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Healing Beyond Biomedicine: Medical Anthropology and the Role of Traditional Healers in Sudan
No full textTraditional healers remain central to healthcare in many African societies, including Sudan, where up to 80% of the population seek their guidance. These practitioners— ranging from herbalists and spirit mediums to Islamic healers like Fugara (Qur’anic healers) and sheikhs—offer care rooted in cultural traditions, social ties, and spiritual beliefs. Despite this, they are often marginalized by biomedical practitioners and viewed with suspicion because of concerns about safety, lack of standardization, and delays in seeking biomedical treatment. This article presents a more nuanced understanding of traditional healing through the lens of medical anthropology, which highlights cultural contexts, symbolic healing, explanatory models, and medical pluralism. In Sudan, where formal health systems have been weakened by conflict and resource limitations, the importance of traditional healers becomes particularly evident. Medical anthropology offers qualitative tools—such as ethnographic methods— to understand the lived experiences and health-seeking behaviors of individuals navigating multiple healthcare systems. The paper also critiques the power dynamics between Western biomedical systems and indigenous knowledge, discussing collaborative, culturally sensitive approaches rather than imposed interventions. Recent research challenges simple narratives about traditional healing, illustrating that access is not always based on cost or availability but on deeper social and symbolic meanings. Ultimately, the article suggests integrating traditional healers as partners in health care, not as competitors or obstacles
The role of tacrolimus in women with unexplained infertility: A narrative review
No full textSeveral autoimmune and immunological disorders can cause infertility. About 10–20% of infertility cases are related to fetal-maternal immune factors. The use of immunological treatments in women with infertility is an emerging strategy. Tacrolimus, a calcineurin inhibitor, has been shown in some studies to prevent fetal rejection and promote tolerance by inhibiting activated natural killer cells, natural killer T cells, and macrophages. In this review, we will evaluate the effects of tacrolimus on recurrent pregnancy loss and assisted reproductive technology failure. The search strategy for relevant articles was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases using MeSH terms and keywords including Tacrolimus [mh], FK506, infertility [mh], abortion, spontaneous [mh], recurrent miscarriage, recurrent pregnancy loss, and recurrent implantation failure. We sought the most recent and reliable studies in the field of infertility. Tacrolimus is relatively safe and effective during pregnancy, with no major fetal-maternal complications. It is beneficial for with an elevated T helper-1/T helper-2 cell ratio. However, more studies should be designed to clarify the optimal dosage, treatment duration, and timing of initiation and cessation of tacrolimus to maximize its safety and efficacy during pregnancy
Refractive Error Stabilization Following Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery and Its Associated Preoperative Factors
No full textPurpose: To evaluate the time required for refractive error (RE) stabilization after standard phacoemulsification cataract surgery and identify preoperative factors influencing this duration.Methods: This prospective case series study enrolled patients who had undergone phacoemulsification cataract surgery. RE stabilization was defined as <0.50 diopter changes in spherical equivalent (SE) over two consecutive follow-ups. Participants underwent ophthalmic examinations at baseline and postoperative days 3, 7, 14, 28, and 60. Keratometric values (K-mean), corneal astigmatism, and axial length (AL) were measured preoperatively using a biometric device.Results: A total of 163 eyes from 163 patients were included. RE stabilization occurred by day 28 in 98.8% of eyes, reaching 100% by day 60. Multivariate analysis revealed that age, gender, type of cataract (nuclear, cortical, or posterior subcapsular), best-corrected visual acuity, absolute SE, and K-mean did not significantly influence the time to RE stabilization (Ps > 0.05). AL demonstrated a significant negative association with the time to RE stabilization (ß = –0.445, P < 0.001). Moreover, eyes with lower preoperative corneal astigmatism exhibited a shorter time to RE stabilization (ß = 1.001, P < 0.001).Conclusion: RE stabilization is typically observed 4 weeks post-cataract surgery. Eyes with lower AL and higher corneal astigmatism exhibit a comparatively slower RE stabilization following surgery.
Orbital Presentation of Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis: An Interventional Case Report and Literature Review
No full textPurpose: To report a case of eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) initially presenting as orbital involvement, describe its successful management, and provide a comprehensive literature review. Case Report: A 33-year-old female patient presented with swelling, redness, tenderness, and a mass under the left upper eyelid for one month. Upper lid eversion showed a multilobulated lesion in the subconjunctival area of the same region. The patient’s medical history included asthma and atrial septal defect surgery. Orbital MRI revealed a soft tissue mass infiltrating the superior and lateral aspects of the conal and extraconal regions in the anterior orbit, with extension toward the preseptal area. The lesion underwent incisional biopsy, and histopathological findings were consistent with the diagnosis of EGPA. The patient’s blood tests revealed eosinophilia and a negative antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody. After excluding other similar pathologies such as granulomatosis with polyangiitis, we observed a dramatic regression in her orbital lesion following systemic steroid therapy. Conclusion: The diagnosis of EGPA, a rare clinical presentation, is crucial for ophthalmologists because it provides early recognition of the systemic disease and can help slow its progression by initiating appropriate treatment in a timely manner
On the Brink of Attrition: An Analysis of the UAE PISA 2022 Teachers’ Questionnaire
No full textTeacher attrition is a critical global challenge. As such, it is crucial to identify the key factors related to teacher attrition. In the context of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), this study examines the psychosocial, individual, and school factors associated with a teacher’s intention to leave the profession. Using a sample of UAE-based teachers from the PISA 2022 teacher questionnaire (N = 10,092), logistic regression analysis indicated that psychosocial variables – such as satisfaction, ability to concentrate in the work setting, physical health symptoms, work stress, and work overload – are the strongest predictors of the likelihood of a teacher intending to leave classroom teaching and explain over a quarter of the variance, compared to other individual and school-related factors. These results discuss how schools and policymakers can address teacher attrition through tailored initiatives to enhance teacher satisfaction and reduce work stress
Plant-based Phytoconstituents/Bioactive Compounds as Preventive and Therapeutic Agents for Their Nephrolithiasis/Anti-nephrolithiasis Properties
No full textIntroduction: Nephrolithiasis, also known as kidney stones, is a common illness characterized by intense pain and multiple other issues. The development of stones is affected by metabolic processes as well as dietary and genetic factors, frequently leading to their recurrence. Traditional therapies, although effective, still have the risk of adverse effects or relapse. Plant-based phytoconstituents as well as bioactive compounds have emerged as an alternative strategy for the prevention and management of nephrolithiasis.
Methods: This review examines plant-derived bioactive substances used in nephrolithiasis prevention and treatment using digital databases like Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed, focusing on medicinal plants and nephrolithiasis management. The study evaluates a plant’s potential as a nutritional agent, its phytochemical and bioactive properties, its targeting of specific renal stones, and its mechanism of action.
Discussion: Various phytochemical compounds exhibit potential anti-nephrolithiasis effects by obstructing crystal formation, diminishing mineral supersaturation, and facilitating stone expulsion. Compounds that belong to Tribulus terrestris, Phyllanthus niruri, and Citrus limon, have demonstrated the ability to inhibit the aggregation of stone-forming compounds, including calcium oxalate (CaOx), uric acid, and phosphate. Moreover, these herbs demonstrate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities that may alleviate kidney problems linked to stone formation. Even though preclinical studies are encouraging, more clinical trials are needed to prove that these phytotherapeutic interventions are safe and effective.
Conclusion: Bioactive substances derived from plants have a lot of potential as both preventative and therapeutic agents for nephrolithiasis. They could provide an effective and long-lasting treatment for kidney stones
Implementation of the Principle of Legality in Environmental Law Enforcement in Indonesia
No full textThe principle of legality in the context of the environment emphasizes that no environmental crime can be punished if it is not regulated in the applicable laws and regulations. This principle provides legal certainty for perpetrators of environmental crimes and provides clear boundaries regarding actions that are permitted and prohibited. The criminal provisions in Law No. 32 of 2009 explicitly regulate and limit an act that is categorized as an environmental crime. These provisions are the implementation of the principle of legality that is applied strictly. Law enforcement is necessary to create order in society. According to Mertokusumo, law enforcement means how the law must be implemented so that in enforcing the law, the elements of legal certainty, benefit, and justice must be considered. Criminal environmental law enforcement is based on the principle of legality, both in material and formal aspects. Criminal environmental law enforcement activities are only valid if the material substance is based on environmental articles, most of which are scattered outside the Criminal Code, and enforcement activities are carried out in accordance with Law No. 8 of 1981 concerning Criminal Procedure Law and guided by the Decree of the Minister of Justice of the Republic of Indonesia No. M.01.PW.07.03 of 1982 concerning Guidelines for the Implementation of the Criminal Procedure Code. This scientific research used the normative legal research method based on written regulations and other literature that examines aspects of theory, structure, and legal explanations related to this research. It adopted a statutory approach and data were collected using a literature study. Criminal provisions in Law No. 32 of 2009 explicitly regulate and limit an act that is categorized as an environmental crime. These provisions are the implementation of the principle of legality that is strictly applied. Outside of these provisions, it is not a crime. Although the impacts caused can damage, pollute, or cause harm to the environment. This condition is very susceptible to being misinterpreted and becomes a legal loophole for perpetrators to avoid the criminal law enforcement process. Therefore, it is necessary to know the essence of the principle of legality in Indonesian criminal law and its application to the enforcement of environmental criminal law
Evaluation of Environmental Policies in Mitigating the Impact of Climate Change on Biodiversity in Bali
No full textGlobal climate change has had a significant impact on biodiversity in the Province of Bali, which holds a strategic position as a center of tropical ecology and ecological culture. The island faces environmental pressures due to rising temperatures, sea level rise, and extreme weather changes that disrupt ecosystem balance, particularly in critical areas such as tropical forests, mangroves, and coral reefs. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the Bali Provincial Government’s environmental policies in responding to the challenges of climate change on biodiversity. The approach used is legal-sociological with a descriptive-analytical method, through field studies, interviews with stakeholders, and analysis of legal documents and regional policies. The results of the study show that policies such as the Regional Action Plan for Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation (RAD-API/MPI) and Bali Governor Regulation No. 97 of 2018 have demonstrated the local government’s commitment to climate mitigation and environmental protection. However, their implementation still faces institutional barriers, regulatory overlaps, and low local community participation. On the other hand, community-based strategies such as customary forest management, mangrove rehabilitation, and environmental education have made positive contributions to strengthening ecosystem resilience. An integrative, science-based policy approach and sustainable community capacity building are needed to ensure the effective protection of biodiversity in Bali in the face of climate change threats
Climate Change Affects Biodiversity and its Impact on Human Rights
No full textThe purpose of this article is to examine and analyze climate change affecting biodiversity, and its impact on human rights. The type of research used in this study is normative legal research. The method or data collection technique used in this study is literature study. This method is carried out by conducting an inventory and studying library data in the form of laws and regulations, books, journals, articles, documents and official websites. Based on the discussion above, it can be concluded that climate change and biodiversity loss are interrelated global challenges and can have a significant impact on human rights. Climate change threatens human rights because it causes more frequent and severe natural disasters, and disrupts the availability of important resources such as water, food, and agricultural land. Biodiversity loss can also threaten human rights because it reduces the availability of food sources, medicines, and other important resources. Climate change and biodiversity loss are challenges that require joint action from governments, international organizations, and civil society. Efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect habitats, and raise awareness of the importance of biodiversity are essential to protecting human rights and ensuring a sustainable future
Optimization of Warehouse Management in Limited Land in the Port Area and Environmental Cleanliness
No full textWarehouse managers in ports are responsible for managing and maintaining warehouses within the port, encompassing the receipt, storage, processing, and distribution of goods. They ensure the efficiency and safety of warehouse operations and comply with applicable regulations. This study aims to determine the management of warehouses in ports with limited land since maintaining environmental cleanliness requires careful planning and strategy. The approach employed is a descriptive-analytical method that utilizes primary and secondary data, including library studies. Here are some key considerations regarding the use of technology. Logistics: Implement a warehouse management system (WMS) and automation technology to maximize utility, utilizing high shelves, conveyor systems, and robots. Space arrangement: Make efficient arrangements by sorting goods based on frequency of use, size, and characteristics. Utilize vertical space: Leverage the warehouse’s height by installing vertical shelves or storage systems. Warehouse mapping: Create precise warehouse mapping to facilitate the search and storage of goods. Pollution prevention and environmental cleanliness: Ensure safe waste disposal by determining procedures that comply with environmental regulations, including separating waste types and implementing proper processing methods. Limited use of chemicals: Avoid using hazardous chemicals and opt for environmentally friendly alternatives. Prevention of leaks and pollution: Conduct routine inspections of equipment and storage tanks to prevent leaks and contamination. Cleanliness maintenance: Conduct routine cleaning of the warehouse and surrounding areas to prevent the spread of germs and odors. Use of air conditioning systems: Utilize a well-ventilated system to prevent the accumulation of dust and hazardous gases