty of various content in social networks, i.e., be responsible for generating virtual spaces where reliable content is expected to be disseminated.
Information needs factors affecting pain experience among patients with cervical cancer stages III and IV at the Kenyatta National Hospital: A descriptive phenomenology study
Authors: OJWANDO JOEL   OOKO , Maina Dorcas Waithira , Nafula Esther , Cheserem Eunice
Published: February 2024

Background: Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in Kenya.Patients present late when the cure is unattainable and have an impaired quality of life (QoL). Pain is theworst and most common cause of impaired QoL. Poor control is due to a focus on the physical aspect ofpain only rather than the holistic approach that also considers the nonphysical factors, includingpsychological, social, spiritual, economic, and information needs aspects of pain. Information need isdefined as a state in which one perceives a gap between information and knowledge available to solve aproblem. There is inadequate information exchange between health care providers and cervical cancerpatients in Kenya, with such patients reporting that inadequate information prolonged their suffering asthey sought diagnosis and treatment. There have been recommendations that communication guidelinesbe developed, and communication training skills be developed in a culturally relevant way. Differences incultural and socioeconomic contexts may impede this goal.Objective: To explore information needs factors among patients with cervical cancer stages III and IV atthe Kenyatta National Hospital.Methods: Qualitative research using a descriptive phenomenological study involving fifteen in-depthinterviews and five focus group discussions was conducted.Results: This study revealed poor methods of breaking bad news, conflicts in the disclosure of bad newsto patients, inadequate information on the investigations and procedures needed, and doctors’unavailability to provide detailed information, especially those that require seeking money from relatives.Conclusion: Information needs remain a gap affecting pain experienced by cervical cancer patients.
A snapshot of the landscape of endometrial cancer in Kenya: Implications of recent updates in pathological classification
Authors: Wawire Jonathan , Chesikaw Olvia
Published: February 2024

Background: The incidence of endometrial carcinoma is rising worldwide, partly due to the risingprevalence of obesity. From a diagnostic pathology perspective, it is a heterogeneous disease with avaried range of histomorphological features and is prone to poor interobserver reproducibility. This oftenhas downstream effects on treatment protocols and patient outcomes. The current WHO Classification ofTumors of the Female Genital Tract recommends the incorporation of histology, immunohistochemistry,and molecular testing where possible in the classification of endometrial carcinoma into clinically relevantsubtypes. In Kenya, access to ancillary testing is limited and prohibitively expensive, negatively affectingaccurate tumor classification. In addition, there are limited local data on the various histologic subtypes ofendometrial carcinoma and their respective clinical outcomes.Objectives: To review the classification of endometrial carcinoma as defined by the current WHOClassification contextualized with local clinical, demographic, pathology, and outcome data from twotertiary referral centers in Kenya.Methods: Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded blocks (FFPE) of 123 cases of endometrial carcinomasbetween 2012 and 2020 were retrieved from the Aga Khan University and Moi Teaching and ReferralHospitals. The clinical history and follow-up data were abstracted. Hematoxylin and eosin sections werereviewed and 11 immunohistochemical markers (MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, ER, PR, ARID1A, P16,PTEN, napsin A, and p53) were determined, and analyzed to arrive at a consensus diagnosis.Results: Six endometrial carcinoma subtypes: endometrioid (68 cases, 55%), serous (32 cases, 26%),carcinosarcoma (15 cases, 12%), clear cell (5 cases, 4%), mixed carcinoma (2 cases, 1.5%), anddedifferentiated carcinoma (1 case, <1%) were reported. The median age of presentation was 63 years(range of 34-90 years) and the median body mass index (BMI) was 27.4 kg/m2. Staging data wereavailable in 95 cases, of which 64 (67%) were in the early stage at presentation. Follow-up data wereavailable in 70 patients with a median follow-up time of 18 months. Recurrences were reported in 11cases, 5 of which were of the serous subtype. Of the 26 patients whose status was known at the time ofthe conclusion of the study, 7 died of the disease.Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive review of the clinical and pathologicalprofiles of various subtypes of endometrial cancer in Kenya with follow-up and outcome data using awide array of immunohistochemical markers for accurate classification as per the WHO classification.
Retroplacental hematoma: A case report
Authors: Muchiri Tung'ani , Wanjiku Grace , Mumenya Lydia , Mutie Esther
Published: February 2024

Background: Retroperitoneal hematomas during pregnancy arising from ovarian vessels are rare. Thiscondition is usually associated with hemorrhagic shock and can lead to serious maternal-fetal morbidityor mortality. Carrying a pregnancy to term when the condition is diagnosed in early pregnancy istherefore not guaranteed.Case presentation: A 39-year-old para 4+1 presented at 26 weeks of gestation with a 2-day history ofright lower abdominal pain after a fall on her farm two weeks before admission. She was anemic, andabdominal ultrasound revealed a hypoechoic mass in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen, which,upon explorative laparotomy, turned out to be a large nonexpanding zone III retroperitoneal hematoma.Conservative management without opening the hematoma was performed, and she was serially imagedto assess the etiology and to rule out any further bleeding. The patient carried the pregnancy to term anddelivered vaginally. Postpartum exploration of the abdomen during tubal ligation revealed resolution ofthe hematoma.Discussion: Retroperitoneal hematomas can occur spontaneously or can be caused by blunt orpenetrating trauma. Patients mostly present with abdominal pain, hypovolemia, or anemia. Fordescriptive purposes, the retroperitoneum is divided into three zones: central, perirenal, and pelvic. Forspontaneous or blunt trauma hematomas in the pelvic zone, conservative management without openingthe hematoma is advised.Conclusion: Retroperitoneal hematoma should be a differential diagnosis in a patient presenting with anacute abdomen during pregnancy. Although associated with morbidity and mortality during pregnancy,patients with this condition can still carry their pregnancy to term and deliver normally.
Vaginal foreign bodies in pediatric population - presentation, diagnostic challenges, and role of vaginoscopy: A case series
Authors: Wambugu Justus , Warfa Khadija
Published: February 2024

Background: Vaginal foreign bodies (VFBs) in the pediatric population pose diagnostic and management challenges. This is due to the usual difficulty in obtaining an appropriate history, difficulty in conducting a vaginal examination, and the fallibility of conventional imaging modalities in picking most of the vaginal foreign bodies. In prepubertal who present with abnormal vaginal discharge or vaginal bleeding, the diagnosis of a vaginal foreign body should be considered, and appropriate care should be provided. Vaginoscopy is an excellent diagnostic and therapeutic modality for these cases. 
 
Case series: Between 2018 and 2023, 6 children aged between 3 and 6 years underwent vaginoscopy at our institution, having presented with diverse vaginal symptoms. The mean age was 4.5 years. Three presented with vaginal bleeding, two had recurrent vaginal discharge, and one had a history of trauma to the genitalia. There were no cases suspicious of sexual abuse. All except two had a normal external genital examination, with one having a small excoriation on the labia and the other having superficial perineal injuries due to trauma. All six cases had intact hymens. Vaginoscopy was performed using a 4-mm scope. Vaginal foreign bodies of varying size and consistency were retrieved from three patients. One patient had inflammatory changes on the proximal anterior vaginal wall. Two had normal findings. All 6 children tolerated the procedure well, with an excellent response to treatment.  
Conclusion: Correct diagnosis and management of pediatric vaginal foreign bodies is challenging compared with the adult population. A high index of suspicion is necessary for any young girl presenting with vaginal bleeding or abnormal vaginal discharge. Vaginoscopy is a safe and efficient diagnostic and therapeutic procedure for vaginal foreign bodies in the pediatric population.
The Impact of an educational intervention on the knowledge of bilateral tubal ligation (BTL) among women attending antenatal and family planning clinics in Bomet county: An interventional study
Authors: Ngigi Lydia , Githae Francis , Nthusi Jonathan
Published: February 2024

Background: Bilateral tubal ligation (BTL) is a highly effective contraceptive method with more than 99%efficacy in preventing pregnancy. Its uptake remains low in Sub-Saharan Africa at 1.6%. The KenyaHealth and Demographics Survey 2014 indicated that almost half of the married women did not desirefurther childbearing. The low acceptance of BTL as a contraceptive method in this region has beenattributed to a lack of knowledge and cultural and religious misconceptions.Objective: This study aimed to determine the baseline level of knowledge about BTL and the impact ofan educational intervention among women attending antenatal care and family planning clinics at Tenwekand Longisa Hospitals in Bomet County.Methods: A quasi-experimental study design was employed. Demographic characteristics, knowledge ofBTL, perceived risks, and benefits were assessed at baseline and postintervention. A difference measurewas used to assess the impact of the intervention at 95% CI, with a p-value of 0.05 consideredsignificant. The data were analyzed using STATA version 18.Results: The mean age of the participants at baseline and postintervention was 29.0±5.8 years and29.2±5.6 years, respectively. Overall, 62% of the participants reported they would choose BTL, with 52%in the postintervention arm. When asked if their religion allowed BTL, 80.6% responded yes and weresupported by their husband (92%); however, 62% reported they could not have it if their spouse wasagainst it. In general, lower knowledge scores were obtained in the postintervention arm, implying thatthe educational intervention did not influence participants' knowledge of BTL. There was no statisticallysignificant difference in the participants' knowledge levels at baseline and postintervention [3.3 (-3.2 to9.9); p-value=0.3].Conclusion: Educating families, particularly women of childbearing age, about alternative family planningmethods would increase their adoption, allowing families to achieve desired family sizes while limiting theimpact of unwanted pregnancies and maintaining a healthy population.
Refreshed implementation strategy for respectful maternity care through policy dialog in Kenya
Authors: Erick Odipo , Odila Paul , Shanon McNab  , Isabella Ochieng  , Suzanne Stalls Susan  , Moffson Angeline Mutinga
Published: February 2024

Background: Kenya’s Ministry of Health (MOH) has demonstrated its commitment to quality, respectful health care through the development of national RMNC/PCC policies embedded in existing RMNCAH policies. However, the MOH has identified a gap in the implementation of RMNC policies. 
Methods: MCGL conducted global and Kenya-specific literature reviews on topics including mistreatment, respectful newborn care, and best practices for RMNC interventions. In addition, qualitative data were obtained through three focused group discussions, and 15 key informant interviews (KIIs) at various levels.
Results: Most studies have assessed manifestations, prevalence, and to, to a lesser extent, drivers of disrespect and abuse or mistreatment in facility childbirth. Respondents from the KIIs described cases of mistreatment including harassment, rudeness, denial of services, lack of privacy, and violence. In a 2017 qualitative study, participants described a lack of leadership, stewardship, and accountability toward existing RMNC policies, leading to a lack of implementation. The Kenya Free Maternity Policy recommended that despite this policy, women may still not attend health facilities for maternity care. Newborn experience has largely been excluded from the conversation of RMNC, which has an impact on women and providers with long-lasting effects on their mental health and future care seeking. KIIs were familiar with qualitative methods of measuring mistreatment through exit interviews. 
Conclusion: Counties are at different stages of advancing respectful care for mothers and newborns and integrating RMNC into existing primary healthcare systems. SA provides evidence regarding the development and implementation of effective RMNC policies and programs both globally and in Kenya.
Measurement of safe and respectful maternity care in exit interviews following facility childbirth at the Lwala Community Health Centre
Authors: Siele Carren Cheronoh
Published: February 2024

Background: Respectful maternity care is essential for ensuring positive childbirth experiences for women. It emphasizes moral values and respect for human rights and encourages behavior that considers women's preferences and needs for pregnant women, newborns, and their families. Maternity exit interviews conducted at Lwala Hospital assessed women's experiences during labor and delivery.
Methods: A survey tool, Kobo Collect, was used for data collection among women who delivered at Lwala Hospital. 64 women of an age range of 17 and 36 years who delivered between October 1, 2023, and November 30, 2023, were interviewed. All the women had already given birth at least once. 
Results: Most of the women in the survey felt that they were given sufficient information to make informed decisions and felt comfortable during their delivery process. 86% strongly agreed that they were encouraged to have some light food, warm fluids, or tea during labor and birth. 72% of women said staff members talked to them about the advantages, disadvantages, and alternatives to treatments or procedures. Only 49% received information about caring for their babies. 13% felt they received information about where to get follow-up care. 96% felt the staff always protected their privacy at all stages. 80% said that the staff never scolded, shouted at, insulted, or made disrespectful comments. 91% said they were never touched by a staff member in a way that caused pain or felt inappropriate or non-consensual. 95% of women said all the staff care about what matters to the mother and her family. 85% of women were encouraged to feel confident in their ability to give birth. Despite 86% of the women feeling that the staff were active during labor, only 68% of women felt competence from the staff members during labor.
Conclusion: Interviews underscore the importance of maternity exit interviews in assessing and enhancing the quality of maternity care. The outcomes of this research will inform future interventions and reinforce the commitment to providing respectful and equitable maternity care.
Enhancing data accuracy and reliability in maternal and child health: MCGL success story
Authors: Erick Odipo , Rambo Dan , Odila Paul , Sitrin Deborah , Alinda Ndenga  , Collins Mukanya
Published: February 2024

Background: Accurate maternal and child health data are essential for informed decision-making; however, maintaining consistent data quality in postnatal care and live birth records remains a persistent challenge. Since the inception of MCGL, discrepancies within these datasets have compromised the data's quality for decision making. Recognizing this, the need for an effective solution to rectify data integrity issues and enhance reliability became evident.
Methods: Mentorship at the facility level was conducted for healthcare staff to ensure a clear understanding of indicators for accurate reporting, focusing on new data elements introduced in the KHIS 2020 revision. In collaboration with health information officers, the project monitoring, evaluation, and learning officer identified sets of indicators, along with closely related proxy indicators, for monitoring. A systematic approach was employed, involving a comparative analysis of primary indicators and corresponding proxy indicators. For instance, if 100 live births were recorded, an expectation of 100 infants receiving postnatal care within 48 hours was anticipated. Regular monthly communication was established with HRIOs to identify and validate discrepancies that emerged during the comparison.
Results: Significant improvement in data quality was observed. From October 2020 to September 2021, 6,337 infants received PNC within 48 hours, accounting for 56% of the 11,309 live births. In the subsequent years (October 2021 to September 2022 and October 2022 to September 2023), this p increased to 89% and 92%, respectively.
Conclusion: The combined impact of mentorship and regular monthly communication can enhance data quality, instilling increased confidence in data use for informed decision making.
Polish Re-Democratisation as “Building Back Better”
Authors: Morijn John
Published: February 2024

Since the new Polish government took power, it has taken first steps to restore the rule of law. These have been quite different in nature, from the soft appeals to comply with the case law of the CJEU to more uncompromising and confrontational measures, like taking control of the public broadcasting TVP. It is clear that restoring a damaged liberal democracy requires a different mindset than fighting its demise. While the latter aims to strategically delay the anticipated undemocratic endeavours, the former must constructively rebuild. I call this ‘Building Back Better’, akin to the UN risk-reduction approach employed to avoid future disasters.
Heyday of Autocratic Legalism in Slovakia
Authors: Steuer Max
Published: February 2024

Slovakia’s parliament approved an amendment to its criminal code and associated legislation that, if it comes into effect, will significantly reduce the prescription periods for various crimes including rape, the penalties for others, and abolish the Special Prosecutor’s Office. Despite a narrative claiming to commit to restorative justice by reducing lengths for prison sentences and implementing a more diverse set of conviction options, the legislative changes perpetuate violence through autocratic legalism on the vast majority of the Slovak population, and especially those vulnerable to abuses of power. This assault on the criminal legal system in Slovakia by the ruling illiberal coalition is expected to put the Constitutional Court under pressure.
Calidad nutricional y digestibilidad in vitro del nopal (Opuntia rastrera) y maguey (Agave salmiana Otto)
Authors: Fuentes-Rodríguez Jesús Manuel , Aparicio-Gómez Giovanni Octavio , Ruiz-Zarate Fernando , Charles-Rodríguez Ana Verónica
Published: February 2024

El nopal y el maguey se han usado por mucho tiempo como forraje de emergencia en las épocas de sequias e invierno, cuando la producción de forrajes y granos es muy escasa. Estudios sobre el nopal y maguey muestran que estos productos presentan gran cantidad de agua, aunque como alimento aportan pocas proteínas, por lo que es necesario adicionarles ingredientes proteicos y energéticos para mejorar su calidad nutricional. Debido a tales características, el presente trabajo tuvo como objetivo determinar el contenido nutricional y digestibilidad in vitro de dos especies de nopal y maguey, en dos localidades del municipio de Arteaga, Coahuila, a diferentes tiempos de incubación (0, 3, 6, 12, 24, 48 y 72 hrs.). Las especies de nopal evaluadas presentaron valores semejantes en el contenido de materia seca, extracto etéreo, proteína cruda, fibra detergente ácida y fibra detergente neutra, mientras que en el contenido de materia orgánica, ceniza, fibra cruda y extracto libre de nitrógeno se pudieron observar diferencias (P < 0.05). En el caso del maguey, las dos especies presentaron valores semejantes en el contenido de materia seca, mientras que en el contenido de materia orgánica, ceniza, extracto etéreo, proteína cruda, fibra detergente acida, fibra detergente neutra, fibra cruda y extracto libre de nitrógeno se pudieron observar diferencias (P < 0.05). Los valores de digestibilidad de materia seca in vitro para Opuntia rastrera de Arteaga, en los siete tiempos estudiados, fueron de: 44.72,48.24, 65.22, 74.44, 77.36, 84.13, 76.28%, y para Bella Unión de: 33.38, 42.77, 47.41, 52.56, 58.58, 66.65, 58.52%, respectivamente, en tanto que para el Agave salmiana de Arteaga, fueron de: 53.41, 58.31, 65.58, 74.44, 83.86, 91.54, 83.76%, y el de Bella Unión de: 59.71, 68.43, 75.18, 78.22, 83.51, 92.54, 86.49%, por lo que se concluyó que es ampliamente recomendable la utilización de las dos especies para la alimentación de animales, ya que ambas tienen una composición nutricional muy similar y un alto valor en cuanto a digestibilidad.
Densidades de población y niveles de fertilización en la producción de grano de una variedad experimental de maíz amarillo
Authors: Rodríguez-Núñez Andrés Gustavo , Ruiz-Torres Norma Angélica , Flores-López Celestino
Published: February 2024

De la producción nacional de maíz sólo 8% corresponde al maíz amarillo, del que se importaron seis millones de toneladas en 2013. Para subsanar el déficit y reducir la importación de este grano, en necesario incrementar su producción y rendimiento a través de prácticas agronómicas. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue determinar el efecto de la interacción entre dos niveles de fertilización y tres densidades de población en el rendimiento de grano de maíz amarillo. Este experimento se estableció en el ciclo de P-V 2014, en la localidad El Mezquite, municipio de Galeana, Nuevo León, México. Se utilizó semilla de una variedad experimental de color amarillo derivada de la cruza entre Pool 33 y Pool 34, provenientes del Centro Internacional de Mejoramiento de Maíz y Trigo (cimmyt). Se evaluaron tres densidades de población: 60, 70 y 80 mil plantas ha-1, y dos niveles de fertilización: 120-60-60 y 180-60-60 de N-P-K, respectivamente. El experimento se analizó con un diseño experimental de bloques al azar con arreglo factorial 2x3: dos niveles de fertilización, tres densidades de población, con cuatro repeticiones. Se evaluaron los siguientes caracteres agronómicos: al- tura de planta (APTA), altura de mazorca (AMAZ), floración masculina (FM), floración femenina (FF) y rendimiento (REN). Los resultados no mostraron diferencias significativas para densidades de población y niveles de fertilización en las variables evaluadas, lo que probablemente se debió a que el maíz estudiado era una variedad adaptada a la región, por lo que no requería de altos insumos para mejorar su producción.
Incidencia y severidad de escoba de bruja asociado a la proliferación de la manzana en Rosaceas
Authors: Hernández-Hernández Yolanda Isabel , Sánchez-Arizpe Abiel , Galindo-Cepeda Ma. Elizabeth , Ochoa-Fuentes Yisa María , Flores-Olivas Alberto , De la Cruz-Armas Alejandro
Published: February 2024

En la presente investigación se realizó una prospección visual en una huerta de manzano (Malus domestica), con la finalidad de evaluar la posible extensión de la enfermedad: proliferación de la manzana (AP) en la Sierra de Arteaga. La importancia de esta enfermedad radica en los reportes de su presencia en especies de la familia Rosaceae, que incluye al manzano y el capulín (Prunus salicifolia); en este último fue en el que se observaron los síntomas, por lo que se le realizaron muestreos dirigidos, en árboles ubicados en los límites de la huerta que se utilizan como barrera biológica. En septiembre, la incidencia en el capulín fue de 0.5%. Paralelamente se evaluó por inspección visual la incidencia de la enfermedad en 200 árboles de la huerta. Se evaluó la expresión de síntomas de la enfermedad de AP a lo largo del año y se obtuvo una severidad del 40% en árboles infectados, aunque no se descartó que el fitoplasma estuviera presente en árboles asintomáticos.
La salud del suelo y el uso de bioestimulantes
Authors: Rivera-Solís Luz Leticia , Benavides-Mendoza Adalberto , Robledo-Olivo Armando , González-Morales Susana
Published: February 2024

A nivel mundial, la agricultura se enfrenta a una crisis alimentaria, que ha incentivado a la aplicación de prácticas inadecuadas con el fin de incrementar su productividad y satisfacer la demanda de alimentos. Sin embargo, el uso indiscriminado de agroquímicos ha impactado negativamente en el medio ambiente, principalmente en los suelos agrícolas, que han presentado eutrofización, salinidad, e infertilidad de producción para muchos cultivos. En la búsqueda de estrategias para reducir el impacto ecológico y cuidar la salud del suelo, el desarrollo de bioestimulantes representa una herramienta potencial para contribuir en las prácticas agrícolas convencionales, promoviendo el uso eficiente de insumos con el fin de aprovechar al máximo la productividad de los cultivos. En este sentido, los bioestimulante se definen como cualquier sustancia o producto que al aplicarse en cantidades adecuadas mejora una o más características de la planta, como la eficiencia en el uso de nutrientes, l tolerancia al estrés (biótico o abiótico), rasgos de calidad de frutos y la disponibilidad de nutrientes confinados en el suelo o la rizosfera. Por lo cual, el objetivo de este artículo es dar a conocer el efecto de los bioestimulantes relacionados con el cuidado y la salud del suelo.