bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A framework for skills development for employability in Botswana’s competitive accounting environment
Authors: Munjeyi Edmore , Schutte Danie
Published: October 2024

Orientation: The accounting labour market has undergone a metamorphosis in recent years, leading to new demands for generic skills. Universities have responded to the new demands by implementing several reforms in the accounting curriculum to address skills gap. Despite these major reforms, educational expectation gap is persistent in Botswana.Research purpose: The purpose of this study was to develop a framework for skills development for employability in the competitive and dynamic accounting environment in Botswana.Motivation for the study: A skills gap was identified, implying the need for a framework for skills development for employability in the competitive and dynamic environment, thereby improving the graduate’s pervasive skills.Research design, approach and method: This study employs a qualitative research approach to extract and analyse key themes, quotes and insights from recent reports submitted to Institutions of Higher Learning (IHLs) by students and industrial supervisors. Utilising thematic data analysis, this research systematically examines the qualitative data gathered to elucidate the effectiveness of competency frameworks as perceived by both parties.Main findings: Institutions of Higher Learning in Botswana are mandated to equip students with job market-relevant skills. However, graduates often fall short in critical areas such as advanced cognitive abilities, socio-behavioural competencies and information technology (IT) proficiency, hindering their effective transition from academia to the workforce.Practical and/or managerial implications: The contribution and societal impact of this study are summed up in a proposed framework for skills development for employability in the competitive and dynamic accounting environment in Botswana.Contribution and/or value-add: The proposed framework is designed so that universities can equip students with soft skills needed in ever changing accounting environment.
Developing modelling competencies in pre-service mathematics teachers through reflective thinking skills
Authors: Bukari Hamidu Ibrahim , Govender Rajendran
Published: October 2024

Background: Ghana’s commitment to quality education has been reflected in its goal of providing equal access to high-quality education, leading to the reforms of the New Common Core Mathematics Curriculum for Basic Schools. The study explored the integration of mathematical modelling using reflective thinking skills, which are not currently core competencies in Ghanaian basic school curriculum.Aim: The study examined the modelling proficiency of pre-service mathematics teachers by assessing their reflective thinking abilities in a modelling laboratory context.Setting: The study focussed on pre-service mathematics teachers from two education colleges in Ghana.Methods: Using purposive sampling to select participants, a quasi-experimental design with pre- and post-test interventions was employed. Data were analysed through content and inferential analysis, supplemented by interviews.Findings: The findings indicated that the comparison group lacked prior knowledge of modelling problems and struggled with comprehension tasks. In contrast, the experimental group successfully translated real-world problems into mathematical models.Conclusion: Providing pre-service mathematics teachers access to a modelling laboratory and modelling-eliciting activities was essential for developing future modellers. This approach would enhance their effectiveness in teaching foundational mathematics in Ghanaian education.Contribution: This study advocated for re-orienting the mathematics curriculum at both Basic schools and Colleges of Education in Ghana to include mathematical modelling and reflective thinking skills as core components.
Analysis of changes in serum calcium and magnesium levels during plateletpheresis on different apheresis machines in healthy donors: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Gupta Ankit , Bundas Sunita , Sharma Sarita , Malakar Prem Chand
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND:

The most common observed complication of plateletpheresis procedure is hypocalcemia due to citrate’s chelation of free calcium. Magnesium is also affected by citrate infusion. We have evaluated the impact of plateletpheresis on the total serum calcium (Ca++) and magnesium (Mg++) levels of the donor.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

One hundred and thirty-seven healthy plateletpheresis donors were included in the study. Samples were collected from the donor at 0 min (baseline), 30 min, and 60 min, at the end of the procedure and 30 min after completion of the procedure. The pattern of changes in serum Ca++ and serum Mg++ levels at different time points for different apheresis machines (Fenwal Amicus, Fresenius COM.TEC, Spectra Optia, and Hemonetics MCS+) was studied.

RESULTS:

A significant decline in serum Ca++ and serum Mg++ levels from baseline to the end of the procedure was observed. This decline was observed maximum for Hemonetics MCS+. The baseline values were regained 30 min after completion of the procedure. Difference from baseline values 30 min after the procedure was lowest in amicus in the case of serum Ca++ and COM.TEC in case of serum Mg++. Twenty donors (14.60%) experienced adverse donor reactions.

CONCLUSION:

Serum calcium and serum magnesium levels decreased transiently during the procedure and regained normal values after 30 min of the completion of the plateletpheresis procedure on all four apheresis machines (whether based on continuous or intermittent centrifugation). Hence, it is concluded from our study that plateletpheresis is a well-tolerated and safe procedure.
Evaluation of foveal avascular zone changes in patients with type 1 diabetes using optical coherence topography angiography
Authors: El Din Eman F.S. , Ahmed Essam E.D.S. , Bayoumy Ahmed S.M. , El Sayed Ahmed Marwa , El Azim Gad Elham A.
Published: October 2024

Aim

To evaluate vascular changes in the foveal avascular zone in pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes by using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA).

Patients and methods

This cross-sectional study was performed in Benha University Hospital at Department of Ophthalmology. The patients were obtained from the Pediatric Endocrinology Clinic in Benha University Hospital. The study was conducted on 48 patients (96 eyes) divided into two groups: group A, 24 diabetic children with type 1 diabetes, group B, 24 healthy children of the same age and sex who met the inclusion criteria. The patients were collected from April 2022 to April 2023. The patients were photographed using the Optovue AngioVue OCTA System.

Results

Our results show that according to the foveal avascular zone it was slightly wider in type 1 diabetic cases with no clinically evident diabetes retinopathy (DR) than control. There were insignificant differences between the two groups as regards foveal density, but as regards foveal thickness, it was significantly lower in diabetic cases than in the control group.

Conclusion

We discovered that OCTA could consistently identify microvascular changes in the Deep and Superficial Capillary Plexus prior to the clinical indications’ onset of DR. In order to assess the OCTA potential for the screening of DR in children with T1DM, it is necessary to conduct numerous prospective studies.
Evaluation of topical bromfenac as an adjunctive treatment with intravitreal ranibizumab in the management of diabetic macular edema
Authors: Emara Sara S. , Tabl Ahmed A. , El-Tohamy Soha M. , El-Mohamady Mohamed N.
Published: October 2024

Background and purpose

Intravitreal injection of anti- vascular endothelial growth factor medications has transformed the therapy of diabetic macular edema (DME). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of topical bromfenac as an adjunctive therapy to intravitreal ranibizumab injections in patients diagnosed with DME.

Study design

Prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial.

Patients

The study included 40 eyes of patients with DME, divided into two groups: group I (20 eyes) received intravitreal ranibizumab injections and adjunctive topical bromfenac twice daily; group II (20 eyes) received only intravitreal ranibizumab injections.

Methods

All patients underwent assessments for best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure, anterior segment, and fundus examination. Optical coherence tomography of the macula was repeated at 1, 3, and 6 months after the last injection.

Results

At 6 months, group I demonstrated significantly worse BCVA compared with group II (P=0.021). In group II, the 6-month change in central macular thickness from baseline was significantly greater in patients aged less than or equal to 60 years compared with those greater than 60 years (median = –170.5 μm vs. −40 μm, respectively; P=0.001) and in females compared with males (median = –75 μm vs. −23.4 μm; P=0.012). No significant differences were observed concerning the duration of diabetes (P=0.238), HbA1c levels (P=0.315), or laterality (P=0.792).

Conclusion

Topical bromfenac, when combined with intravitreal ranibizumab, showed some efficacy in the management of DME over a 6-month follow-up period, although the results were not statistically significant.
Dermoscopic Distinction of Tinea Incognito on the Face and Topical Steroid Damaged Face: A Cross-Sectional Study in Skin of Color
Authors: Ankad Balachandra S. , Hurakadli Sahana S. , Chigurupati Eshritha
Published: October 2024

Background:

Dermatophytosis is widespread in India due to recalcitrant and resistant infection. Tinea incognito (TI) is modified dermatophytosis due to the inadvertent use of topical steroids (TS). Similarly, topical steroid-damaged face (TSDF) is caused by prolonged use of TS. Distinction of TI and TSDF is difficult when the face is affected. Dermoscopy can assist in the differentiation of both by revealing characteristic features. We evaluated the dermoscopic features in TI affecting the face and TSDF.

Aims and Objectives:

To evaluate the clinical and dermoscopic features of TI affecting the face and TSDF. To observe the involvement of eyelids in TI as opposed to TSDF.

Materials and Methods:

The study was conducted in a tertiary hospital after obtaining ethical clearance and informed consent. Patients with signs of TI or TSDF were enrolled and demographic data were collected. Patients who had applied TS/combination creams were included. A handheld dermoscope with 10x magnification was used. A potassium hydroxide mount was used to confirm the diagnosis of TI.

Results:

Out of 80 patients, 27 males and 53 females were present. The mean duration of application was 8.25 ± 7 months. Clinical features were pruritus, erythema, scaling, and burning sensation. Eyelid involvement was noted in TI while it was spared in TSDF. On dermoscopy, morphological features were predominant in TI whereas vascular structures were found in TSDF in addition to white rosettes.

Conclusion:

Dermoscopy distinguishes TI from TSDF comprehensively by demonstrating definitive features. In addition, the involvement of the eyelid is an excellent clinical sign of TI.
Bilateral inguinal hernioplasty in emergency surgery: Is it feasible? Comparative retrospective study using “propensity score matching”
Authors: Bravo-Salva A. , Ochoa-Segarra F. , González-Castillo A. M. , Juvany-Gómez M. , Téllez-Marques C. , Riba-Combatti L. , Pérez-Guitart M. , Pereira-Rodríguez J. A.
Published: October 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Hernias, particularly groin hernias, are prevalent surgical pathologies worldwide, often necessitating surgery in cases of complications. This study investigates the safety and efficacy of performing bilateral inguinal hernioplasty when one side faces complications, addressing the lack of consensus in emergency groin hernia treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A retrospective, single-center study spanning a duration of 10 years was conducted, including adult patients who underwent emergency surgery for inguinal hernia. Propensity score matching was employed to create similar groups for comparative analysis of unilateral versus bilateral emergency groin hernioplasty. Surgical techniques, complications, mortality, and long-term outcomes were evaluated.

RESULTS:

This study included 341 patients. Data obtained from the study revealed high morbidity and 90-day mortality rates, consistent with the data of existing literature. Propensity score matching yielded two comparable groups. Short-term outcomes showed no significant differences in complication rates, mortality, surgical site infection, or hospital stay between unilateral and bilateral hernioplasty groups. Bilateral surgery takes approximately 15 min of the procedure time. Long-term outcomes exhibited similar recurrence rates between groups.

CONCLUSION:

This study supports the practice of bilateral inguinal hernioplasty in emergency scenarios when one side faces complications. It is a safe approach without any significant increase in morbidity or hospital stay, while reducing the need for a subsequent intervention and its associated risks and costs. Further prospective research is necessary to confirm these findings.
Implementation Research on Cardiovascular Diseases in India: A Systematic Review
Authors: Moosan Hisham , Sharma Arun Kumar , Thakor Mahendra , Panigrahi Ansuman , Dhikav Vikas , Yadav Suresh , Huda Ramesh Kumar , Parmar Mukesh C. , Singh Poonam , Mohanty Suman S. , John Denny
Published: October 2024

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death globally and the prevention and control of these diseases tend to entail longer and larger social and economic commitments on the part of governments. This systematic review (SR) aims to understand the quantum, diversity, and quality of implementation research (IR) done in the field of CVDs in India with a view to maximizing the utility of the efforts made by the government. The evidence was collated on IR on CVDs in India conducted in the past 20 years (2001–2021) using a SR approach. The SR was drafted using Preferred Reporting Items for SRs and Meta-analyses guidelines. Academic databases (PubMed, Embase, and Science Direct) and nonacademic databases (Google Scholar and ProQuest) were chosen, along with repositories of gray literature. Retrieved articles were screened for titles and abstracts and assessed by two independent reviewers. The articles also underwent a concomitant risk of bias assessment utilizing checklists (STARI, STROBE, CONSORT, etc.,) and a narrative summary was drafted using SwiM guidelines. In the final analysis, 10 articles that fitted the inclusion criteria of IR for CVD in India were included, of which seven were directed at IR on hypertension, and three were related to coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, and stroke. Acceptability, adoption, and feasibility were the only attributes of IR that were explored in these studies.
Examining Asian Parents’ Perspectives and Challenges in Sexual and Reproductive Health Education with Implications for Public Health: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ellin Mohammed Rasheedan Bin , Hazariah Abdul Hamid Siti Binti , Arifin Siti Roshaidai Mohd , Hasan Haliza Binti , Othman Sajaratulnisah Binti , Zain Norhasmah Mohd Binti
Published: October 2024

In Asian cultures, discussing sexual matters with adolescents is often considered taboo and culturally or religiously sensitive. Due to a lack of knowledge and skills, many parents find approaching such a topic with their children challenging, fearing that raising such an issue will bring concerns about encouraging promiscuity. This systematic review aims to assess evidence on Asian parents’ perspectives and practices regarding delivering sexuality information to adolescents. It also seeks to identify the factors that facilitate or hinder the effective delivery of such knowledge. The electronic databases EBSCO-CINAHL, Scopus, and Science Direct were searched using keywords and synonyms such as “sexuality information,” “sexuality education,” “parent-child,” “communication,” and “Asian.” The studies’ quality was assessed using the Mixed-Method Assessment Tool. A comprehensive database search identified 1392 potentially relevant literature sources for this review. Following the application of inclusion criteria, a final set of 16 eligible full-text research articles was selected for inclusion in the review. In most quantitative literature, parents were found to have a good level of knowledge, whereas most qualitative studies reported the opposite, indicating inadequate knowledge. Seven studies highlighted the cultural denial of delivering regarding sexuality, whereas six studies emphasized the need for parental support. Negative experiences, including discomfort, shyness, embarrassment, fear of intimidation, and fearful encounters, were reported in the literature. In conclusion, this review aims to pinpoint gaps and challenges in the delivery of sexuality education among Asian parents, offering valuable insights for public health practitioners and policymakers.
Prevalence and Determinants of Developmental Delay in Children of 12–36 Months in the Area of Primary Health Centre, Bela, Nagpur
Authors: Lakshmi N. R. Aiswarya , Deshmukh Pradeep R. , Tripathy Jaya Prasad , Dahake Urmila
Published: October 2024

Background:

Developmental delay happens when a child fails to attain age-appropriate milestones. Identification of developmental delay in children is important to initiate early intervention in them which will facilitate the children to have a productive life in their later years.

Objectives:

The objective was to study the prevalence of developmental delay among 12–36-month-old children from the area of Primary Health Centre, Bela, in rural Nagpur, Maharashtra.

Materials and Methods:

This was a community-based cross-sectional study design. A total of 314 children were selected through simple random sampling and assessed for delay using the Pediatric Development Screening Tool (PDST).

Results:

14.9% had developmental delay in at least any one domain and 3.5% had global developmental delay. Domain-specific developmental delay was highest for language delay (10%) followed by fine motor (5%). Gross motor and personal social delays had the same prevalence (3.1%). On multivariable lower literacy, level of mother and Composite Index of Anthropometric Failure were significant variables for any developmental delay. Hospitalization of the child during the 1st month of life and lower parenting scores were the significant factors associated with global delay.

Conclusion:

Development delay is present in a sizeable proportion of children <3 years of age which affects their future growth and achievement. We recommend annual community-based screening for delays to detect and manage such children.
Household Food Insecurity among Indigenous Communities in Sarawak, Malaysia: Predictors and Coping Strategies
Authors: Teoh Wan Jool , Law Leh Shii , Helmy Hazmi , Stephen Jeffery Anak , Cheah Whye Lian , Salleh Yolanda Anak
Published: October 2024

Background:

Food insecurity prevails in people at all phases of their life course and causes remarkable health, social, and financial repercussions. In Sarawak state, Malaysia, information regarding household food insecurity is limited.

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence of household food insecurity, together with its predictors and coping strategies among the Sarawak indigenous communities.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 953 Indigenous households (women) located in six districts throughout Sarawak using multistage sampling. Interviewer-administrated questionnaires were used. Simple and multiple logistic regressions were employed to draw inferences.

Results:

The prevalence of food insecurity was 42.2%. Large household size (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] =1.57 [1.04–2.45]), hardcore poor (AOR = 12.26 [5.07–29.65]), and absolute poor families (AOR = 3.01 [1.76–5.15]), recipient of financial assistance (AOR = 1.94 [1.27, 2.96]), no savings (AOR = 1.63 [1.08–2.46]), increased resource loss (AOR = 1.004 [1.001–1.008]), and employment of coping strategies (AOR = 3.78 [2.50–5.72]) were significantly related to a higher risk of household food insecurity. High level of perceived social support (AOR = 0.73 [0.58–0.93]), optimism (AOR = 0.91 [0.86–0.96]), and general perceived self-efficacy (AOR = 0.88 [0.85–0.91]) among respondents were protective against household food insecurity.

Conclusion:

Nearly half of the Indigenous households faced food insecurity in the current study. The findings suggest that incessant effort by pertinent stakeholders is warranted via diverse strategies to enhance the socioeconomic status and nutrition intervention programs that incorporate components of perceived social support, optimism, and perceived general self-efficacy to mitigate the level of food insecurity among the Sarawak Indigenous communities.
Regional Disparity of Anemia among Children and Its Determinants: A Study of National Family Health Survey-5
Authors: Mandal Subhadip , Behera Jagannath , Shit Bichitra , Paul Sankar
Published: October 2024

This study analyzes data from India’s National Family Health Survey to assess the prevalence of anemia among children aged 6–59 months. Over the past decade, the prevalence increased from 59% to 67%, remaining a significant public health concern. Gujarat has highest rates, and Kerala has lowest among major states in India. The Western region tops in prevalence (75.70%), whereas the Northeast has the lowest (56.20%). Factors such as lower maternal education, poverty, religion, rural residence, poor child nutrition, low birth weight, and stunting contribute to higher odds of anemia. Improved socioeconomic conditions and maternal nutrition are recommended for risk reduction.
Impact of Corticosteroid Administration on Fetal Doppler Metrics and Neonatal Outcomes: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Ghose Seetesh , Shanmugam Aswini
Published: October 2024

Antenatal corticosteroid therapy is a crucial intervention to improve neonatal outcomes in pregnancies at risk of preterm birth. Corticosteroids such as betamethasone and dexamethasone enhance fetal lung maturation and reduce morbidity and mortality. To assess the effects of these drugs, we conducted a systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Data were located through extensive searches of PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science, using keywords such as “antenatal corticosteroids,” “fetal Doppler,” and “neonatal outcomes,” and applying filters for human studies published between 2013 and 2024. Studies were selected based on inclusion criteria that prioritized original research articles, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses in English. Screening and eligibility assessments were performed by independent reviewers, with full-text articles. Data extraction involved recording study designs, sample sizes, corticosteroid regimens, Doppler metrics assessed, and neonatal outcomes observed. The extracted data were synthesized qualitatively through narrative methods and quantitatively using meta-analysis where applicable. The review found that corticosteroid administration leads to transient reductions in the resistance and pulsatility indices of key fetal vessels, reflecting improved placental and cerebral perfusion. These Doppler changes correlate with better neonatal outcomes, including reduced respiratory distress syndrome and enhanced neurodevelopmental results. Despite these promising findings, limitations such as small sample sizes and short follow-up periods were noted. Future research should focus on larger, multicenter trials and long-term outcome assessments. Clinicians are advised to incorporate serial Doppler monitoring in high-risk pregnancies to optimize maternal-fetal management and neonatal outcomes.
Clinical Spectrum of Heatstroke in a Tertiary Care Hospital during the 2024 Delhi Heat wave Peak
Authors: Titiyal Renuka , Arora Aanchal , Ranjan Abhishek , Dhawale Yash , Margekar Shubha Laxmi , Prakash Anupam
Published: October 2024

Background:

Heat-related illnesses (HRIs) have a wide spectrum from relatively mild heat cramps to heatstroke in its severest form. The 2024 heat wave in Delhi, with temperatures consistently above 40°C, resulted in over 270 deaths due to heatstroke. This study examines nine cases of classical heatstroke admitted over a 24-h period to a tertiary care hospital in Delhi.

Materials and Methods:

This is a cross-sectional study of patients presenting to emergency with altered consciousness during the 24-h period just before the culmination of the 40-day long heat wave period. In the absence of alternative etiologies on the investigation, a diagnosis of classical heatstroke was entertained. The sociodemographic details, clinical features, investigations, treatment, and outcomes of nine such patients are being reported.

Results:

Common symptoms observed in the patients were hyperthermia (100%), dehydration (100%), altered sensorium (100%), vomiting (33%), and seizures (33%). Laboratory findings showed respiratory alkalosis (100%), hypokalemia (88.8%), thrombocytopenia (88.8%), and transaminitis (77.7%). Eight heatstroke patients required mechanical ventilation. Despite intensive treatment, three patients died, whereas six were discharged in stable condition.

Conclusion:

The 2024 heat wave in Delhi highlighted the severe impact of extreme heat on health. The spectrum of clinical features in classical heatstroke has been outlined. The impact of heat wave was such that even normal individuals accustomed to high-heat environments developed HRI. Early recognition and rapid cooling are crucial in managing heatstroke. Improved public awareness, healthcare infrastructure, and management protocols are essential to mitigate the effects of future heat waves.
Convergence of solutions of the porous medium equation with reactions
Authors: Lou Bendong , Zhou Maolin
Published: October 2024

Consider the Cauchy problem of one-dimensional porous medium equation (PME) with reactions. We first prove a general convergence result, that is, any bounded global solution starting at a nonnegative compactly supported initial data converges as

t\to \infty

to a nonnegative zero of the reaction term or a ground state stationary solution. Based on it, we give out a complete classification on the asymptotic behavior of the solutions for PME with monostable, bistable and combustion types of nonlinearities.
Abelian TQFTS and Schrödinger local systems
Authors: Andreev Aleksei , Beliakova Anna , Blanchet Christian
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we construct an action of 3-cobordisms on the finite dimensional Schrödinger representations of the Heisenberg group by Lagrangian correspondences. In addition, we review the construction of the abelian Topological Quantum Field Theory (TQFT) associated with a

q

-deformation of

U(1)

for any root of unity

q

. We prove that, for 3-cobordisms compatible with Lagrangian correspondences, there is a normalization of the associated Schrödinger bimodule action that reproduces the abelian TQFT.The full abelian TQFT provides a projective representation of the mapping class group

\mathrm{Mod}(\Sigma)

on the Schrödinger representation, which is linearizable at odd root of 1. Motivated by homology of surface configurations with Schrödinger representation as local coefficients, we define another projective action of

\mathrm{Mod}(\Sigma)

on Schrödinger representations. We show that the latter is not linearizable by identifying the associated 2-cocycle.
$n$-значные группы, разветвленные накрытия и трехмерные гиперболические многообразия
Authors: Buchstaber Victor Matveevich , Vesnin Andrei Yurievich
Published: October 2024

Развита теория $n$-значных групп и ее приложений на основе перехода от групп, заданных аксиоматикой, к комбинаторным группам, заданным образующими и соотношениями. На основе групп с циклическим представлением введен широкий класс циклических $n$-значных групп. Наиболее известными группами с циклическим представлением являются группы Фибоначчи, введенные Конвеем. Проблема существования пространства орбит $n$-значных групп связана с проблемой интегрируемости $n$-значных динамик. В работе даны условия существования таких пространств. Построены действия циклических $n$-значных групп на $\mathbb R^3$ с пространством орбит, гомеоморфным $S^3$. Показано, что проекции $\mathbb R^3 \to S^3$ на пространство орбит связаны коммутативными диаграммами с циклически разветвленными вдоль гиперболического узла накрытиями сферы $S^3$ трехмерными компактными гиперболическими многообразиями.
Библиография: 54 названия.
Нули дискриминантов, построенных по полиномам Эрмита-Паде алгебраической функции, и их связь с точками ветвления
Authors: Komlov Aleksandr Vladimirovich , Palvelev Roman Vital'evich
Published: October 2024

Пусть $f_\infty$ - росток в точке $\infty$ некоторой алгебраической функции $f$ степени $m+1$. Пусть $Q_{n,j}$, $j=0,…,m$, - полиномы Эрмита-Паде первого типа порядка $n\in\mathbb N$, построенные по набору ростков $[1, f_\infty, f_\infty^2,…,f_\infty^m]$. В настоящей статье мы изучаем асимптотические свойства дискриминантов, построенных по указанным полиномам Эрмита-Паде, т.е. дискриминантов $D_n(z)$ полиномов $Q_{n,m}(z)w^m+Q_{n,m-1}(z)w^{m-1}+…+Q_{n,0}(z)$. Мы находим их слабую асимптотику, а также сравнительную асимптотику с полиномом $Q_{n,m}^{2m-2}$. Кроме того, мы уточняем слабую асимптотику $D_n$ в точках ветвления исходной алгебраической функции $f$ и применяем полученные результаты к востребованной в прикладных задачах проблеме численного нахождения точек ветвления $f$ по ее заданному ростку $f_\infty$.
Библиография: 49 названий.
Скорость сходимости в центральной предельной теореме для детерминантного точечного процесса с ядром Бесселя
Authors: Gorbunov Sergei Milhailovich
Published: October 2024

В работе рассматривается семейство линейных операторов на $L_2(\mathbb{R}_+)$, диагонализуемых преобразованием Ганкеля. Для определителей Фредгольма данных операторов, ограниченных на $L_2[0, R]$, выводится точное выражение, позволяющее установить их скорость сходимости при $R\to\infty$. Мы используем связь этих определителей с распределением аддитивных функционалов в детерминантном точечном процессе с ядром Бесселя и получаем оценку на расстояние Колмогорова-Смирнова между распределением последних и гауссовым.
Библиография: 27 названий.
Relationship between Prices and Quality of Essential Medicines from Different Manufacturers Collected in Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Nigeria
Authors: Gabel Julia , _ _ , Martus Peter , Heide Lutz
Published: October 2024

Achieving universal access to affordable medicines and at the same time ensuring the quality of medicines presents a challenge, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Here, the relationship between medicine prices and medicine quality was investigated in three African countries. From different types of health facilities and medicine vendors, 711 samples of 18 different essential medicines were purchased and analyzed for quality (assay and dissolution) according to the United States Pharmacopeia. Without exception, all originator brand medicines and all SRA generics (generic medicines manufactured in countries with stringent regulatory authorities [SRAs]) complied with pharmacopeial specifications. In contrast, 21.1% of the non-SRA generics (manufactured in countries without SRAs) were substandard. The median prices of originator brands and SRA generics were three times and two times higher than those of non-SRA generics, respectively. Within the non-SRA generics, no positive correlation was observed between medicine quality and medicine price. Medicines manufactured in India, China, or African countries showed similar quality and similar prices. Only a single WHO-prequalified medicine sample was found among the 711 samples. Non-SRA generic medicines produced by manufacturers for which WHO had published Public Inspection Reports showed a significantly lower rate of substandard medicines (7.3%) and, at the same time, significantly lower prices (by 33%) than other non-SRA generics. Falsified medicines (total 2.0%) were found among all categories of medicines and had prices similar to those of non-SRA generics. Our findings indicate that adequate quality assurance does not necessarily imply an increase in medicine prices.
Effectiveness of Antileishmanial Treatments in Three Endemic Areas of Colombia: A Community-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Castro María del Mar , Del Castillo Alejandra María , Castillo Ruth Mabel , Cossio Alexandra , Castaño Grajales Patricia , Gutiérrez Yeison , Alexander Neal
Published: October 2024

The effectiveness of treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in rural settings remains underexplored. This study assessed the effectiveness of standard antileishmanial treatments using a community-based approach supported by mobile health (mHealth) in three rural areas of Colombia. From January 2018 to September 2021, we assessed treatment outcomes, adherence, and adverse drug reactions in CL patients, with the support of the Guaral+ST app. Treatment decisions were made by providers at health facilities at each site in accordance with national guidelines, whereas treatment follow-up and presumptive case identification were made by trained community leaders and health agents at the community level. In total, 231 participants received antileishmanial treatment (63 received miltefosine, 110 meglumine antimoniate, and 58 pentamidine). Disease presentation was mild (median number of lesions = 1, interquartile range [IQR]: 1–2) and of short duration (1.5 months, IQR: 1–3). The strategy yielded information on the therapeutic outcomes in 81% of study participants. Effectiveness, measured as the proportion of cure at 90 to 180 days, was 86.3% (95% CI: 73.3–93.48) for miltefosine; 77.6% (67.5–85.3) for meglumine antimoniate, and 73.1% (59.0–83.6) for pentamidine. The effectiveness of pentamidine in children ≤10 years old was 79.4% (61.6–90.3). This is one of the few reports of effectiveness of pentamidine in children with prospective data collection in the Americas. Adverse drug reactions occurred in 32% of patients, most frequently with meglumine antimoniate. Our findings demonstrate that standard antileishmanial treatments are effective in rural areas where the disease is endemic and that mHealth has a pivotal role in improving patient follow-up and data collection on therapeutic outcomes.
Scorpion Envenoming as an Emerging Public Health Problem in Paraguay, Bolivia, and Midwest Brazil: Involvement of Tityus confluens and the Need for a Panregional Evaluation of Available Antivenoms
Authors: Borges Adolfo , Rojas de Arias Antonieta , Montaño Ana María , de Souza Cláudio Mauricio V.
Published: October 2024

This contribution highlights the emergence of a newly endemic region for scorpion envenoming in South America, covering eastern Bolivia, Paraguay, and the midwestern Brazilian states of Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul. These areas have not historically been known to harbor life-threatening scorpion species. Tityus confluens, a parthenogenetic species of medical significance in Argentina, has been identified in severe and lethal human cases in Bolivia and Paraguay. Given that the clinical use of scorpion antivenom preparations in the region has often lacked preclinical data and considering the significant burden of scorpion envenoming, we propose a panregional evaluation of available anti-Tityus antivenoms. This evaluation, along with interdisciplinary efforts at a multinational scale to control scorpionism, aims to determine their true neutralization capacity and potential clinical efficacy against known culprits in the Southern Cone of South America and other regions endemic for scorpion envenoming on the continent.
Stress Field near Crack Tips in Pressurized Thick-Walled Cylinders
with Single and Multiple Cracks in Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics: Analytical
and Numerical Analysis of Stress Field and Crack Behavior
Authors: Methia Mounir , Benslimane Abdelhakim , Bechir Hocine , Aït Hocine Nourredine
Published: October 2024

Arrays of radial cracks often appear at the bore of pressurized cylinders, posing
potential safety risks and leading to possible structural failures. This article
presents an analytical approach to evaluate the stress field arising from single
or multiple uniform radial cracks in thick-walled pressurized cylinders within
the context of linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) under mode-I loading.
This formulation is based on the fundamental equations of elasticity and
approximations of stress intensity factors (SIF) reported in the literature.
Hence, the SIF were revisited and their range of validity was highlighted. The
study considers two types of internal pressure loading: one applied only to the
cylinder’s inner surface with no pressure on the crack faces and another applied
to both the inner surface and the crack faces. The influence of the number and
length of cracks relative to cylinder thickness on the stress field is analyzed.
A finite element model of the pressurized vessel is constructed to verify the
proposed analytical solution, showing good agreement with numerical results for
a limited number of cracks.
The effects of leader-member exchange on employee performance at commercial banks in Ho Chi Minh City: The role of job satisfaction and work engagement as mediating variables
Authors: Khuc Nam Dinh
Published: October 2024

Our paper aimed to identify how leader-member exchange directly and indirectly impacts the performance of staff in commercial banks located in Ho Chi Minh City, through mediating variables: work engagement and job satisfaction. We applied a convenient method of collecting direct data. SmartPLS 3.2.9 was used to analyze Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to test our model’s hypotheses with official samples being at 567. The results indicated that the total positive and significant effects on the performance of staff working at commercial banks were sorted in ascending order: work engagement, job satisfaction, and leader-member exchange. The effects of leader-member exchange on staff working at commercial banks’ work engagement and job satisfaction were directly significant and positive. Moreover, staff working at commercial banks’ job satisfaction and work engagement played a positive and mediating role in the correlation between leader-member exchange and employee performance. Finally, we have practical implications for commercial banks to improve employee performance.
The heterogeneity impacts of digital transformation, human capital, and trade openness on income and labour productivity in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Ha Minh , Bui Ngoc Hoang
Published: October 2024

Improving labor productivity and per capita income are top priorities in Vietnam’s economic policy for the next decade. This study aims to explore the heterogeneous impacts of digital transformation, human capital, and trade openness on income and labor productivity in the Vietnamese economy from 1990 to 2018. The empirical results, obtained through the quantile regression method and Bayesian inference, unequivocally demonstrate that digital transformation and trade openness significantly promote labor productivity and income improvement. Moreover, the increase in human capital unequivocally enhances income and supports the rise in labor productivity. The Granger causality test reveals a uni-directional causality running from digital transformation to income and no causal relationship between digital transformation and labor productivity. Based on these findings, we recommend that the government and businesses should invest in and develop the Internet of Things (IoT), telecommunications, and network security infrastructure. These fundamental elements affect how well and successfully the digital transformation goes. Additionally, raising the caliber of the workforce ought to be taken into account.
BuddhistRoad Paper 7.4 "Avalokiteśvara in Dunhuang and Tibet: The Development of the Bodhisattva’s Tibetan Cult (with a Study of the History of the Ma ṇi bka’ ’bum)"
Authors: Langelaar Reinier
Published: October 2024

The period in which the famous Tibetan cult of the bodhisattva Avalokiteśvara (Tib. sPyan ras gzigs) took shape remains disputed. Some have sought his cult’s incipience towards the end of the second millennium or even at the dusk of the Tibetan Empire (ca. 7th c. to 842, Tib. Bod chen po), while others consider it the fruit of religious developments during Tibet’s so-called later propagation of Buddhism (from the late 10th/early 11th c. onward, Tib. phyi dar). This paper illuminates the matter by studying the textual history of two highly influential early Tibetan sources concerning this bodhisattva, the Ma ṇi bka’ ’bum [Collected Works on the Maṇi (Mantra)] and the bKa’ chems ka khol ma [Pillar Testament]. Diachronic analyses of these two works are important topics in their own right, yet also illuminate the growth of the distinctively Tibetan mythology that would come to surround Avalokiteśvara. In a bid to further draw out historical developments, findings from these two sources are presented in combination with Tibetan Dunhuang (敦煌) documents and Tibetan Plateau sources from the period of the later propagation of Buddhism in Tibet. This combined survey provides a more fine-grained view of Avalokiteśvara’s unparalleled rise in Tibetan religion. In the process, the article rewrites our understanding of the history of the Collected Works on the Maṇi (Mantra), while also developing new insights into the rise to prominence of the six-syllable mantra Oṃ ma ṇi pad me hūṃ, Avalokiteśvara’s growing roles in Tibetan history, as well as his relation to Amitābha/Amitāyus.
Voces del COVID-19 en México
Authors: Valles Ruiz Rosa María , Sen Santos Xochitl Andrea
Published: October 2024

La pandemia del COVID-19 conmocionó al mundo entero. Puso a prueba la inteligencia no solo de gobiernos y grandes consorcios internacionales sino de investigadores (del más alto prestigio) quienes lograron, en un tiempo récord, crear las vacunas que frenaron la carrera infernal del virus que dejó 7 millones de muertos. ¿Cómo afectó el virus en la vida cotidiana de mexicanos? ¿Cómo lograron sobrevivir y salir adelante? En este texto se registran testimonios de hombres y mujeres de diversas clases sociales y entidades de México que relatan la pérdida o pérdidas de personas queridas y su propia experiencia al superar la enfermedad. El objetivo del texto es registrar, a través de 38 entrevistas, el entorno socio-político y económico del país y su vinculación con el día a día de las personas que otorgaron su testimonio.
De la desigualdad económica a la desigualdad regional: una apreciación teórica
Authors: Pérez Ortiz Alfredo Carlos , Hernández Ortiz Marlen , Esparza Flores Miguel , Ortiz Medina Imelda
Published: October 2024

En la última década, el análisis dedicado a la desigualdad económica en las regiones ha sentado precedente para analizar los elementos distintivos y características primordiales como foco de interés y de oportunidad para el crecimiento y desarrollo económico. Al identificar los principales factores económicos que determinan la desigualdad como variable explicativa para México, se encuentra que la distribución del ingreso afecta la construcción del espacio relativo de una sociedad manifestando la importancia de las distribuciones del ingreso recayendo sobre el concepto de bienestar; o explicado de la forma clásica respecto al costo marginal. El trabajo tiene como objetivo: Construir una apreciación teórica sobre la desigualdad económica regional. Se recopila, análisis e interpretan investigaciones cualitativas con el fin de generar una reflexión integral de las teorías de desarrollo regional, desigualdad y crecimiento económicos. El enfoque de la distribución del ingreso analiza la forma como se manifiesta la desigualdad dando como resultado que la realidad de la desigualdad en México es determinada por los factores característicos del territorio. Da parte a una discusión sobre la política económica que se debe implementar no solamente con fines apaciguadores, sino con el fin de generar cambios en la estructura económica y con repercusión a los diversos sectores económicos. Se concluye que la desigualdad posee distintos polos de interpretación, siendo un tema de relevancia en el presente siglo, como parte de los objetivos fundamentales para el desarrollo de los países.
La pandemia del SARS-COV-2 en la economía mexicana: un enfoque microeconómico
Authors: Tobanche Mireles Brayan , Hernández Ortiz Marlen
Published: October 2024

En el contexto de un sistema de mercado con vínculos globales de comercio y distribución, el cese obligatorio de las actividades consideradas no esenciales durante el periodo pandémico afectó directamente la actividad económica a escala mundial. Desde un enfoque microeconómico, los agentes productivos vieron alterado su proceso de planificación por una emergente toma de decisiones basada en prevenir los efectos de la crisis sanitaria. Considerando lo anterior, se parte de la teoría neoclásica y por medio de funciones de consumo y beneficio modificadas acorde la coyuntura, se analizan los cambios afrontados en el proceso optimizador de los agentes microeconómicos para evaluar qué variables son las más determinantes. Los resultados muestran que la estructura de costos empresariales y las variaciones en el ingreso corriente de los consumidores son las variables con mayor influencia en el periodo estudiado.
Efectos de la crisis sanitaria del COVID 19 en el empleo: el caso de la región centro norte de México
Authors: Juárez Chairez Diana Elizabeth , Esparza Flores Miguel , Plata Pérez Pedro
Published: October 2024

La contingencia sanitaria acarreo una serie de consecuencias económicas a nivel mundial, en México, las medidas implementadas para contener la propagación del COVID-19 generaron un impacto significativo en diversas áreas, especialmente en el empleo. El cierre temporal y, en algunos casos, definitivo de actividades productivas afectó gravemente la estabilidad laboral, derivando en una mayor tasa de desempleo e informalidad. La región centro norte de México, conformada por los estados de Aguascalientes, San Luis Potosí y Zacatecas, experimentó una transformación notable en su mercado laboral durante y después de la pandemia. Este apartado tiene como objetivo analizar el comportamiento del empleo, desempleo y la informalidad en dicha región. Asimismo, se abordarán las implicaciones económicas y sociales derivadas de la pandemia y se propondrán políticas públicas que puedan mitigar los efectos adversos a largo plazo.
Optimización de beneficios en una refinería petrolera de México: un caso hipotético
Authors: Aguilera Rodríguez Néstor Fernando , Pinto Dueñas Laura Lizbeth , García Cabrera Sandra Verónica , Plata Pérez Pedro
Published: October 2024

En una refinería petrolera es posible depurar distintos grados de gasolina dependiendo de la concentración de cada uno de los hidrocarburos empleados en el proceso (por ejemplo, la gasolina Magna y Premium presentes en el mercado mexicano). En el presente trabajo se expone la aplicación del método simplex para optimizar utilidades en una refinería mexicana. Considerando algunas restricciones tanto en la disponibilidad de cada componente, como en el nivel de concentración de cada uno de ellos. Se obtiene el beneficio máximo con las limitaciones de recursos que se tienen.