bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep Network Spline Geometry
Authors: Baraniuk Rich
Published: October 2024

We study the geometry of deep learning through the lens of approximation theory via spline functions and operators. Our key result is that a large class of deep networks (DNs) can be written as a composition of max-affine spline operators (MASOs), which provide a powerful portal through which to view and analyze their inner workings. For instance, conditioned on the input signal, the output of a MASO DN can be written as a simple affine transformation of the input. This implies that a DN constructs a set of signal-dependent, class-specific templates against which the signal is compared via a simple inner product; we explore the links to the classical theory of optimal classification via matched filters and the effects of data memorization. The spline partition of the input signal space that is implicitly induced by a MASO directly links DNs to the theory of vector quantization (VQ) and K-means clustering, which opens up new geometric avenue to study how DNs organize signals in a hierarchical and multiscale fashion.
Narración documental de la Guerra Civil Española: estrategias narrativas de los documentales históricos en el inicio del siglo XXI
Authors: Gómez Segarra Manuel , Gil Gascón Fátima
Published: October 2024

Este artículo tiene como objetivo estudiar la manera en la que los documentales históricos se enfrentan a la elaboración de un relato. Se parte de la premisa de que los documentales no son una mera recopilación y enunciación de datos, sino una narración elaborada conforme a los planteamientos del lenguaje audiovisual. Con el fin de comprender de qué modo los realizadores afrontan la confección del relato se ha procedido al estudio de los largometrajes documentales sobre la Guerra Civil Española realizados entre el 2000 y el 2014. Tomando como unidad de análisis la secuencia, se ha realizado un desglose de los tipos de imágenes y sonidos empleados atendiendo a su duración, orden y predominio de trama o personajes. La investigación plantea el concepto de estrategia narrativa, un término que permite entender el mecanismo interno del formato atendiendo a tres cuestiones: el planteamiento de la producción, la solución visual y la decisión narrativa. El estudio del corpus elegido ha permitido detectar once estrategias narrativas u once maneras de plasmar un mismo hecho del pasado, con finalidades e intencionalidades distintas.
Compliance to Health and Safety Measures in Selected Construction Firms in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors:   University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria, Zakariyyah Kudirat , Faremi Olajide ,   University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria, Sotunbo Adegboyega ,   University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
Published: October 2024

Non-compliance to safety measures remains one of the factors that endanger construction sites. As one of its contributions to work on enhancing the safety and health of workers and improving project quality delivery, this study examined the level of compliance to health and safety among construction firms in Lagos State, from the perspective of workers. The study adopted a survey research design. The sample size for the study was one hundred and twenty (120) skilled artisans who were randomly selected from among foreign and indigenous construction firms in the state. The research instrument was a questionnaire that collected relevant data, with descriptive and inferential statistics being used for the data analysis. It was found that only 22% of the firms made provision for PPE, in the light of legislative requirements on standards. Moreover, out of three workers, one was afraid to report incidents/accidents while the fraction of workers that wished to report were unaware of the officials to report such matters to. Consequently, a similar percentage of workers was worried that there would be a penalty for reporting safety issues. Regarding contractors' safety policy review, while one out of every three contractors bore their responsibilities under the safety policy, one out of every four contractors was requested to make some amendments. It was thus concluded that workers are not encouraged to report any incident or accident confirming a low level of compliance between the two firms. It is therefore suggested that there should be strict enforcement of measures for improving safety and health practices on construction sites, in addition to motivating workers on incident/accident reporting and specifying the right line of safety actions. Furthermore, risk assessment for work operations should be enhanced to minimise the percentage of work that is halted or executed unsafely.
Perception of Women in Water Supply and Associated Health Risks in the Use of Harvested Stored Rainwater in Enugu State, Nigeria
Authors:   Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Uli Campus, Anambra State, Akanwa Angela , Joe-Ikechebelu Ngozi ,   University of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, Omoruyi Fredrick ,   Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Alumuna Chukwuebuka ,   Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Uli Campus, Anambra State
Published: October 2024

Rainwater harvesting (RWH) has become a necessity in many Nigerian communities due to water scarcity, particularly during the dry season. This study examines the perception of women in water supply and associated health risks in the use of harvested stored rainwater in Enugu-Ezike, Enugu State. Field observation, random in-depth interviews etc., are inclusive in the qualitative methods employed in the study. Laboratory analysis of physicochemical and bacteriological parameters of stored RWH samples (hand dug well and drinking vessels) were also carried out. Findings show that rural, poor and deprived women suffered consistent water stress and shortage in dry seasons and this accounts for 84% of them being dependent on stored rainwater harvesting. Findings show that RWH stored water is unfit for drinking and has health risks with high possibilities; it causes cholera and typhoid repeatedly in children. The study also shows other ramifications of water scarcity in the case study area, including the gendered burden of fetching water and the health implications of this.
Challenges of Regularisation of Informal Land Holdings in Lagos Mainland, Nigeria
Authors:   Federal Polytechnic Ilaro, Ogun State, Adedamola Wasiu , Oyedeji Oyewale ,   Bells University of Technology, Ota, Oyesomo Oyewole ,   Federal Polytechnic Ilaro, Ogun State
Published: October 2024

This study investigated the regularization of informal land in Lagos Mainland in order to identify the challenges that are militating against formalization of such holdings. The objectives were to identify all areas that can be regularized by the public authority, to examine the factors militating against public efforts on informal land holders within Lagos-Mainland. The study was conducted with a survey of residents of Odogunyan-WAEC acquisition land community. A second survey was carried out for all professionals in the field of Town Planning, Estate Management and Valuation who were staff of the Directorate of Land Department in the Lagos State Lands Bureau. The data were analyzed mainly with descriptive and inferential statistical tools. Findings showed that factors such as high land charges by the government, complexity of modern methods of land holdings, increased rent seeking behavior, high land values, were considered as problems that hindered residents from formalization. Reducing the charges attached to land regularization is expected to have significant positive impact in Lagos State in general.
Economic Resilience of Mass-Housing Project Delivery in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors:   University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria, Faremi Olajide , Edike Uche ,   Bells University of Technology, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria, Kukoyi Patricia ,   University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria, Sotunbo Adegboyega ,   University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria, Zakariyyah Kudirat ,   University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria, Agoro Zulaikhah ,   University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
Published: October 2024

The study investigates mass-housing development projects and their economic resilience in terms of affordability for medium-income and low-income earners in Lagos State, Nigeria. The qualitative study utilised data collected through in-depth literature review and structured interview sessions with twenty (20) stakeholders in the delivery of mass-housing projects comprising property developers, real-estate managers and construction executives operating in Lagos, Nigeria. The data were processed and analysed using both the quantitative data coding and thematic qualitative data analysis techniques. The study revealed that the predominant financing models for mass-housing projects include mortgage financing, public-private partnerships, private equity funds/loans, private developer funds, housing bonds, contractual savings schemes, and land-based financing. The study concludes that the economic resilience of mass-housing developments is quite low, as low and medium-income housing schemes are difficult to actualise because private-developer funding is the most frequently available means of funding mass housing projects. Inevitably, mass housing schemes are frequently priced beyond the reach of low-income earners. Moreover, the limited implementation of Federal Housing Schemes is a major threat to the economic resilience of low- and medium-income housing projects. Therefore, the study recommends specific strategies that can improve the economic resilience of mass-housing projects, including instalment plans, off-plan sales, buyer savings schemes and crowdfunding.
Motivations of Female Entrepreneurs in Housing Business and Implications for Sustainable Development of Affordable Housing in Lagos
Authors:   University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria, Shittu Ayodele , Adeosun Oluyemi , Ugbede Daniel , Umeh Lynda
Published: October 2024

Despite growing belief that housing is a potent platform for alleviating poverty (SDG #1), promoting good health (SDG #3) and enhancing decent employment (SDG #8), it is worrisome that the sustainable provision of affordable housing for all remains unattainable in many cities across Nigeria, including Lagos. Consequently, entrepreneurs exploring opportunities in the housing sector are becoming more popular. Emerging evidence also affirms that female entrepreneurs are aggressively penetrating the housing market despite prevailing imbalances in gender representation. Given the humongous challenges faced by the Lagos housing market and the scarcity of studies exploring female entrepreneurship in the housing sector, this study examines motivations behind female entrepreneurial participation in the Lagos housing sector. Adopting a mixed research methodology, the authors sought to answer the research question: What are the factors motivating the participation of female entrepreneurs in the housing sector, especially in Lagos? The adopted eclectic approach involved collecting multiple data through social media and face-to-face interactions. Between October and November 2018, female entrepreneurs in the real estate business and residents of Lagos were asked why they opted for entrepreneurship in the housing sector. The responses gathered were critically reviewed and pulled to develop a survey instrument, which was later administered among 140 female entrepreneurs in housing across the state. Following the extraction of data, the choice of the number of factors to be retained was guided by a critical component of exploratory factor analysis. The findings show that the motivations of female entrepreneurs in the housing business can be categorized into three namely family satisfaction, personal achievements, and financial satisfaction. The study recommends that stakeholders in the housing sector should consider the peculiarities and aspirations of women when formulating housing and land policies.
Science and society. General trends in the development of material production and science
Authors:   Lipetsk State Technical University, Razomazova Maria N.
Published: October 2024

This article discusses the topical topic of interaction between science and society. The paper considers the concepts of “society”, “science”, “material and spiritual production”. Analyzing the relationship between science and society, the author investigated the impact of scientific knowledge on material production, science plays a key role in the development of society, providing it with technological innovations, knowledge about the world around it and the basis for decision-making in various fields. The importance of science and material production for modern society is emphasized. The prevailing importance of technological innovations for modernization and improvement of production efficiency is noted. The author analyzes the main factors influencing the development of these areas, such as informatization, technological innovations, mathematization, industrialization and changes in consumer behavior. This article discusses the development of material production and science in the context of the post-industrial world. The development of the internet, mobile devices and digital platforms is changing the way people interact, work and learn. The final part of the article touches on the general features of the development of science and material production, as well as the specific features of the development of material production in post-industrial society. Finally, it is said that the change in consumer behavior has a significant impact on the development of science and production. Consumers are increasingly concerned about the quality of products, their health and the environment, expecting good and individual goods and services.
Ergodesign: synthesis of theory and practice using the example of a psychological relief room
Authors:   Lipetsk State Technical University, Kantaryuk Ekaterina A. , Grebenikova Sofia A. ,   Lipetsk State Technical University
Published: October 2024

This paper discusses the importance of using psychological relief rooms in enterprises. The role of ergodesign in such a space is considered, and the beneficial effects of the main elements of equipment are indicated. One of the possible programs for using the room is offered.
Kelayakan Media Pembelajaran Flashcard Interaktif dalam Pemanfaatannya pada Pembelajaran yang Berintegrasi pada Budaya Lokal (Leksikon Kuliner Bima)
Authors: Akbar Muh. Rijalul , Hanafi Sri Hardiningsih , Widayati Ulfa , Ramli Ramli
Published: October 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengevaluasi kelayakan media pembelajaran flashcard interaktif berbasis leksikon kuliner lokal Bima, Nusa Tenggara Barat, dengan mengintegrasikan unsur budaya ke dalam pembelajaran. Teknologi pendidikan yang inovatif, seperti media flashcard interaktif, memungkinkan pengalaman belajar yang lebih menarik dan interaktif, terutama dalam memahami konsep budaya lokal. Penelitian ini menggunakan model pengembangan ADDIE yang meliputi tahapan analisis, desain, pengembangan, dan evaluasi. Validasi dilakukan oleh lima validator ahli media, dengan fokus pada aspek desain visual, kemudahan penggunaan, daya tarik pengguna, dan pemanfaatan teknologi. Teknik analisis data dalam penelitian ini adalah deskriptif kuantitatif dengan menggunakan skala Likert sebagai instrumen untuk mengukur kelayakan media pembelajaran. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa hasil evaluasi kelayakan media pembelajaran ini menyatakan bahwa media sangat layak digunakan dengan skor rata-rata 4.63. Media flashcard ini tidak hanya mempermudah siswa dalam memahami materi akademik, tetapi juga menumbuhkan apresiasi terhadap budaya lokal, sehingga dapat berkontribusi pada pelestarian warisan budaya daerah. Implementasi lanjutan di kelas diperlukan untuk mengevaluasi dampaknya terhadap hasil belajar siswa.
Evaluating the Utilization of Routine Health Information by Healthcare Providers: A Critical Study
Authors: Alharbi Obaid Eid , Alanazi Menwer Hassan , Alotaibi Sami Mubarak , Thaqafi Naif Al
Published: October 2024

Routine Health Information (RHI) plays a crucial role in enhancing healthcare delivery and patient outcomes by providing essential data for informed decision-making. Despite its significance, the utilization of RHI among healthcare providers remains inconsistent and suboptimal. This study aims to critically evaluate the utilization of RHI by healthcare providers, identifying current practices, barriers, and potential improvements. Using a mixed-methods approach, we collected data from a diverse sample of healthcare providers through surveys and in-depth interviews. Our findings reveal significant variations in RHI utilization, influenced by factors such as lack of training, inadequate infrastructure, and time constraints. Additionally, we identified systemic barriers including insufficient integration of RHI systems into daily workflows and limited support from healthcare administration. Based on these insights, we propose targeted strategies to enhance RHI utilization, such as improved training programs, better integration of RHI systems, and stronger institutional support. Our study underscores the need for comprehensive efforts to address the challenges in RHI utilization, ultimately aiming to improve healthcare quality and patient outcomes. The findings provide valuable implications for healthcare providers, policymakers, and researchers, highlighting the importance of optimizing RHI systems for better healthcare delivery.
Assessment Of Bacterial And Fungal Contamination In Common Pharmaceuticals And Their Public Health Implications
Authors: K Y. Prathibha , Vanekar. Aathiya , M. Mini , R. Vaishnavi , G N. Divyashree , Banu Marhoob
Published: October 2024

Pharmaceutical contamination by microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, poses significant public health risks, as contaminated drugs can lead to severe infections, treatment failures, and compromised patient safety. This study investigates microbial contamination in a range of commonly used pharmaceutical products. For bacterial contamination, Troycaine, Synim, Methdilazine, and Vericose Vein were analyzed using nutrient agar. The results indicated the presence of Gram-positive bacteria in all samples: Troycaine was contaminated with Gram-positive cocci, while Synim and Methdilazine were found to contain Gram-positive rods. The study further extended to fungal contamination in pharmaceuticals, including Troycaine, Methdilazine, Vericose Vein, Ambroxl Kufril, Montair, Dextromethorphan, and Mefenamic Acid + Paracetamol. Troycaine tested positive for fungal contamination, with Rhizopus stolonifer and Aspergillus niger being identified as contaminants. These fungal species are known for their potential to cause serious infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. The presence of microbial contamination in pharmaceuticals not only compromises the therapeutic efficacy of the drugs but also presents a significant public health threat, increasing the risk of drug-resistant infections, allergic reactions, and other complications. These findings emphasize the critical need for stringent microbial quality control in pharmaceutical manufacturing, storage, and distribution to mitigate these risks and ensure patient safety.
La publicidad como medio de influencia en los hábitos alimenticios. Caso: Universidad de Guayaquil
Authors: Salas Narváez Luci Cristina , Angulo Vélez Daniel Andrés , Díaz Tandazo Daniel Fernando
Published: October 2024

La presente investigación tiene como objetivo principal, el análisis sobre la influencia que genera la publicidad exterior hacia los hábitos alimenticos o conductas alimenticias que se mantiene durante la vida estudiantil; así mismo, como el mensaje publicitario logra interceder al consumo de alimentos poco saludables; pues se cree que la publicidad exterior visualizada en sectores cercanos a la Universidad de Guayaquil, intercede e influye negativamente en lo que consumen diariamente los estudiantes. Aplicando una metodología de investigación cuantitativa como cualitativa, que ayude a valorar el número aproximado de estudiantes influenciados por la publicidad externa, que se visualiza en los locales comerciales alrededores de la Universidad de Guayaquil. Las técnicas y herramientas están basadas por encuestas, observación, y grupos focales que justifiquen la investigación realizada. Los resultados del estudio permitirán crear conciencia en los estudiantes con la finalidad de que se pueda minimizar considerablemente el consumo masivo de productos alimentarios no saludables fomentando una alimentación sana que desarrolle mejor el desempeño estudiantil.
Emprendimiento agrícola. Producción y comercialización del aprovechamiento de los residuos del coco.
Authors: Parrales Escalante Simón , León Ledeño Pedro
Published: October 2024

El presente estudio se basa en la oportunidad de ejecutar un emprendimiento, regido por principios de procesos sustentables acondicionados con características ecológicas, conociendo que los residuos sólidos constituyen una fuente de contaminación a nivel nacional y mundial pero que a pesar de esto pueden ser reutilizados para darles un beneficio económico. El residuo que busca potencializarse en su utilización es la estopa del coco, la cual es considerada como un desperdicio sólido. La investigación se orienta en la búsqueda de nuevos usos o productos que puedan fabricarse a base de la estopa de coco como materia prima, aparentemente sin utilidad o alternativa de uso, para transformarla en un bien útil para la industria y la sociedad. La investigación es de corte descriptivo y enfoque cualitativo, sustentado en la búsqueda bibliográfica y documental. Los resultados encontrados pusieron en evidencia que el aprovechamiento de recursos renovables de desechos, aplicando los principios de operaciones unitarias para la elaboración de módulos estructurales a base de fibra de la estopa del coco, son viables. Desde este punto de vista, se muestra la utilidad de uso de este residuo, para obtener productos provenientes de la fibra del coco, material con demanda internacional, lo cual da la oportunidad y perspectiva de desarrollo de un negocio local, especializado en el tratamiento de estos residuos sólidos.
Impacto económico y ambiental generado por el sector camaronero del Ecuador
Authors: Guevara Toscana María Elena , Palma Caicedo Tito Adalberto , Cabrera Enríquez Daisy Marilú
Published: October 2024

El objetivo primordial de este proyecto de investigación es permitir evaluar el impacto económico y ambiental generado por el sector camaronero, siendo en la actualidad la acuicultura la principal fuente de divisas no petroleras. Existiendo aproximadamente 218.351 hectáreas autorizadas, para producción de camarón cuyo monto de exportación hasta el mes de septiembre del 2021 es de más de 3.671 millones de dólares. La metodología aplicada es de diseño cuantitativo, cuyos datos analizados son de un periodo de tiempo determinado y obtenidos del Banco Central (BCE), CNA y Ministerio de Producción, Comercio-Exterior, Inversiones y Pesca. Siendo el sector camaronero el de mayor crecimiento económico dentro del país, los empresarios ecuatorianos junto con el gobierno, comprometidos con este crecimiento, están incentivando en la producción del camarón, la incorporación de procesos de producción orgánica como el Biofloc. Aprovechando la gran demanda que el camarón orgánico tiene en la actualidad a nivel internacional. Entre los resultados adicionales que se desean obtener es incentivar a la industria camaronera a la certificación de “sello verde”, apoyar y permitir a los empresarios expandirse a otros mercados que les permita competir con mejores precios, mantener la calidad del producto y contar con una producción y exportación sostenible.
Ética empresarial y su vínculo con el desarrollo organizacional
Authors: Valdano Cabezas Giovanni , Arce Recalde Jazmín
Published: October 2024

La globalización exige que las empresas sean competitivas, en todo ámbito, tecnología, procesos, financiero, medio ambiente, responsabilidad social, marca, ventas, etc., los directivos tienen identificado que el éxito o fracaso de su compañía depende del factor humano y de la toma de decisiones. Es por ello por lo que las empresas valoran la responsabilidad de aplicar normas y principios que permitan su sostenibilidad empresarial, la ética empresarial no tiene un código de aplicación global sin embargo las organizaciones desarrollan la aplicación en tal sentido que genere responsabilidad social obteniendo directivos y empleados beneficios. Para este trabajo se realizó una revisión de diversos conceptos desde Adam Smith en 1776, aplicando la metodología cualitativa, se realizó una discusión de diferentes estudios relacionados a la aplicación de ética en empresas, colaboradores o estudiantes de administración, resaltando la sinergia de los términos globales liderazgo transformacional y la importancia de aplicar principios éticos para generar confianza en los stakeholders de una empresa, la confianza empresarial está ligada al desarrollo sostenible de una organización y la adopción de normas éticas en la toma de decisiones.
Incidencia de la app Chulkify en la disminución de los índices de usura en el Ecuador
Authors: Torres Torres David , Rodríguez Galán Jimmy Vicente
Published: October 2024

En el presente artículo se evidencian los resultados investigativos sobre el efecto del financiamiento informal que ofrecen los usureros, empleando una metodología exploratoria con el fin de familiarizarse y obtener información según la realidad del entorno, el cual muestra el impacto que ocasionó la pandemia por el corona virus en el sector económico afectando a las empresas y familias de bajos recursos que requieren un ingreso diario para poder subsistir, buscando una alternativa dentro del financiamiento informal, lo cual ocasiona problemas al momento de pagar debido a las excesivas tasas de interés que ofrecen los usureros y el corto plazo disponible para saldar la deuda. Con el fin de disminuir las actividades de los usureros, se desarrolló un aplicativo móvil que permite a los usuarios generar fondos comunitarios, mediante la creación de grupos familiares, que aportan una cantidad inicial de dinero en forma de criptomonedas. Los resultados muestran el desarrollo del aplicativo, junto con una interfaz de fácil uso y entendimiento para los usuarios.
Estudio exploratorio del entorno fintech en Ecuador
Authors: Sarmiento Torres Ingrid del Rosario , Galárraga Tobar Sophía Bethzabel
Published: October 2024

Mediante un estudio exploratorio esta investigación pretende analizar el entorno de las startup FinTech en el Ecuador, que surgen como una respuesta a la economía colaborativa empleando la innovación abierta en busca de reinventar el sector financiero. Con el análisis se permite conocer qué son las Fintech, su entorno, las principales características y sus principales beneficiarios logrando determinar los factores que lo transforman en un modelo sostenible de servicio financiero bajo el marco regulatorio vigente. Como resultados del estudio exploratorio se evidencia que en el Ecuador las principales startup Fintech se integraron al sector bancario para asegurar su viabilidad en el corto plazo y dentro de los principales objetivos está lograr la inclusión del tercio de la población ecuatoriana que no está bancarizada, usando como ventaja el acceso a internet que es favorable a nivel nacional; sin embargo se evidenció entidades que no son parte del catastro público que cuenta con el soporte legal de un ente de control que garantice la operación de estos nuevos actores. Proponemos como discusión los retos que se tienen dentro de este nuevo modelo en busca de alcanzar la inclusión financiera fomentando a su vez la innovación y asegurando el interés público.
¿Cómo podría influenciar Lean Startups en la validación de modelo de negocio de las pymes?
Authors: Rivas Choez Jamilet Julexy , Rodríguez Galán Jimmy Vicente
Published: October 2024

El objetivo de este artículo es hacer una comparación sobre la utilización del procedimiento Lean Startup y examinar los diversos enfoques y actividades que implica. Lean Startup es una estrategia con extraordinario impacto en el clima emprendedor que hace concebible llevar a cabo organizaciones que intentan no quedarse de brazos cruzados, inactivos y esfuerzos sin sentido. Presenta como paso preliminar a la producción y ejecución de una organización remitir un Startup, un análisis que otorga al empresario buscar un plan de acción favorable antes de realizar una organización definiendo las diferencias entre las incubadoras y aceleradoras. Al representar la técnica Lean Startup, la principal ventaja que se debe lograr es el aprendizaje aprobado. Un descubrimiento experimental que se inicia a partir de ciertas especulaciones que se aprueban a través de un aditamento con las cualidades de base para proporcionar al empresario la información importante para encontrar el plan de acción razonable y dar el salto hacia la organización, limitando el temor a la decepción que anticipa a muchos emprendedores y transforma sus pensamientos en negocios.
Sostenibilidad y sustentabilidad de los emprendimientos sociales y comunitarios de la parroquia rural Posorja del cantón Guayaquil
Authors: Franco Castañeda Zoila Nelly , Erazo Flores Edison Ángel
Published: October 2024

El presente trabajo de investigación ha sido desarrollado con la intensión de identificar la sostenibilidad y sustentabilidad en los emprendimientos que existen en la zona rural de la Ciudad de Guayaquil, Parroquia Posorja, y, para esto se realizó un levantamiento de información mediante encuestas dirigidas a personas que poseen algún tipo de negocio, producto de lo cual se pudo evidenciar que la mayoría de estos emprendimiento son de tipo familiar y administrados directamente por sus propietarios. Después de realizar la investigación de campo y mediante el análisis de los resultados se pudo establecer que la parroquia Posorja es una zona en la cual las personas aprovechan las oportunidades que les ofrece su entorno, debido a que se ha convertido en un referente geoFigura de desarrollo turístico por lo que la mayoría de sus habitantes aprovechan de esa circunstancia para generar ingresos por la venta de sus productos. Se pudo observar que tales negocios no son generadores de ingentes ingresos para los grupos familiares que los administran, sin embargo, les permite cubrir la totalidad sus gastos básicos; ellos se sienten muy comprometidos con lo que hacen, se dedican de lleno a sus respectivas actividades, son personas sencillas que con sus emprendimientos comerciales se proyectan salir adelante en el día a día, convirtiéndolo en un medio de subsistencia para sus familias.
Nuevas tecnologías aplicadas en la gestión e innovación del sector turístico
Authors: Herrera Yesenia , Herrera Yesenia , Mera Andrea
Published: October 2024

Este proyecto corresponde a la línea de investigación de competitividad global y es uno de los resultados del proyecto Innovación Tecnológica en Pymes de la ciudad de Guayaquil. El proyecto de estudio sobre las tecnologías aplicadas en turismo analiza el impacto y la integración de innovaciones tecnológicas en la industria turística. Este se enfoca en evaluar cómo herramientas como: inteligencia artificial, big data, realidad virtual y análisis predictivo influyen en la gestión, promoción y experiencia del turista.
Utilizando los resultados de la encuesta se conoce las tendencias en cuanto al uso y percepción de la tecnología por parte de los viajeros, se deduce la alta dependencia del Internet para la planificación de viajes, cómo se mejora la eficiencia operativa de las empresas turísticas, como hoy se personaliza la oferta según las preferencias de los viajeros y se enriquece la interacción del turista con los destinos mediante experiencias virtuales inmersivas. También aborda los desafíos éticos y de privacidad asociados con el uso de estas tecnologías.
El objetivo principal es comprender la importancia de la adaptación tecnológica en el sector turístico para mejorar la experiencia del viajero y asegurar la confianza en la utilización de estas herramientas innovadoras.
Prevalência de sorologia positiva para infecçães sexualmente transmissíveis entre idosos
Authors: Morais Gilberto Santos , Pires Yvison Nycollas Candido , Marques Cristhiane Campos , Araújo Carla Nunes de , El-Chaer William Khalil , Gomes Ciro Martins , Moraes Clayton Franco , Nóbrega Otávio Toledo
Published: October 2024

Objetivo: Averiguar o perfil sorológico de reatividade para infecções sexualmente transmissíveis (ISTs) em amostra de idosos residentes em comunidade. Metodologia: Inquérito epidemiológico por exames sorológicos de rastreio para reatividade contra Treponema pallidum, HIV 1/2 e os vírus associados às hepatites B e C em 495 indivíduos idosos (59.9% do sexo feminino) investigados independentemente de sinais ou sintomas para ISTs. Resultados: Taxas de reatividade para os agentes etiológicos da AIDS e das hepatites virais B e C mostraram-se compatíveis com as prevalências usuais de acometimento por essas ISTs na população brasileira. Entretanto, foi observada prevalência muito elevada de reatividade para sífilis (sintomática ou assintomática) no grupamento, equivalente à cerca de 1.290 casos por 10 mil pessoas idosas, o que sugere exposição proporcionalmente maior de idosos ao contágio por Treponema pallidum e aos risco da morbimortalidade associada a ISTs. Conclusões: Esse cenário indica que são necessárias adequações nos serviços de geriatria a fim de que considerem o rastreio para infecções sexualmente transmissíveis como parte integrante da rotina clínica de assistência a pessoas idosas.
Seasonal and edaphic variation in VAM infection of fuel wood trees by Glomus mosseae
Authors: Bhadauria Seema , Singh Archna , Yadav Rekha
Published: October 2024

Seasonal differences in percentage length of fuel-wood host roots, viz., Albizia lebbeck, Acacia nilotica and Prosopis juliflora infected with Glomus mosseae were measured in five field sites in Mainpuri District of U.P. Highest G. mosseae infection levels were generally found in the rainy season in phosphorus deficient soils, low in moisture. The root sampled from the soils with a high soil-moisture content, fine endophyte infection increased to a maximum later in the growing season. A higher percentage frequency of fine endophyte infection on fine fuel-wood feeder roots in rainy season is taken as evidence for the hypothesis that G. mosseae is a vesicular arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus particularly adapted to penetrating host roots during brief seasonal fluxes of phosphorus availability. The implications of these data are discussed in relation to mechanisms in fuel-wood trees which adapt them to nutrient stress.
P2P Lending and Mobile Payments: Disrupting Traditional Banking Systems and Expanding Financial Inclusion
Authors: Tang Nyusifan
Published: October 2024

Technological development in the field of finance (FinTech) has sprouted and scaled up rapidly, disrupting the traditional banking system. The rise of new platforms allowing P2P lending and mobile payments has changed the way where and how people receive financial services by replacing professionally-managed financial intermediaries aka banks. This paper explores how P2P lending has enabled decentralised financing by providing flexible loans to borrowers, higher returns to lenders, and alternative credit-scoring methods to assess borrowers credibility. The subsequent development and recent widespread use of mobile payments have brought about transformative changes in finance where users can make payments without using physical cash or relying on banking infrastructure altogether. The combination of these technologies is providing inclusive finance by allowing unbanked and underbanked populations access to necessary financial services. This paper further delves into the challenges emerging from both these innovations, such as assessment of risks, security issues and regulatory uncertainty. The paper concludes by emphasising that new technology-based lending and payments have the potential to foster inclusive economic growth in rural, remote and low-income regions of the world, and by highlighting the challenges that needs to be tackled for FinTech to succeed.
Giftedness and allergy: A comparative study of the risk factors in gifted and typical children
Authors: Öz Erdoğan , Turgut Mehmet , Kılıç Fedli Emre , Küçükkelepçe Osman , Kurt Osman , Almış Habip , Tanrıverdi Hüseyin , Bolu Filiz
Published: October 2024

Aim: To compare the various parameters associated with giftedness and allergy in gifted children within their group and with typical children of average intelligence. Methods: The case-control questionnaire study was conducted in Adıyaman, Türkiye, in April-May 2023. The study included 75 gifted and 190 typical children aged 6-14. The face-to-face survey consisted of 37 questions, 16 of which were added to the 21 questions of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) Phase 3. Results: The prevalence of recurrent ear infections in gifted children (33.3%) was found to be significantly higher than in typical students (20.5%) (P= 0.028). The rate of asthma in gifted students with recurrent ear infections (40%) was found to be significantly higher than the rate in gifted students without recurrent ear infections (16%) (P=0.022). The rate of allergic rhinitis in gifted students with food allergies (38.5%) was found to be significantly higher than the rate of those without food allergies (11.3%) (P=0.029). The high food selectivity (21.3%) of gifted students was found to be significantly higher than that of typical students (8.4%) (P=0.002). Among the gifted students, 50% of those who were very selective about food had asthma (P=0.014), and 37.5% had allergic rhinitis (P=0.029). Conclusions: The study has shown the association between giftedness and various allergic conditions, suggesting that certain factors like recurrent otitis and food selectivity behavior may contribute to the higher prevalence of these conditions in gifted children.
Assessment of physiotherapists’ sensitivity to palpation pressure
Authors: Pala Ömer Osman , Yener Numan , Baş Bahriye , Alsaıravan Muhammed Abdullatif , Uysal Muhammet Fatih
Published: October 2024

Aim: This study was planned to investigate the pressure sensitivity applied by physiotherapists during palpation and the effect of their experience on palpation sensitivity.
Methods: 62 physiotherapists with an age of 31.06 ± 5.29 years and a working experience of 6.88 ± 4.76 years were included in the study. The physiotherapists were divided into two groups: those working in the field of manual therapy and those not working. The participants were asked to apply pressure on an electronic scale with four different weights (500 gr, 1000 gr, 2000 gr, and 4000 gr, respectively). The display screen of the scale on which the measurement was made was blinded to the physiotherapists. After the first measurements, a short training was given and the same measurements were repeated randomly.
Results: In the first evaluation made before the training, it was found that there was a statistical difference between the two groups in the application of 500 grams of pressure (p=0.003). However, no significant difference was found between the two groups in the measurements made after the training (p>0.05). It was observed that the level of professional experience did not significantly affect pressure sensitivity (p>0.05).
Conclusion: This study demonstrates that manual therapy physiotherapists had increased palpation sensitivity when using smaller weights. It is therefore advised that physiotherapists undergo training to enhance their palpation sensitivity, as this is an effective diagnostic and therapeutic technique.
Diskriminacija žena u sportu
Authors: Harča Marija , Petrak Olivera
Published: October 2024

Sa spolnom diskriminacijom možemo se susresti na raznim područjima, pa tako i u sportu. Diskriminacija u svijetu sporta prisutna je od samog početka kada žene radi svoje krhkosti, slabosti i zdravstvenog stanja, s obzirom da su rađale, nisu smjele sudjelovati ni u kakvom obliku tjelesne aktivnosti. S obzirom da se sport smatrao muškom aktivnošću, razvilo se tradicionalno zanemarivanje i omalovažavanje žena sportašica te podcjenjivanje njihovih sposobnosti i rezultata. Podcjenjivanje je osobito istaknuto u tzv. ,,muškim˝ sportovima kao što su nogomet, boks, borilačke vještine. Sportašice doživljavaju diskriminaciju i od strane medija. Budući da su mediji važni u oblikovanju ljudskih stavova, njihova odgovornost za nepravedan položaj sportašica je izrazita. Primjerice, mediji često naglašavaju fizički izgled sportašica, zanemaruju njihova sportska postignuća te ne prenose njihove rezultate, čime uzrokuju nezainteresiranost publike za ženski sport. Sportašice su diskriminirane i od strane samog vodstva njihova sporta, koji čini razliku u ulaganjima u sport ovisno o spolu i plaćenosti sportaša i sportašica. Sportašice su najčešće puno manje plaćene od svojih muških kolega što se opravdava time da sportašice klubovima ili savezima donose manju zaradu. Razlike su prisutne i po pitanju pravila odijevanja: sportašice obično na sportskim natjecanjima moraju nositi oskudniju i usku odjeću, za razliku od svojih muških kolega, što povećava učestalost neprimjerenih seksualnih ponašanja i govora prema sportašicama. Smatra se da sve dok postoji izrazita razlika u zastupljenosti oba spola u vodećim tijelima, do izjednačavanja i ravnopravnosti sportaša i sportašica teško može doći. Naime, u sportskom je vodstvu vrlo mali broj žena, a i ako su prisutne, često su potisnute i nadglasane od strane muških kolega. Katkad dolazi do pobuna samih sportašica, no to je gotovo uvijek popraćeno samo kao skandal i njihov privremeni protest.
Changes in masseter muscle structure, membrane lipid peroxidation and Ca-ATPase activity as effects of different local anesthetics
Authors: de la Cal Carolina , Di Croce Daniel E , Takara Delia
Published: October 2024

Local anesthetics (LA) can cause undesired effects such as sustained contraction of skeletal muscles as a result of structural and functional changes. Proper skeletal muscle function is controlled by intracellular Ca2+ concentration and efficient energy (ATP) production, which is closely related to cell ultrastructure. Aim: The aim of this study was to identify the structural and functional changes caused by LAs. Materials and Method: Male Wistar rats weighing 200 to 250g were used (n:49). They were divided into seven groups. One group was not anesthetized or treated (Control). The other six groups underwent intramuscular (IM) anesthesia with xylazine 2% (0.05 ml) and ketamine 50 mg/ ml (0.1 ml/100g rat weight), and one of the following was applied to the masseter muscle (MM): no further treatment (Anesthetic Control group, CA); 0.1ml physiological saline solution (group SF); Carrageenin (group Carr) 1% as positive control group; prilocaine (group Pri), mepivacaine (group Mepi); or articaine (group Arti) 0.3M, IM. The animals were euthanized by cervical dislocation one hour after treatment. The effects of the different anesthetics on the MM were evaluated histologically and by electronic microscopy (EM). Ca-ATPase and membrane lipid peroxidation (LPX) were evaluated in muscle homogenates under the same conditions as those used to prepare the histological sections. Results: In general, structural damage and increased muscle contraction were observed in tissues treated with anesthetics. The most extreme values of Ca-ATPase activity and LPX were observed in the positive control group (carrageenin). Results were analyzed by one-way ANOVA for multiple comparisons and Tukey’s test (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The results suggest that in the short term, local anesthetics affect the muscle function and are associated to structural changes.
Linking land-use management and aquatic carbon : effects of forestry and peatland rewetting
Authors: Zannella Alberto
Published: October 2024

To manage the forested landscape in a sustainable way while maintaining or even improving its carbon (C) sequestration capacity is a key challenge in climate change mitigation strategies. An often neglected aspect in this context is how different management practices affect the export of terrestrial C via the aquatic pathway. In intensively managed boreal landscapes like Sweden, a dense network of man-made drainage ditches designed to promote forest growth receives high amounts of terrestrial C, with implications for C balance estimates and downstream water quality. This thesis presents field-based observations on the effects of clear-cutting, ditch cleaning (DC), and rewetting of drained wetlands on aquatic C of different forms. First, I show that clear-cutting can shift CO2 concentration dynamics in a boreal ditch from being mostly hydrologically driven to being mainly controlled by light- and temperature-dependent metabolic processes. Second, I explore the effect of DC on runoff chemistry by comparing cleaned and uncleaned ditches. Some results were consistent with earlier studies (higher pH), while others show divergent (similar total organic C (TOC)) or novel (higher nitrous oxide (N2O) and lower CO2) patterns in cleaned compared to uncleaned ditches. These patterns are suggested to stem from deeper flow paths and altered redox conditions after DC. Finally, I assess the effects of rewetting of drained wetlands on aquatic C at local and regional scales. Among the results, it was evident that rewetting increased the dissolved concentrations of organic and inorganic C (DOC and DIC), and methane (CH4) in runoff, which in turn caused enhanced lateral C exports. However, the effects were site-, C form- and season-specific and were influenced by e.g. presence of openwater areas, latitude and nutrient status. The thesis provides an important knowledge basis to be used when implementing the examined management practices, to ensure intended outcomes with minimal negative consequences on runoff C.
Convergence of Stunting and Diarrhoea among Children in Peri-Urban Lusaka: A Cross-Sectional Study of Prevalence and Predictors
Authors: Hansakali Whisper , Mwange Austin
Published: October 2024

Background: In Zambia, stunting and diarrhoea—largely avoidable conditions—are significant contributors to death in children under five years of age. Large-scale studies commonly compare these variables between urban and rural settings, although they frequently neglect to consider the substantial socio-economic differences present within urban populations. This study sought to investigate the prevalence and co-occurrence of stunting and diarrhoea in peri-urban regions of Lusaka. Method: A cross-sectional study approach was utilized, focusing on 239 homes in Lusaka East, a peri-urban area of Zambia's capital city. The research concentrated on homes with a minimum of one kid between the ages of 6 and 23 months. Data collection utilized structured questionnaires distributed to guardians, documenting socio-demographic variables and sanitation practices. Children's anthropometric measures were standardized utilizing height-for-age z-scores (HAZ). The research employed bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis to investigate factors associated with malnutrition and diarrhoea. Results: The study included 232 children, with 53.8% (n=125) identified as female and 46.2% (n=107) as male. The median age of the children was 13 months (IQR ±8), whereas the median age of their guardians was 26 years (IQR ±9.5). The prevalence of stunting and diarrhoea was 24.1% (95% CI: 18.7–30.2%) and 19.4% (95% CI: 14.5–25.1%), respectively, with the highest rates observed in children aged 12 to 23 months. Significant predictors of stunting were identified as child gender (aOR: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.23–0.89), sanitation type (aOR: 2.35, 95% CI: 1.08–4.52), and the marital status of the guardian (aOR: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.01–2.88). In children with diarrhoea, gender (aOR: 0.41, 95% CI: 0.18–0.89) and the guardian's marital status (aOR: 2.80, 95% CI: 1.14–6.89) were identified as significant predictors. Conclusion: In conclusion, the study identified a significant prevalence of stunting, alongside a high incidence of diarrhoea in stunted children, potentially elevating the risk of childhood mortality. This highlights the necessity of strengthening primary healthcare services and improving community health education, with an emphasis on the early detection of stunting and the prevention of diarrhoea, especially in economically disadvantaged peri-urban areas in Zambia.