bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Relationship of High-performance Work System with Knowledge Workers' Work engagement through Indirect and Indirect Effects
Authors: Dr. Meenakshi Sehrawat Dr Asjad Usmani, Dr. Latika Malhotra, , Dr. Mannat Singh Dr. Rekha Dahiya,
Published: April 2024

This research work was undertaken to examine how the implementation of a high-performance work system (HPWS) affected the level of work engagement in Indian knowledge workers by observing the both direct and indirect effects. Research was carried out involving 202 knowledge workers from India. The study employed an online survey to gather information from the participants, and the data was obtained through a structured questionnaire. According to the study's findings, Indian knowledge workers recognized and valued the advantages of an HPWS (High Performance Work System) that embraced employees’ participation in important decisions, receive ongoing training and development, access pertinent information and knowledge, and have access to a well-structured performance evaluation system. Furthermore, the study demonstrated that Indian knowledge workers also acknowledged their level of engagement in their work, indicating a willingness to take on challenges, voluntarily assist colleagues and supervisors, and fully engage with their tasks. In general, HPWS reported for 35 per cent of the variability in job engagement and exhibited a positive connection with work assignment. The study's findings also showed that HPWS reported for 31 per cent of the alteration in psychological contract fulfillment, 22 per cent of the variance in workers' perceived organizational support in terms of resources, and 33 per cent of the variance in organizational identity among Indian knowledge workers. Notably, constructs like ‘psychological contract fulfillment,’ ‘organizational identity’ and ‘perception of job resources’ influenced the Indian knowledge workers’ ‘work engagement.’ Also, findings showed that in the context of Indian knowledge workers, factors such as the ‘psychological contract fulfillment,’ ‘perception of job resources,’ and ‘organizational identity’ played a role as partial mediators between High-Performance Work Systems (HPWS) and knowledge workers’ ‘work engagement.’ Moreover, 'job satisfaction' acted as a perfect intermediary or mediator between 'fulfillment of psychological contract' and 'work engagement'.
Block Chain Technology and Its Emerging Significance
Authors: Haritha. V Dr. Jawahar Rani, Hemavani. V,
Published: April 2024

Block chain technology is a decentralised, distributed ledger that stores the record of ownership of digital assets, any data stored on block chain is unable to be modified, making the technology a legitimate disruptor for industries like payments, cyber security and health care. Block chain technology has the potential to revolutionise interaction between governments, businesses and citizens in a manner that was unfathomable just a decade ago. Block chain has emerged to become a potentially transformative force in multiple aspects of government and private sector operations. Its potential has been recognized globally with a variety of international organisations and technology companies highlighting the benefits of its application in reducing the costs of operations and compliance, as well as in improving efficiencies .Future of Blockchain in the Finance Industry, Cybersecurity, Digital Advertising, Supply Chain Management and so on will ensure transparency in governance, ensure less cybercrime,  to promote marketing, reduce the human error with less cost and time. The study objective is to identify the country which supports blockchain, influencing factors and its impact on future of block chain. To achieve this objective, case study method is used, five different cases are taken to prove how the blockchain methodology support the managerial functions in various aspects. The study findings are supported by the advantages of using blockchain, how it helps the nations to reduce the time taken to accomplish the goals with transparency, to maximise the efficiency by adaptation of blockchain technology and to reduce the human intervention thereby reducing the prevalent cyber crime.
Role of Digital Transformation and Its Impact on Employee Readiness for Technology Changes Through Measurement of ‘Digital Prowess’ During Online Mode of Working
Authors: Dr Anshika, Dr. Indranil Mutsuddi, Dr Neetu Bali,
Published: April 2024

The global impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the emergence of the civil rights movement through technologies like Chat-GPT has given a highly complexly woven social and technical fabric to dwell upon. The capacity to visualize the evolving relationship between technology and social frames in organizations through online mode of working has been the focus of the current research. In this research, the ways in which the digital prowess of employees can be measured and enhanced through the online mode of working mode of engagement of an employee with an organization has been explored. A quantitative method (SEM) has been applied in the current study to study the socio-technical factors that interplay for employee effectiveness during online mode of working. This study investigates the affordance of digital technologies through the construct of digital prowess for enhancing employee efficacy at work during the online mode of working mode of working. A research model has been developed based on the socio materiality theory and affordance theory as the theoretical background. The results show that the digital prowess constitutes three dimensions namely technical acumen, uncertainty management, and ability to collaborate. Specifically, this study provides an impetus to the role of digital transformations and its impact on employee readiness for technology changes for effectiveness at work through affordances theory which advocates that human-technology interactions can be harnessed for problem-solving capabilities if the employees are empowered with competencies like digital prowess and ways to nurture this balance of technology embedded in social interactions.
Fintech's Transformative Influence on Traditional Banking Strategies and its Role in Enhancing Financial Inclusion
Authors: Srishti Singhal, Manvi Gupta Dr. Shivi Mittal, Anmol Tayal,
Published: April 2024

In the previous researches of authors, dynamics of cryptocurrency with use of blockchain technology has been studied and legal challenges in India as related with the applicability of cryptocurrency has been critically reviewed. Also, growing impact of blockchain technology on trading and businesses has been worked out whereby challenges in using the blockchain application in business has been figured out. This paper further tries to explore and examine the current state of using financial technology in the banking sector. Fintech has rapidly transformed traditional banking services, presenting both challenges and opportunities for financial institutions. The paper investigates into the key aspects of the role of fintech in the banking sector, examining the challenges faced by traditional banks and the opportunities that arise from embracing technological advancements. By conducting a comprehensive literature review, the authors aim to explore the utilization of technology across diverse facets of banking transactions, identifying challenges in its implementation, facts about enhanced role of technology in financial inclusion and more related data. The study also delves into future trends and the regulatory landscape of fintech within India's banking industry along with its scope around financial inclusivity. This paper holds significance for scholars, researchers, and banking professionals alike, providing insights into the methodology of employing technology for secure transactions in banks. The work introduces a meticulously reviewed and integrated framework, offering practitioners an understanding of the current scenario and potential future implications.
The Undeserved Indignity: Making a Case for Muslim Dignity
Authors: Ms Aditi Gupta, Dr Apala Vatsa,
Published: April 2024

A simple definition of Human dignity describes it as a worth attached to every human being, by virtue of being born as a human. But is the situation really so simple? Several instances reveal that the notion, nature and operation of dignity evade such simplistic definitions. As we delve deeper, an important question surfaces: how is it that dignity remains most elusive for the Muslim populations? The so-defined age of Terror further justifies such loss of dignity for the Muslim populations. It must be stressed however, that while terror events like 9/11 (the USA) or 7/7 (London, UK) or 9/7 (New Delhi, India), have served to resuscitate the fear of the radical other (that is, the Muslims) these attitudes go back a long time in history. It is reflected in the general outlook towards Muslims. Undoubtedly, there remain a section of terrorists, who borrow from a particular interpretation of Islam. But is this cause enough for the wholesale othering of the Muslim community? Having to live as second- rate people despite being citizens, being saddled with assumed linkages to terrorism; these are just a few dimensions of the otherising discourse. Islam comes into the picture not only because the ‘terrorists’, in some cases, have been Muslims, but also because these radical sections forward Islam as the source of their actions. We need to question the uncritical homogenizing that follows such revelations, viz. all Muslims are terrorists, Islam is a violent religion, Muslims are disloyal and radical, so on and so forth. The perpetual tagging as the potential terrorists causes not only an irretrievable loss of identity, but also a fatal blow to one’s dignity. Here, Kant’s notion of dignity becomes useful for understanding the problem of Muslim indignity.
Examining the Random Walk Hypothesis: An investigation of the Indian stock market
Authors: Anzud Animela Venkat Reddy Yasa, Sourav Biswas,
Published: April 2024

Using the Efficient Market Hypothesis (EMH) as the theoretical foundation, this research study explores the Random Walk Hypothesis in the context of the Indian stock market. By using the Runs Test to analyse the daily closing prices of eight well-known Indian companies between January 1, 2018, and June 30, 2021, the study finds that patterns in stock prices in the Indian stock market show weak-form efficiency and are consistent with the Random Walk Hypothesis. The analysis indicates that stock price movements are largely unpredictable and devoid of discernible patterns, aligning with the notions posited by proponents of the Efficient Market Hypothesis. The research underscores significant implications, validating the presence of weak-form efficiency and emphasizing the need for alternative analytical approaches in investment strategies. Despite inherent limitations, this study contributes to ongoing discourse on market efficiency and financial dynamics, advocating for interdisciplinary approaches and global perspectives to refine understanding and facilitate more informed investment decisions in the Indian capital market.
“Online Teaching in Times of COVID-19 in India and Palestinian Universities: Challenges and Antidotes"
Authors: Sharma Dr. Soni
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Covid-19 pandemic has influenced universities across the world to make an abrupt shift from face-to-face teaching to digital/online teaching. The present paper investigates challenges experienced by Indian and Palestinian universities while teaching online in times of Covid-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from instructors of four Palestinian and Indian universities using a semi-tailored electronic questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS.

Findings

Results showed that unique challenges experienced by four Palestinian and four Indian universities’ instructors when teaching online during the Covid-19 pandemic include difficulty in receiving feedback from students in online classes compared to traditional face-to-face classes; difficulty in categorizing students into sub-groups to facilitate group working; and unfavorable online environment at home because of the presence of other family members and children. On the basis of this study’s findings, universities should prepare for future crises by ensuring instructors are competent and have knowledge in information communication technologies (ICT) as well as take into consideration the development and enhancement of the quality of online (virtual) courses delivered during emergencies.

Originality

This paper aims to research the implications involved in online teaching and online learning. Through data collection, this research paper was able to measure the impact and suggest recommendations.

Practical implications

Study in the research will contribute to overcome the challenges of stakeholders involved in education profession. Online teaching and learning, both had its own challenge and discomfort whilst implementing it.

Social implications

This research will help to strengthen the bond between educators and learners. Online teaching and learning created an unsaid interest and dilution in education world. This research can pave the way to develop better understanding between stakeholders.
INVESTIGATION OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN COGNITIVE LEVEL AND UPPER EXTREMITY FUNCTIONS IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC STROKE
Authors: Aslan Hilal , Baskan Emre
Published: April 2024

Objective: Cognitive impairment and loss of upper limb functions are common after stroke and these two components can influence each other in anatomical and functional contexts. In this study, it was aimed to examine the relationship between cognitive level and upper extremity functions in patients with chronic stroke.
Method: The study included 39 individuals diagnosed with stroke, in the chronic phase and with a mean age of 61.33±12.71 years, who were evaluated at Pamukkale University Hospital. Standardized Mini Mental Test (SMMT) and Stroop Test Basic Sciences Research Group (TBAG) Form were used to evaluate the cognitive levels of individuals. Fugl Meyer Upper Extremity Rating Scale, Frenchay Arm Test and Box-Block Test were used to evaluate upper extremity functions.
Results: When the findings of the study were examined, statistically significant relationships were found between the Standardized Mini Mental Test and the Fugl Meyer Upper Extremity Rating Scale, Frenchay Arm Test and Box-Block Test (p
Acute Medical Care: “Exit block”
Authors:   Editor-in-Chief Consultant in Acute Medicine Manchester University Foundation Trust and The Christie, Cooksley Tim
Published: April 2024

NHS urgent and emergency care (UEC) remains under immense and unsustainable pressure. This is increasingly causing harm to patients and emotional trauma to the staff striving to deliver basic standards of care.
Improving emergency department flow by introducing a simple time out moment (The TRAFFIC LIGHT study)
Authors:   Section General Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam Public Health research Institute, Amsterdam UMC,  Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam,  the Netherlands, Overgaauw Audrey JC , Ligthart Marijn ,   Section General Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam Public Health research Institute, Amsterdam UMC,  Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam,  the Netherlands, Azilji Kaoutar ,   Department of Emergency Medicine, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC,  Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam,  the Netherlands, Minderhoud Tanca C ,   Section General Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam Public Health research Institute, Amsterdam UMC,  Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam,  the Netherlands, Sikkens Jonne J ,   Section General Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam Public Health research Institute, Amsterdam UMC,  Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam,  the Netherlands, Biesheuvel Tessa H ,   Department of Emergency Medicine, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC,  Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam,  the Netherlands, Nanayakkara Prabath Wb ,   Section General Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam Public Health research Institute, Amsterdam UMC,  Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam,  the Netherlands
Published: April 2024

Background and importance: Long waiting times in the emergency department (ED) is an increasing problem in the recent years and is expected to become an even bigger problem in the future Objective: We aimed to test the hypothesis whether increasing awareness of the time lapse with the treating physician, 2 hours after patient arrival, can reduce long patient turnaround time (TAT). Method: In this prospective single-center cohort study we compared and analyzed patient TAT in the ED before and after implementation of a so called ‘traffic light’ moment 2 hours after patient arrival. At this ‘traffic light” moment a team member contacted the treating physician to increased awareness over the time lapse. Difference in percentage of patients who stayed more than 4 hours in the ED before and after intervention was the primary outcome Results: Between October 2nd 2021 and January 2nd,2022 1494 patients were included for primary outcome analysis. A total of 419 patients (n=740, 56.6%) had a TAT of less than 4 hour in the ED before intervention, compared to 497 (n=754, 65.9%) after intervention (p <0.001). Median time spent in de ED before intervention was 3:40 (IQR 2:24 – 5:04) compared to 3:15 (IQR 2:03 – 4:38) after intervention (p<0.001). Conclusion: This simple and low-cost intervention reduces the ED length of stay significantly. Although multiple interventions will be required to ensure less patients spending more than 4-hours in the ED, a ‘traffic light’ moment can be a simple and an effective tool.
Evaluating dynamic patterns in mortality before and after reconfiguration of the Danish emergency healthcare system
Authors:   MD, PhD, Department of Emergency Medicine, Hospital of South West Jutland, Esbjerg, Denmark, Fløjstrup Marianne ,   Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Esbjerg, Denmark, Kollerup Anna ,   MSc, PhD, VIVE - The Danish Center for Social Science Research, Copenhagen, Denmark, Bogh Søren B. ,   MSc, PhD, Open Patient Exploratory Network (OPEN), University of Southern Denmark and Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark,   Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark, Bech Mickael ,   MSc, PhD, VIVE - The Danish Center for Social Science Research, Copenhagen, Denmark, Henriksen Daniel ,   MD, Phd, Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark, Johnsen Søren P. ,   MD, PhD, Danish Centre for Clinical Health Services Research, Aalborg Universitet, Aalborg, Denmark, Brabrand Mikkel ,   MD, PhD, Department of Emergency Medicine, Hospital of South West Jutland, Esbjerg, Denmark,   Department of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Esbjerg, Denmark,   Department of Emergency Medicine, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
Published: April 2024

Background: This study explored changes in short-term mortality during a national reconfiguration of emergency care starting in 2007. Methods: Unplanned hospital contacts at emergency departments across Denmark from 2007 to 2016. The reconfiguration was a natural experiment, resulting in individual timelines for each hospital. The outcome was in-hospital and 30-day mortality. Results: Individual patient-level data included 9,745,603 unplanned hospital contacts from 2007 to 2016 at 20 hospitals with emergency departments. We observed a sharp downwards shift in in-hospital mortality and 30-day mortality in three hospitals in relation to the reconfiguration. Conclusion: This nationwide study identified three hospitals where the reconfiguration was closely associated with reduced in-hospital and 30-day mortality. In contrast, no major effects were identified for the remaining hospitals.
Implementing a Digital Deteriorating Patient Pathway to improve the safety and effectiveness of care of the adult deteriorating patient
Authors:   The Dudley Group NHSFT, Jennings Adrian , Brammer Philip ,   The Dudley Group NHSFT, Annakin Sian ,   The Dudley Group NHSFT, Bromage Helen ,   The Dudley Group NHSFT, Cook Tom ,   The Dudley Group NHSFT, Hickey Michele ,   The Dudley Group NHSFT, Dhami Jagjit ,   The Dudley Group NHSFT, Ashraf Fhezan ,   The Dudley Group NHSFT, Sahota-Thandi Ravi ,   The Dudley Group NHSFT, Borrington Stephen ,   The Dudley Group NHSFT
Published: April 2024

Identification, escalation and clinical review of the deteriorating patient is essential for a safe and effective hospital. We present a deteriorating patient pathway developed within our electronic patient record, including implementation of a digital escalation and senior review process, triggered from a logic algorithm and vital signs. The pathway is activated by an average 43 patients per day with median mortality of 13.3%. Our Trust has seen a significant improvement in escalation and senior review and increased use of treatment escalation plans. The pathway has facilitated a cultural shift in the Trust towards the deteriorating patient. The new pathway is transferrable to both other digital Trusts as well as maternity and paediatric practice.
Improving Telemetry use in the Acute Assessment Unit
Authors:   Internal Medicine Trainee 3, Timmons Patrick , Reid Lindsay ,   Consultant Physician in Acute Internal Medicine,  Forth Valley Royal Hospital, Clare Kathleen ,   Internal Medicine Trainee 2,  Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Beckett Daniel ,   Consultant Physician in Acute Internal Medicine,  Forth Valley Royal Hospital, Thomson Tegan ,   Advanced Clinical Practitioner in Acute Internal Medicine,  Forth Valley Royal Hospital, Fabisiak Lisa ,   Lead Advanced Clinical Practitioner, Forth Valley Royal Hospital
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims: Despite published guidelines, telemetry use is inappropriate in 25-43% of cases. This impacts patient safety and telemetry effectiveness. QI methodology was used to review telemetry in a hospital acute medical unit with the aim of reducing inappropriate use and addressing alarm fatigue. Methods: A ‘Telemetry Indication Form’ was created. Eight weeks of baseline data was collated before introducing the ‘Indication Form’. Four plan-do-study-act cycles were conducted. At each cycle, data was analysed using statistical process control charts. Results: Inappropriate telemetry use significantly reduced from 32% to 4%. Total telemetry use also fell. Unfortunately, interventions to address alarm rates did not result in significant reduction in false alarms. Conclusions: A ‘Telemetry Indication Form’ has significant potential to improve patient safety through reducing inappropriate use.
Point of Care Ultrasound Bladder Volume Calculation on the Acute Medical Unit
Authors:   Ultrasound fellow, Royal Berkshire Hospital, Nunan Joseph , Lister Tom ,   Head of Medical Physics, Royal Berkshire Hospital, Howgill Harriet ,   Acute Medicine Nurse, Royal Berkshire Hospital, Parreno Mia Marie Merced ,   Practice Educator,  Acute Medical Unit,  Royal Berkshire Hospital, Brown Guy ,   Department of Medical Physics, Royal Berkshire Hospital, Walden Andrew ,   Consultant, Royal Berkshire Hospital
Published: April 2024

Nursing staff, healthcare assistants (HCAs) and other healthcare professionals on the Acute Medical Unit (AMU) at Royal Berkshire Hospital (RBH) were taught a Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) skill during a twenty minute session. Practitioners learned how to take bladder volume measurements with the Butterfly iQ, a portable ultrasound device which provides a visually-aided method of volume measurement. A Likert scale was used to measure the confidence that staff had in performing volume measurements with the AMU automated scanners, and with the semi-automated Butterfly iQ. After the teaching session, confidence reported by practitioners in using the semi-automated visual method was significantly higher than confidence reported in using the automated non-visual scanners (t < 0.001). Minimal time and expense was required to teach practitioners how to perform this skill. Training nurses in POCUS for bladder visualisation and bladder volume calculation is easy and practicable.
Point-of-care ultrasound for the diagnosis of an atypical small bowel obstruction in a cannabis user: a case report
Authors:   Emergency Departement, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc (CUSL), Brussels, Belgium, Beshir Alaa , Bruyns Jonas ,   Emergency Departement, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc (CUSL), Brussels, Belgium, Thoma Maximilien ,   Emergency Departement, Departement of abdominal surgery and transplantation, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc (CUSL), Brussels, Belgium, Dupriez Florence ,   Emergency Departement, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc (CUSL), Brussels, Belgium
Published: April 2024

This case report describes an atypical small bowel obstruction in a 71- years old cannabis user and how point-of-care of ultrasound (PoCUS) helped to its management by further orientating the physician toward the bowel obstruction etiology, namely intussusception. Intussusception is the invagination of an intestinal segment into the adjacent segment. The acute clinical presentation of intussusception often has non-specific symptoms, and the diagnosis can be challenging. While the most common etiology is neoplasm, intussusception also occurs in bowel motility disorder such as after cannabis use. Although this case report illustrates intussusception PoCUS findings, these should nevertheless be integrated into the clinical picture and CT-scan should remain the gold standard complementary examination in case of a suspected bowel obstruction.
An unexpected case of acute intermittent porphyria
Authors:   MBBS, Charing Cross Hospital,  Fulham Palace Road, London, W6 8RF, Jesuthasan Aaron , Wride Michael ,   MBBS, Charing Cross Hospital,  Fulham Palace Road, London, W6 8RF, Esdaile Harriet ,   MBBS, Charing Cross Hospital,  Fulham Palace Road, London, W6 8RF, Daneshmend Adam ,   BM BS, Charing Cross Hospital,  Fulham Palace Road, London, W6 8RF
Published: April 2024

Acute Intermittent Porphyria (AIP) can be a challenging diagnosis to make, due to its rarity in actual practice and presenting symptoms often being attributed to more common conditions. This is particularly the case, since many patients will likely present to acute and general hospitals where the diagnosis may often not be considered. However, it remains pivotal to diagnose the condition as early as possible to prevent significant morbidity and even death. Here we present an unexpected case of AIP, illustrating the diagnostic delay that is commonly seen with the condition and yet emphasise the importance of its detection to commence urgent treatment.
Brief Coping Scale TCS-9: Optimising the Assessment of Coping Strategies. The case of Health Care Workers.
Authors: Puri Basant K. , Miari Anastasia , Theodoratou Maria
Published: April 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the focus on mental health, particularly on the coping strategies of healthcare workers who have faced unparalleled stress due to their pivotal role in addressing health disparities and determinants of health. Constantly operating in high-risk environments and managing the surge of critically ill patients, these professionals’ psychological resilience has been sternly tested, necessitating robust assessment tools.

Aim

This study aims to refine the extensive 54-item Toulouse Coping Scale into a more pragmatic and less time-consuming instrument while preserving its statistical integrity, to support the mental well-being of healthcare workers.

Setting

The setting for this study was amongst healthcare workers in Greece, during the COVID-19 pandemic, a period marked by significant psychological demands on medical staff.

Methods

We conducted an unbiased exploratory factor analysis on the Toulouse Coping Scale’s 54 items, drawing from a sample of 144 healthcare workers, adhering to strict methodological criteria.

Results

Data completeness was achieved across the sample, which comprised 40 (28%) males and 104 (72%) females, predominantly aged between 31 and 50 years. The final instrument, encapsulating two domains with a total of nine questions, demonstrated strong internal consistency, with an eigenvalue of 3.438 for the first domain and 1.478 for the second, validated by a scree plot.

Conclusion

The streamlined TCS-9 scale facilitates a more rapid assessment of coping strategies while reducing redundancy. The two-domain structure ensures that the revised scale retains the original’s thoroughness in a more concise form.

Contribution

By enabling quicker and more efficient evaluations, the TCS-9 enhances the practicality of assessing coping mechanisms in healthcare settings, thereby contributing to the sustenance of health systems and the promotion of health equity.
Las cocinas comunitarias como patrimonio de la protesta social: experiencias del levantamiento indígena y popular en Ecuador, 2022
Authors: De Veintimilla Ana
Published: April 2024

This article narrates the resurgence of community kitchens in Ecuador during the 2022 national uprising when, once again, the Indigenous movement and citizens mobilized to demand the fulfillment of their requests, including that of a post-extractivist Ecuador. In this context, the community kitchens activated in the capital city Quito were a vital space for sustaining social protest and promoting encounter, creativity, and solidarity. Historically, culinary heritage has been instrumentalized by hegemonic groups to reinforce their power and domination over the rest of the population; however, as a volunteer in several kitchens during the days of the protest, I show how community kitchens are counter-hegemonic traditions and weave emancipatory meanings.
Las hormigas culonas: entre patrimonio biocultural y plaga (Santander, Colombia)
Authors: Aguilera Orlando , Katz Esther , Césard Nicolas
Published: April 2024

The study focuses on the consumption of big-bottomed ants (hormigas culonas), Atta laevigata (F. Smith, 1858), in the department of Santander, Colombia. It analyzes the complex interactions between local communities and these insects, which are appreciated as a regional food heritage but are also seen as pests due to the significant damage they cause to crops. It highlights the importance of local knowledge in collecting ants and how their commercialization has experienced a remarkable increase, partly due to the migration of Santander residents and tourism. The article also discusses the ecological importance of leafcutter ants in ecosystems. In addition, it suggests the need for a broader approach to preserve these species, considering their role in nature and exploring strategies for coexistence with other species cataloged as pests. It argues that food heritage can play a crucial role in promoting these approaches.
Debates y reflexiones desde el patrimonio cultural frente al “Plan especial de salvaguardia: saberes y tradiciones asociados a la manifestación del viche/biche del Pacífico colombiano”
Authors: Salge Manuel
Published: April 2024

The text discusses the “Plan especial de salvaguardia: saberes y tradiciones asociados a la manifestación del viche/biche del Pacífico colombiano” [“Special Safeguarding Plan: Knowledge and Traditions Associated with the Manifestation of Viche/Biche of the Colombian Pacific”,] elaborated by the Colombian Ministry of Cultures, Arts, and Knowledges in 2023 as an instrument for the management of viche, an artisanal beverage included in the nation’s intangible heritage lists. Each of the document’s components is analyzed, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses and proposing some strategies in order to complement them. The general reflection falls within the framework of critical cultural heritage studies, aiming to contribute to the development of more reflexive cultural public policies. The article warns about the processes of patrimonialization that undermine the balance between the environment, the people, their manifestations, and cultural practices underlying the universe of traditional cuisines.
High-resolution imagery of the coral reefs of Gorgona Island, Colombian Pacific Ocean: an improved view for monitoring and research
Authors: Mejía-Rentería Juan C , Cantera-Kintz Jaime R , Zapata Fernando A
Published: April 2024

The shape and size of a coral reef are both key factors influencing its ecology and biodiversity. These parameters play a fundamental role in the creation of specific habitats that support rich biodiversity. They also greatly influence a coral reef's resilience to climatic events and
external influences. Here we present a practical example of photogrammetric reconstruction of the best developed coral reefs of the Colombian Pacific, located at Gorgona Island. Using unoccupied aerial vehicles (drones) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), we produced high resolution
orthophotomosaics and precise contour maps of four reefs and updated estimates of reef areas. We illustrate the improved accuracy of these maps in comparison with maps obtained from satellite imagery and conclude by highlighting the usefulness of drones to locate, measure, and monitor small
coral reefs.
Perspectives from an eDNA metabarcoding pilot project in the Banggai MPA, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Moore Abigail M , Yasir Inayah , Tassaka A Citra M , Ndobe Samliok , Umar Widyastuti , Kadir Nadiarti N , Putri Amanda P , Yusuf Syafyuddin , Barber Paul H , Jompa Jamaluddin
Published: April 2024

The Banggai MPA is one of many Indonesian MPAs established or reestablished as a result of the shift from regency to provincial level governance over waters 0–4 NM from shore under Act 23/2014. The MPA covers a substantial proportion of Banggai Archipelago coastal ecosystems and around 90% of endangered Banggai cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni) endemic habitat. An expedition in 1998 reported high fish biodiversity; however, logistics and taxonomic expertise requirements mean that similar methods are not realistic for collecting baseline or monitoring biodiversity data to support MPA management. A pilot project in 2018 collected water samples (four shallow-water coastal sites, three replicates per site) around Banggai Island for environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding using two molecular markers: COI mtDNA and 12S rRNA. COI data were overwhelmingly dominated by a few phytoplankton species, reflecting challenges using this marker in areas with dense phytoplankton, and could not be analyzed further. The 12S rRNA sequences were processed and aggregated into amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) using the Anacapa Toolkit. These data provide a snapshot of fish diversity by site, although accumulation curves indicate three samples per site is insufficient to provide a comprehensive record. Identified taxa overlapped and exceeded in number those detected in 1998. The percentage of ASVs unassigned at species and genus level (e.g., gobies and cardinalfishes) and taxonomic ambiguities indicate a need for combined classical taxonomic and barcoding studies to enhance nucleotide databases (GenBank/BOLD), ideally with regional voucher specimen repositories. Furthermore, the study revealed the need for further capacity building in metabarcoding data analysis.
Yerel Yönetimlerde Kentsel Dönüşüm Strateji Önermesi Şişli Örneği
Authors: Alas Birol , Çelebi İlker
Published: April 2024

Son yirmi yılda Türkiye’de meydana gelen depremler sonrası gündeme gelen ve yoğun tartışılan kentsel dönüşüm kavramı, kısa zaman içinde tekrar gündemden düşmektedir. Kentsel dönüşüm adı altında kentsel mekanda yapılan uygulamalar ise çoğunlukla yüksek nitelikli konutların yer aldığı projeler olarak dikkat çekmektedir. Kentsel dönüşüm için çıkarılan yasalar kullanılarak yapılan bu rant projeleri, bütünlükten kopuk ve çoğu zaman kentin kimliğine aykırı yapılar olarak ortaya çıkmaktadır. Bu projelerden elde edilen gelirler ise kentlerin afetlere dayanıklı hale getirilmesine yönelik çalışmalarda da kullanılmamaktadır. Stratejik yönetim yaklaşımı ile Kent merkezlerinde yer alan potansiyel alanları tespit edilerek ve bu alanlardan üretilecek değeri/rantı çöküntü ya da gecekondu alanlarının dönüşümünde kullanılması mümkündür. Bu makalede, ketnsel rantın arz-talep dengesi gözetilerek yeniden ele alınması ve üretilecek rant ile kamuya herhangi bir yük getirmeden, barınma hakkı kapsamında, insanlara belirli şartlara bağlı olarak oturdukları konutları bedelsiz yenileyecek bir model önerisi sunulmaktadır. Önerilen strateji ile yerleşim bütününde sürdürülebilir bir kentsel dönüşüm döngüsü oluşturarak, kent bütününde kentsel dönüşümü sağlamak mümkün olacaktır. Aynı zamanda bu tür uygulamalar kentsel rantın toplum yararına ve yine kent için kullanılmasına olanak sağlayarak kamuya olan güvenin artması sonucunu doğuracaktır. Makalede yer alan önerme için Şişli İlçesi örnek olarak seçilmiş ve ilçe bütününde kentsel dönüşüm stratejisi oluşturulmuştur. Bu kapsamda, kentin değer yaratma potansiyeli olan bölgeleri tespit edilerek bu bölgelerden elde edilen kentsel gelirin diğer bölgelerdeki kentsel dönüşümü finanse edecek bir model geliştirilmiştir.
Besni (Adıyaman) İlçesinde Doğal Yayılış Gösteren Geofitlerin Dağılımı ve Korunması
Authors: Özcan Şener
Published: April 2024

Bu çalışma kapsamında Besni (Adıyaman) ilçesinin geofit çeşitliliğinin dağılımı araştırıldı. Türler ve/veya habitatları üzerindeki tehdit faktörü belirlendi ve korumaya yönelik önerilerde bulunuldu. 2018-2023 yılları arasında araştırma alanından toplanan 235 geofit bitki örneğinin sistematik değerlendirilmesi sonucu 29 familya ve 59 cinse ait 130 tür ve türaltı takson tespit edildi. Bunların %3,07’si Pteridophyta bölümüne, %23,07’si Magnoliopsida (Dicotyledon) sınıfına ve %73,84’ü Liliopsida (Monocotyledon) sınıfına aittir. En çok takson içeren familyaların tüm familyalar içindeki oranı Asparagaceae %16,92, Orchidaceae %13,84, Iridaceae %8,46, Ranunculaceae %8,46, Amaryllidaceae %8,46 ve Liliaceae %7,69’dur. En çok takson içeren cinsler sırasıyla Ranunculus (9), Allium (9), Ophrys (7), Ornithogalum (6), Crocus (5), ve Colchicum (5)’dir. Geofitlerin %36,15’i bulblu, %30,76’sı tuberli, %23,84’ü rizomlu ve %9,23’ü kormludur. Taksonların %43,07’si İran-Turan, %13,07’ü Doğu Akdeniz, %9,23’ü Akdeniz ve %4,61’i Avrupa-Sibirya elementidir. Bölgesi belirlenemeyen ya da çok bölgeli taksonların oranı %30’dur. Besni ilçesi geofit takson çeşitliliği bakımından zengindir (10,15 takson sayısı/100 km2). Taksonlar büyük oranda 700 m ve 900 m arasında değişen yükseltilerde doğal yayılış göstermektedir ve kış yağışları, ilkbahar yağmurları ve sonbahar yağmurları ile çiçeklenmektedir (%81,81’i ilkbahar, %9,09’u sonbahar %8,48’i kış ve %0,6’ı yaz). Endemizm oranı %12,30’dur. Besni’de yayılış gösteren geofitler ve/veya habitatları üzerindeki tehdit oluşturan unsurları şunlardır: %20 tarımsal faaliyet, %16,92 rekrasyon alanı, %13,84 aşırı otlatma, %13,07 aşırı toplama, %10,76 endüstriyel alan, %6,92 yabanıl hayvan baskısı, %5,38 yol açma ve yol genişletme, %4,61 kentleşme, %3,07 ormansızlaştırma, %3,07 kirlilik ve %2,3 bataklık kurutma. Türler üzerindeki en büyük tehdit antropojenik etki kaynaklı habitat tahribatıdır.
Family functioning, social support and quality of life among elderly in the Public Health Center III South Denpasar
Authors: Dewianti  , Adhi Kadek Tresna , Kuswardhani R.A. Tuty
Published: April 2024

The elderly population has increased alongside with the increasing of life expectancy in elderly. Unfortunately, this is not followed by increased quality of life among elderly. Interview with 10 elderly at the Public Health Center III South Denpasar revealed that they experienced loneliness and felt neglected which affect their quality of life. This study aims to determine the relationship between family functioning, social supports (friends, family and community) and quality of life of elderly at the Public Health Center III South Denpasar in 2013. This study is a cross-sectional, involving 125 elderly who still have a partner and was selected using systematic random sampling method. Agreed participants were interviewed to obtain data related to family function, social support (partner, family and community) as well as their quality of life. Data were analysed using univariate, bivariate and multivariate. Statistical testing used were chi-square test and logistic regression. The study revealed that most of the elderly has a low quality of life (62.4%), a low family functioning (72%), lack of family support (54.4%) and lack of community support (67.2%); however, most of them has a high support from their partner (54.4%). The chi square test result showed that function of family, social support (friends, family, and community) were significantly associated with quality of life in elderly (p<0.05). Results of logistic regression showed that function of family has a significant relation with quality of life in elderly (p<0.05). It can be concluded that better family functioning improves the quality of life in elderly.
The Competency, Financial Compensation, Supervision and Performance of the Village Midwives in the Bangli Regency
Authors: Adiputri Ari , Wijaya I Putu Ganda , Karmaya I Nyoman Mangku
Published: April 2024

Objectives: To determine the relationship between the performance of village midwives with competency, financial compensation and supervision in the Bangli Regency.

Methods: The research is a cross-sectional design with a total sample of 45 midwives of Bangli Regency. Data were collected through interviews by using questionnaires in their village. Dependent variabel is the performance of village midwives. Independent variables of this research were competency, financial compensation and supervision. The data were analyzed by using univariate, bivariate (chi-squared test) and multivariate (logistic regression).

Results: The univariate analysis indicates that the performance of village midwives is mostly unfavorable (62.2%). The multivariate analysis indicates that the most significant variable was supervision with OR=25.06 (95%CI: 3.24-193.50). Financial compensation and competency were less significant with OR=13.27 (95%CI: 1.49-118.21) and OR=11.31 (95%CI: 1.45-88.21).

Conclusion: Supervision was a more influential factor than financial compensation and competency into increasing the performance of village midwives in the Bangli Regency.
Instruments for evaluating social support networks for Brazilian elderly people: a scoping review
Authors: Ferreira Camila Rocha , Sanches Marília Fiorezzi Taborda Vieira , Matos Germanne Patricia Nogueira Bezerra Rodrigues , Rebustini Flavio , Domingues Marisa Accioly Rodrigues da Costa
Published: April 2024

Social support network assessment scales, with adequate psychometric characteristics, can support professionals and services for elderly-centered care. Objective: To map social support network instruments for elderly people with evidence of validity for Brazil. Method: This is a scoping review, in accordance with the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis and PRISMA-ScR guidelines. The databases used were AgeLine, Pubmed, Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, PsycInfo, SCOPUS, Web of Science, Capes Portal and SciELO, without time or language limitations. Results: Of the 1.632 studies identified, 12 were included and systematized into three categories: 09 instruments validated for Brazilian Portuguese covering all ages; 01 instrument not validated for Brazilian Portuguese; and 02 Brazilian and exclusive instruments for people 60 or over. Conclusion: Social support networks were mentioned as a powerful factor in ensuring care, and it is essential to provide instruments to evaluate them during the aging process. This review demonstrates the scarcity and highlights the importance of developing scales compatible with the specificities of the Brazilian old age population.
MINIMISING HEALTH RISKS AND ENHANCING RESIDENTIAL BUILDING OCCUPANTS’ SAFETY IN NIGERIA
Authors: O. K. Akande , L. C. Obi-George , C. Y. Makun , C. O. Ekeke , A. M. Basil
Published: April 2024

Housing as an essential component of human life has not been given prominence in global health. Meanwhile, housing conditions can significantly impact the physical, mental, and social well-being of residents. In Nigeria, poor housing habitability is a threat to public health which has exacerbated building-related illnesses (BRI), and triggered outbreaks of infectious diseases among the residents. This research examined the quality of housing and habitability provision in Nigeria with a view to minimise health risks and enhance the residents’ physical, mental, and social well-being. A structured questionnaire was administered to 120 respondents to solicit relevant data for the study. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the collated data at various levels of the research. Findings indicate a significant effect of poor housing conditions such as inadequate ventilation, dampness, and overcrowding on the wellbeing of occupants in dwellings, which lead to outbreaks of infectious diseases such as respiratory illnesses, allergies, and psychological distress. The study concludes that inadequate and poor housing quality promote poor building habitability, causing outbreak of infectious diseases and increased health risk for occupants. The study recommends that authorities in the housing sector should provide policies to ensure adequate and well-constructed housing for adequate habitation, promoting health and safety of occupants and reducing the rate of outbreaks of infectious diseases. Also, there should be continuous public enlightenment among the people on the health implications of their living conditions to minimise health risk. Keywords: Building habitability, diseases outbreak, health risk, residential houses, occupants safety, Nigeria
TRANSFORMATION OF PASSIVE DESIGN ELEMENTS FOR ACHIEVING THERMAL COMFORT IN RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS OF MANSEHRA CITY, PAKISTAN FROM 1990 TO 2019
Authors: Awan Muhammad Ashar , Iftakhar Nazia , Bhatti Omer Shujat
Published: April 2024

Among the most evolving issues in recent years, there is growing concern over global warming throughout the world. The construction industry has been considered among the major contributors to global warming. The use of building envelope along with the heating, cooling, and lighting design, operations, and infrastructures are the prime factors of this contribution. Due to this reason, the thermal comfort of buildings has become a major concern in building design globally. The following research explored the building design elements used for thermal comfort in residential buildings of Mansehra City of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in Pakistan and analyzed its transformation during the last three decades. The study proceeded by documenting and comparing various design elements to understand their transformation within documented time periods i.e. thermal mass, fixed shading devices, and the ratio of open and closed spaces. These elements were evaluated for their effectiveness in providing thermal comfort. It was concluded that these design elements have been adapted and modified with time with little concern for sustainability. It was found that the focus has shifted from building orientation, sun path, and wind directions to aesthetically pleasing forms only which makes them saleable and lack human comfort. The use of passive means to achieve thermal comfort was neglected. The research concludes by suggesting incorporation of appropriate thermal comfort components and methods into effective solutions for improved building designs, lower energy demand, and a better indoor atmosphere. Keywords: Thermal Comfort, Passive Design, Residential Building, Mansehra City, Global Warming