bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementasi Hukum Pidana Adat Terhadap Pelaku Tindak Pidana Incest Di Indonesia (Studi Kasus Di Kabupaten Rejang Lebong)
Authors: Adimaya Salwa
Published: July 2024

Incest merupakan perbuatan yang melanggar nilai-nilai agama, moral dam kesusilaan. Pengaturan tindak pidana incest secara eksplisit tercantum dalam Pasal 294 ayat (1) KUHP, namun belum ada pengaturan secara khusus terkait perbuatan incest. Maka dari itu, hukum pidana adat dapat berlaku ketika hukum positif tidak mengaturnya. Salah satu kasus incest yang terjadi di Kabupaten Rejang Lebong dimana orang tua pelaku incest dikenakan sanksi adat berupa dihukum cuci kampung dengan dicambuk menggunakan lidi. Jenis penelitian ini adalah penelitian yuridis normative dengan pendekatan kasus dan pendekatan perbandingan. Dari hasil penelitian ini dapat disimpulkan bahwa penerapan sanksi adat terhadap pelaku tindak pidana incest berbeda-beda di tiap wilyah adat. Mulai dari membayar uang denda, dihukum cambuk, dikucilkan dari linkungan hingga dilempar ke laut. Penerapan sanksi adat ini semata-mata untuk mengembalikan keseimbangan Masyarakat yang telah tergoncang akibat perbuatan pelaku dan merupakan bentuk perwujudan eksistensi hukum pidana adat di Indonesia,
The Influence of Training, and Motivation, on Teacher Performance Mediated by Reward Penabur Christian Elementary School Gading Serpong
Authors: Parmonangan Rocki
Published: July 2024

In the world of education, educators or teachers play a very important role. Teachers are the main implementers of teaching and learning activities in the school environment. To achieve optimal results, teachers must be supported by quality human resources. One of the critical factors in building superior human resources in education is teacher performance. Teacher performance is reflected in the thoughts and efforts given in carrying out their duties as teachers. Improving the quality of teachers contributes significantly to increasing the productivity and effectiveness of the education process in schools. In particular, at Penabur Gading Serpong Christian Elementary School (SDK), teachers play a central role in the effort to build a better quality education. The success of this school is due to the role of teachers as implementers of teaching and learning activities. Despite mastering various subjects, without the support of quality human resources, teachers cannot achieve optimal results. This study aims to determine the effect of training, motivation on employee or teacher performance mediated by rewards. Located at SDK Penabur Gading Serpong, totaling 70 (Seventy) people and all members of the population as well as the sample so that this research is census research. The results of this analysis show that all indicators used in this study are valid and reliable. This study uses a Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) approach based on Partial Least Square (PLS) using SmartPLS 3.3 software. This study provides evidence of a positive and significant effect
Pengujian Usabilitas Pada Penggunaan Platform Scratch
Authors: Zakia Access Asmaul Khusna  , Yovi Litanianda
Published: July 2024

This research tests the usability of the platform on new students of Informatics Engineering. Usability of is measured through three main variables: effectiveness, efficiency, and user satisfaction. Data was collected through pre-test and post-test involving 20 respondents using questionnaires and practical tasks. 20 respondents using questionnaires and practical tasks. The results of the study showed that the effectiveness and efficiency of the Scratch platform increased significantly from the pre-test to the post-test, reaching a level of effectiveness and efficiency, showing that the time required to complete programming tasks is reduced once users are familiar with the platform. User satisfaction also increased, with the majority of respondents feeling more comfortable and interested in using Scratch after testing. This research concludes that the Scratch platform is effective and efficient as a programming learning tool for new Informatics Engineering students.
Evaluasi User Experience EduSmart Menggunakan System Usability Scale (SUS)
Authors: Amanda Zulfi Kurnia Tsani
Published: July 2024

Utilizing the System Usability Scale (SUS) method, the goal of this study is to understand the challenges faced by eduSMart users. Edusmart is an online learning platform. A survey consisting of several questions is conducted using the SUS method to improve the quality of work, efficiency, and ease of use. This study indicates that the user's SUS score indicates the use of tinggi. In the end, the platform needs to be improved to increase its capacity. The study's findings indicate how users should use the Edusmart platform and provide helpful advice for improving users' efficiency and enjoyment. The research findings can be used as a reference for future studies that assess the value of digital learning systems.
Investigating the role of antimicrobial specialized metabolites and bacteriocins in the vaginal microbial community
Authors:   , Dillen Jelle
Published: July 2024

Urogenital infections are major contributors to antibiotic prescriptions, but treatment efficacy is compromised by antibiotic resistance. Additionally, antibiotics disrupt beneficial microbiota, increasing the risk of relapses and side effects. This highlights the urgent need for alternatives, such as microbiome-altering therapies. A vaginal microbiome dominated by lactobacilli, such as L. crispatus and L. jensenii, is associated with vaginal and urogenital health and is considered an "optimal" microbiome. A depletion of Lactobacillus species in the vagina has been linked to higher risks of bacterial, fungal, and viral infections in the vagina and other urogenital sites. While lactobacilli are known for their lactic acid production, their other antimicrobial compounds, including bacteriocins, nonribosomal peptides, and polyketides, remain understudied. To enhance our understanding of their role, we utilized extensive data and samples from the Isala citizen science study, isolating over 900 Lactobacillaceae strains. Genomic analysis of 242 selected isolates revealed 514 biosynthetic gene clusters, mostly novel, including ribosomally-synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides, nonribosomal peptides, and polyketides. This genetic diversity highlights the untapped potential of Lactobacillaceae for specialized metabolite discovery. Further investigation into the diversity of L. crispatus isolates, coupled with their antimicrobial properties against common vaginal pathogens, revealed clear links between phylogeny, biosynthetic potential, activity, and vaginal community composition. One strain exhibited particularly high activity against tested pathogens, which correlated with the presence of a novel lanthipeptide cluster. This cluster's antifungal activity was validated through in silico characterization and heterologous expression in Escherichia coli. Additionally, we aimed to characterize a novel antimicrobial from L. jensenii, conserved across the species, which showed activity against the Gram-negative pathogen Klebsiella pneumoniae, a cause of adverse pregnancy outcomes and vaginal infections. In summary, by characterizing an antifungal from a specific L. crispatus isolate and a species-conserved antimicrobial from L. jensenii, we have laid the groundwork for developing novel probiotics, live biotherapeutic products, or specialized metabolites.
Stakeholder Participation in Needs Assessment and Sustainability of Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) Projects in Mount Elgon Sub-County, Kenya
Authors: Wesonga Alphonce , Abuya Isaac
Published: July 2024

Most projects are customized in project management. Hence, successful accomplishment of the projects requires stakeholder participation. Moreover, the management of stakeholder’s participation in OVC projects is1 receiving more concentration in practice. The objective of the study was to establish the influence of stakeholder participation on sustainability of OVC projects in Mount Elgon Sub-County, Kenya. We sought to establish the influence of stakeholder participation in needs assessment on sustainability of OVC projects in Mount Elgon Sub-County, Kenya. The two grounding theories were; Freeman’s stakeholder theory and resource-based theory. The study employed a descriptive survey research design with a target population of 176 and a sample size of 122 stakeholders. The study applied quantitative methods of data collection. The questionnaires were pre-coded to ease data entry. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS to obtain frequency distributions, percentages, mean and standard deviations. The study findings delineates that stakeholder participation in needs assessment is significant in influencing sustainability of OVC projects with correlation coefficients of (r=0.623; P<0.000). The study concluded that stakeholder participation in need assessment significantly influences sustainability of OVC projects. The study subsequently recommended that stakeholder participation in needs assessment should be comprehensively undertaken during implementation of OVC projects in order to enhance their sustainability.
Mathematical Modeling of Road Accidents in Metro Manila
Authors: Gayo Willy S. , Urrutia Jackie D. , Bautista Lincoln A. , Baccay Edcon B.
Published: July 2024

Road accidents in the Philippines have been identified as one of the causes of deaths in the country. It is one of the top five causes of morbidity and mortality in South-East Asian countries. Its socioeconomic repercussions are matter of great concern. These accidents have been categorized by Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) as fatal, non-fatal and damage to property cases. This classification is based on the extent of damage to human lives and to the properties. The purpose of this study is to find out the contribution of other factors such as types of vehicles involved in the road accidents, days of the week in which the accident occurred and the location where the accident happened. Poisson regression was used to model the road accidents in Metro Manila by the help of Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS). The data were taken from the MMDA from 2008-2013. This study found out that accidents mostly occurred during Fridays at Quezon City and car is the most prone vehicle to road accident.
Guest Satisfaction towards the Services of Staff of Fernandina 88 Suites Hotel
Authors: Cornell Daryl Ace V.
Published: July 2024

Service quality is one of the main ingredients for success in the hospitality industry. Rendering a high quality of service to satisfy the guest expectations is one of the priorities in a hotel. Fernandina 88 Suites has been catering to different kinds of guests may it be celebrities or common business people. That is why service quality is of the consideration. This study aimed to evaluate the level of guest satisfaction of Fernandina 88 Suites Hotel towards the service quality of the front office staff, as a basis for service development and reference within the hotel. The descriptive method (survey) was used. Accidental sampling was utilized and 258 guests were the respondents. The over-all satisfaction of the guests towards the service quality of the hotel along the five dimensions is at a good level. Most guests claimed that responsiveness is the most important dimension, followed by Empathy, Tangibility, Assurance, and Reliability. In this study, Responsiveness dimension was the most essential factor. Most guests acknowledged the importance of providing prompt services and the staff’s enthusiasm to help them.
Pembelajaran Sastra Terintegrasi Pendidikan Gender
Authors: Ansori Redhitya Wempi , Yulianto Agus
Published: July 2024

Peran institusi pendidikan untuk memahamkan perihal gender sangat fundamental, karena pendidikan merupakan jalan terang yang membawa manusia menjadi manusia seutuhnya. pendidikan sastra dalam konteks ini dianggap tepat untuk memperkenalkan konsep gender kepada peserta didik.  Penelitian ini menggunakan penelitian Kulitatif. Kajian ini menggunakan penelusuran berbagai pustaka yang ada. Pustaka tersebut berasal dari jurnal, dokumen, prosiding. Bagian yang menjadi fokus adalah pembelajaran sastra yang terintegrasi dengan pendidikan gender. Instrumen yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah peneliti itu sendiri. Analsis data menggunakan reduksi data, Penyajian data, dan verifikasi Keabsahan data menggunakan trriangulasi data. Pembelajaran sastra terintergrasi dengan pendidikan gender dapat diwujudkan dengan Kompetensi dasar, penggunaan media dan sumber ajar, dan metode pembelajaran. Sedangkan, output yang diharapkan adalah pemahaman kesetaraan gender, saling menghargai, sehingga tidak terjadi dominasi, memahami peran sesuai dengan tugas dan porsi kewajiban masing-masing, memiliki kesamaan akses, dan memliki hak berpartisipasi dalam bidang apapun.
Musical analysis of Sardool Sikander’s Songs
Authors: Sharma Dr.Rajesh , Singh Satnam
Published: July 2024

Abstract: The people of Punjab have always had a flamboyant nature. Here, people dance, sing, and celebrate on every joyous occasion. Each festival in Punjab has its own unique traditions that form the basis for music and songs. Even during weddings, various types of songs are sung. In Punjab, people from all religions live together harmoniously. Each religion has its own traditional music and songs. At religious places, people sing religious songs related to their faith, like Qawwalis and Sufi music at the shrines of saints. In Hinduism, devotional songs related to deities are sung during Jagrans or birth festivals. In Christianity, hymns related to Jesus and Psalms are sung. Similarly, in Sikhism, Shabad Kirtan, Kavishri, and Vaars related to Gurbani are performed. It can be succinctly said that even though the people here are deeply religious, they are also closely connected to music. There has always been immense love and respect for musicians among the people of Punjab. This is why Punjabi music has flourished not only in India but also abroad. Over time, many artists have entertained people through their music. Even before the era of recordings, artists have contributed significantly in elevating Punjabi music to new heights. In the culture of Punjab, where men have received honor and respect in every field, they have also continued to showcase their singing prowess over time and have earned fame, including Asa Singh Mastana, Shri Lal Chand Yamla Jatt, Sukhjinder Shinda, Kuldeep Manak, Padam Shri Puran Chand Wadali, Gurdas Maan, Padam Shri Hansraj Hans, and Sardool Sikander. The subject of the research paper below is a musical study of Sardool Sikander Ji’s singing. Keywords: Singing, Punjab, Raag, Taal, Rhythm, Song.
भाई गुरदास जीवन एवम रचनाएं : वार ‘पहली‘ के विशेष संदर्भ में
Authors: सिंह हसनदीप , शर्मा डॉ. राजेश
Published: July 2024

सार – भारत अपनी विशाल परंपरा के लिए पूरे विश्व में जाना जाता है। यहां अलग अलग धर्मो और जातों के लोग रहते हैं। जो अलग अलग धर्म से संबंधित अपने संतों, गुरुओं, भक्तों की आराधना करते हैं। ऐसे ही एक आदरणीय गुरसिख जिनका नाम सिख धर्म में बहुत आदर और सम्मान से लिया जाता है जिन्होंने अपना पूरा जीवन गुरु घर की सेवा और सिमरन में लगा दिया। जिन्हें हरमंदर साहिब दरबार साहिब (अमृतसर) में बाबा बूढ़ा जी के बाद दूसरे मुख्य ग्रंथी (सेवादार) की उपाधि प्राप्त थी। भाई गुरदास जी ने अपनी सेवा और अपनी रचनाओं के जरिए समाज को एक नई दिशा प्रदान की। उन्होंने पंजाबी जगत के लिए भी बहुत ही सराहनीय कार्य किए। अपनी बाणी में उन्होंने नैतिक मूल्यों पर मनुष्य का ध्यान केंद्रित किया। उनकी रचनाएं ऐतिहासिक शोध के लिए बहुत ही बेहतरीन संसाधन है। इनकी वारों को सिख धर्म में कीर्तन रूप में बहुत ही सहज भाव से गया जाता है। इस शोध पत्र में भाई गुरदास जी के जीवन एवम रचनाओं पर चर्चा की गई है और शोध पत्र उनके द्वारा रचित वारों में से सिर्फ पहली वार पर ही आधारित है । Keywords: भाई गुरदास, वार, सिख धर्म, कीर्तन, पौंडी
Key-Plain Mapping Algorithm: A Symmetric Key Cryptographic Technique for Secure Communication
Authors: Bhowmik Sutanuka , Mandal Anirban
Published: July 2024

Abstract:- In the realm of cryptography, ensuring secure communication is paramount. Symmetric key cryptographic techniques offer a robust means of encryption and decryption. The Key-Plain Mapping Algorithm presents a novel approach to symmetric key cryptography, utilizing a fixed keyword and systematic mapping between plaintext and ciphertext alphabets. This thesis delves into the principles, operations, and security aspects of the Key-Plain Mapping Algorithm, demonstrating its efficacy in securing digital communication. Keywords:- plain text; cipher text or encrypted message; encryption; decryption; symmetric key cryptography; decrypted message; keyword
EKSPLORASI JENIS-JENIS LEBAH MADU TAK BERSENGAT DI KEPULAUAN ARU
Authors: Kwalepa Santy , Tan Lieke , Lamerkabel Jacobus
Published: July 2024

Exelation aims to find what types of stingless honey bees are there in the Aru Islands. The research was carried out on the Aru Islands, Wamar Island (Wangel and Durdiela Village), Kobror Island (Warbola and Benana Village), and Koba Island (Mutrai and Koba Village) from March to July 2022. The method used in preciation in Vata is a descriptive method, namely identifying stingless honey bees through observation, morphological characteristics and measurements, morphometrics and describing the location of the eccomium. Research shows that stingless honey bee stings were found. In Kalman Aru there were 36 active colonies at a height of 1-241 cm, with nesting sites found namely cave cavities, stone cavities and Ulouran rates. The average morphometric character of Tetragonula capens worker stratum bees found was long. body 374-4 25mm, head width 177-1 81mm. head space 1 47-1 55mm, wing length 3.81-4-35mm, antenna length 170-173mm, while Tetragonula cobalteata which was found, body length 278-324mm, head width 1 18-132 mm, head length 109-123 mm wing length and tegula 316-3.22 mm, and antenna length 2 18-2.22 mm.
Peningkatan Motivasi Belajar Siswa melalui Media Interaktif pada Mata Pelajaran SKI di SD
Authors: Asyraf M. , Andary Lisa , Sastrawati Eka , Nazurti Nazurti , Indryani Indryani
Published: July 2024

This research discusses interactive media in increasing the learning motivation of fourth grade students in the History of Islamic Culture subject in elementary schools. In the beginning, fourth grade elementary school students did not have enthusiasm for learning and also with the rapid development of technology today, we need to utilize this technology in the field of education. This research focuses on increasing the learning motivation of fourth grade students in elementary schools. And this research uses the classroom action research method. The data collection stage went through several stages, namely, interviews, lesson plans, questionnaires, motivation and documentation. Classroom action research must also be carried out for a minimum of 2 cycles. After carrying out cycle I and cycle II learning activities using interactive media, the motivation and even enthusiasm of class IV students experienced a significant increase in learning, so that we can draw the conclusion that by using interactive media we can increase students' learning motivation in the Cultural History subject. Islamic class IV elementary school.
Pelaksanaan Penilaian Diagnostik Non Kognitif di Sekolah Dasar
Authors: Trisna Trisna , Anggelina Selin Edri , Nazurty Nazurty , Indryani Indryani , Sastrawati Eka
Published: July 2024

The aim of the research carried out is to analyze how non-cognitive diagnostic assessments are carried out. This research uses descriptive analytical methods with a qualitative approach. The data collection techniques used were through observation, questionnaires and interviews. The research subjects were class V students at SDN 160/IV Jambi City with a total of 13 students. Meanwhile, data analysis is carried out through data reduction, data presentation and drawing conclusions. The results of the planning analysis obtained data that class V students at SDN 160/IV Jambi City had sufficient development or needed to be improved as evidenced by 23% or 3 out of 13 students having very good emotional development, 38% or 5 out of 13 students having emotional development which is good, 38% or 5 out of 13 students have sufficient emotions or need to be improved. The students' learning motivation is very good, as evidenced by 30% or 4 out of 13 students having very good learning motivation, 46% or 6 out of 13 students having good learning motivation, and 23% or 3 out of 13 students having sufficient learning motivation (necessary improved. Meanwhile, the learning styles of students tend to vary, namely 3 students have a visual learning style, 4 students have an auditory learning style, and 6 students have a kinesthetic learning style.
Pentingnya Evaluasi Pembelajaran pada Tingkat Sekolah Dasar di SD Negeri 194/VI Tambang Emas I
Authors: Sastrawati Eka , Indryani Indryani , Nazurti Nazurti , Darwin Carles , Syifa Putri
Published: July 2024

This research aims to determine students' abilities regarding evaluations carried out by teachers at SD Negeri 194/VI Tambang Emas I. This research is a type of Classroom Action Research. Implementing classroom learning will have an impact on increasing teacher abilities, because a competent teacher is a teacher who is able to manage the class and evaluate students individually and in groups. Learning evaluation is a process of determining the level of achievement of predetermined learning objectives through a systematic method. Learning evaluation aims to collect information that is the basis for measuring the level of progress, development and learning achievements of students, as well as the effectiveness of educators in teaching. The results of the research show that teachers at SD Negeri 194/VI Tambang Emas I will provide an evaluation after repeating the lessons that have been learned and after that the teachers explain the lessons that will be learned using observation media for students so that students find out for themselves and after that the teacher will explain.
Model Program Pembelajaran Bahasa Arab Non-Formal
Authors: Zaky Ahmad , Ritonga Ade Muhammad , Harahap Muhammad Sapii
Published: July 2024

This article discusses the concept of Arabic language learning models applied to non-formal education, the method used to obtain data in this article is a literature review, the results of this article are useful as a reference for effective and efficient Arabic language learning for both formal and non-formal education. formal, this article also describes the appropriate approach to be taken in learning Arabic in the current era, this article also describes the steps that must be taken by teachers, educators, instructors and others, as a reference in adopting methods and techniques to achieve the goals desired Arabic language learning. It is hoped that the problems in learning Arabic both from a linguistic and non-linguistic perspective can be explained by carrying out further experiments and research. The author hopes that researchers, teachers and experts in Arabic language education will be able to continue researching, applying concepts to learning, as well as funding and budgeting. Arabic language learning project for this conceptualized model.
Manajemen Kurikulum Pembelajaran Pendidikan Agama Islam di Era Digital
Authors: Neliwati Neliwati , Pohan Hadi Lapian , Rambe Faisal Fahmi
Published: July 2024

The development of information and communication technology (ICT) has changed the educational paradigm as a whole, including Islamic Religious Education (PAI). The digital era brings new opportunities as well as challenges that need to be overcome to maximize the potential of Islamic education. PAI curriculum management in the digital era requires appropriate strategies for integrating technology to increase the relevance and effectiveness of learning. The integration of technology in PAI curriculum management can increase interactivity and learning quality. Adequate technological infrastructure and solid digital skills are required from educators and students. Tailoring relevant content is key to delivering effective learning. Literature studies emphasize curriculum development that is responsive to technology, innovative learning methods, and technology-based evaluation. Policies that support the use of technology in PAI need to be improved to ensure safe and effective use. This research uses a qualitative approach to identify main themes in PAI curriculum management in the digital era, showing that ICT integration can strengthen the quality of PAI learning and prepare students to face global challenges in the digital era.
 
Abstrak
Perkembangan teknologi informasi dan komunikasi (TIK) telah mengubah paradigma pendidikan secara menyeluruh, termasuk dalam Pendidikan Agama Islam (PAI). Era digital membawa peluang baru sekaligus tantangan yang perlu diatasi untuk memaksimalkan potensi pendidikan Islam. Manajemen kurikulum PAI di era digital memerlukan strategi yang tepat untuk mengintegrasikan teknologi guna meningkatkan relevansi dan efektivitas pembelajaran. Integrasi teknologi dalam manajemen kurikulum PAI dapat meningkatkan interaktivitas dan kualitas pembelajaran. Diperlukan infrastruktur teknologi yang memadai serta keterampilan digital yang solid dari pendidik dan peserta didik. Penyesuaian konten yang relevan merupakan kunci dalam menghadirkan pembelajaran yang efektif. Studi literatur menekankan pengembangan kurikulum yang responsif terhadap teknologi, metode pembelajaran inovatif, dan evaluasi berbasis teknologi. Kebijakan yang mendukung penggunaan teknologi dalam PAI perlu ditingkatkan untuk memastikan pemanfaatan yang aman dan efektif. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif untuk mengidentifikasi tema-tema utama dalam manajemen kurikulum PAI di era digital, menunjukkan bahwa integrasi TIK dapat memperkuat kualitas pembelajaran PAI dan mempersiapkan siswa menghadapi tantangan global dalam era digital.
La posedición en el aula de traducción jurídica: un estudio exploratorio / Post-editing in the Legal Translation Classroom: an Exploratory Study
Authors: Accogli Francesca
Published: July 2024

This article addresses the challenges and opportunities posed by the use of machine translation (MT) and post-editing (PE) in the training of legal translators in the Spanish-Italian combination. The aim is to find out whether students who do not have specific training in MT and PE, but a sufficiently developed translation competence, are able to successfully apply the MT and PE concepts learned during a short workshop in their Specialized Translation course and, as a result, produce a satisfactory post-edited translation of acceptable quality. The results show that students have an inward critical attitude towards the use of MT, so they are not influenced by the MT output. Moreover, they have adequate skills to immediately detect not only most of the errors related to concordance and lack of logic, but also the more hidden ones that require a subsequent revision.
POL-INTEL
Authors: Kammersgaard Christensen Tanja
Published: July 2024

AbstractSince the adoption of Section 2a of the Danish Police Act in 2017, the police have been able to conduct cross-sectional information analyses in IT systems designed for this purpose, and thus process personal data for purposes other than those for which they were originally collected. This is regulated by the Executive Order on Cross-sectional Information Analyses. According to this executive order, the police shall use the POL-INTEL system to perform the analyses. The article discusses the police’s use of personal data for new purposes based on the Law Enforcement Directive, the Danish Law Enforcement Act, and relevant case law from the European Court of Justice. It assesses whether the regulation of POL-INTEL in the Executive Order on Cross-sectional Information Analyses adheres to the principles of purpose limitation, data minimisation and legality, or whether there is a need for changes to the Danish regulation .
The pattern of antibiotic utilisation among intensive care unit patients hospitalised in a Gauteng (South African) provincial tertiary hospital: Comparing findings before and during COVID-19
Authors: Spinickum L , Booth Z , Leigh-de Rapper S
Published: July 2024

Background. Various mechanisms may contribute to and direct the progression of antibiotic resistance. A prominent driver associated with antibiotic resistance is inappropriate use or consumption. The sudden emergence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19 ) changed the conventional practices related to antibiotic utilisation through repurposing the use of antibiotics. Apart from the implementation of antibiotic stewardship programmes, the pressure COVID-19 placed on healthcare systems resulted in poor prescribing and medication review practices, potentially exacerbating antibiotic resistance. Furthermore, the public health system has issues that make it difficult to routinely monitor, quantify antibiotic consumption, and offer evaluation, feedback and intervention, particularly in low- and middle- income countries such as South Africa (SA). Therefore, this study aimed to determine antibiotic utilisation before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in a Gauteng provincial tertiary hospital (GPTH) in SA.
Objective. To determine, examine, and compare antibiotic consumption among intensive care unit (ICU) patients admitted to a GPTH during the pre-COVID-19 period and during the COVID-19 pandemic, in addition to determining the prevalence of the World Health Organisation (WHO) ‘watch’ category antibiotics before and following the emergence of COVID-19 .
Methods. A retrospective cross-sectional data analysis was undertaken of 335 medical files of ICU patients hospitalised in a GPTH between January 2017 and December 2021. Descriptive statistics were used to examine patient characteristics and antibiotic prescribing variables (antibiotic selection, dosage, route of administration, frequency, duration of course and indication for which antibiotic was prescribed).
Results. The study found that the most frequently prescribed antibiotics were amoxicillin in combination with clavulanate (pre-pandemic 31.99%; amid-COVID-19 38.43%), followed by ceftriaxone (pre-pandemic 15.44%; amid-COVID-19 14.55%), piperacillin in combination with tazobactam (pre-pandemic 11.40%; amid-COVID-19 8.58%) and azithromycin (pre-pandemic 7.725%; amid-COVID-19 19.78%).
Conclusion. The macrolide and penicillin (in combination with a beta-lactamase inhibitor) classes demonstrated an increase in consumption from the pre-pandemic period moving into the COVID-19 pandemic. This highlights the need for improved antibiotic stewardship programmes and policies to combat inappropriate and unnecessary antibiotic usage.
Response to Doctors for Life on assisted suicide
Authors: Joseph C A
Published: July 2024

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Death trends for 2010 - 2022 for members of a large private medical scheme in South Africa
Authors: Steenkamp L , Collie S , Moultrie T A , Moultrie H , Gray G
Published: July 2024

Background. In the absence of more recent national data on underlying causes of death in South Africa (SA), we examined mortality trends from 2010 to 2022 among members of a large private medical scheme. This analysis sheds light on the health profile of this specific demographic. Objective. To investigate trends in Discovery Health Medical Scheme (DHMS) members’ death rates and underlying cause of death patterns between 2010 and 2022.
Methods. All-cause deaths were compared across years accounting for demographic changes, by analysing age- and sex-standardised rates using 2019 age and sex population weightings. We used underlying cause-of-death data from death notifications.
Results. The 2019 age- and sex-standardised death rate was lower than the 2010 rate by 10%, with a steady decline experienced between 2010 and 2019. We have seen reduced age- and sex-standardised death rates from HIV/AIDS during this period, and despite the high prevalence, reduced age- and sex-standardised death rates from non-communicable diseases. Malignant neoplasms and cardiovascular disease have been and remained the two leading causes of death for Discovery Health Medical Scheme (DHMS) clients between 2012 and 2022. Age- and sex- standardised death rates, however, reached historic high levels during the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic in SA. In 2020, overall age- and sex-standardised death rates for DHMS members increased to 542 deaths per 100 000 life years, which was higher than pre-pandemic levels. Age- and sex-standardised death rates went on to reach their highest level in the history of the scheme in 2021, at 767 deaths per 100 000 life years. Age- and sex-standardised death rates, however, had returned to near 2019 (pre-pandemic) levels by 2022, at 477 deaths per 100 000 life years. Males experienced a higher increase in age-standardised death rates during 2020 and remained at an increased risk of death in 2022 compared with pre-pandemic levels. When COVID-19 -related deaths are excluded, the age-standardised rates for both females and males in 2022 was lower than observed in the pre-pandemic years. While the low mortality experience could be related to competing causes and mortality displacement, further analysis over a longer period is needed to confirm this.
Conclusion. DHMS experienced the highest level of age- and sex-standardised death rates during 2020 and 2021, the initial 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic. Most of this increase was explained by COVID-19 deaths.
The problems of defining and applying the concepts of gender equality and gender inequality in Russian law
Authors: Madatov Oleg Yakovlevich
Published: July 2024

The article examines the issues of the emergence, development and current state of the scientific problem of defining the concepts of gender equality (inequality), as well as the law enforcement aspect of its solution in the Russian Federation and in foreign countries. The object of the study is public relations between the state and citizens of Russia on issues of equality of rights, freedoms, opportunities for their realization and obligations established by Part 2 of Article 6 and Part 3 of Article 19 of the Constitution of the Russian Federation. The subject of the study is the norms of constitutional (Part 2 of Article 6, Part 3 of Article 19 and paragraph "zh.1" of Part 1 of Article 72 of the Constitution of the Russian Federation), civil (part 1 of Article 12 of the RF IC) and administrative law (Part 2 of Article 3.9 and Part 2 of Article 4.2 of the Administrative Code of the Russian Federation), other normative legal acts and judicial acts defining gender equality (inequality) of citizens. In the course of the work, dialectical, logical, systemic, functional, formal-legal, comparative-legal research methods were used. The aim of the study is to develop a uniform approach to establishing the concepts of gender equality (inequality) in order to eliminate the problems of ambiguous interpretation and conflict of legislation in modern science and law enforcement practice. This goal has determined the need to set and solve the following tasks: 1. Research on the concepts of gender equality (inequality) as legal categories in the Russian Federation and foreign countries. 2. Formulation of uniform definitions of gender equality (inequality). 3. Definition of the main difference between the concepts of gender equality (inequality). 4. Consideration of the possibility of applying the author's concepts of gender equality (inequality) in law enforcement practice and in normative acts. The study showed that there is no single approach to understanding gender equality (inequality) in modern science and law enforcement practice. Most modern concepts of gender equality (inequality) are based on the recognition of the equality of rights and freedoms of men and women. The author of the article puts forward the theory that gender equality is a right guaranteed by the state and international legal acts, freedom, duties and opportunities to achieve them in relation to citizens without gender separation, and gender inequality, on the contrary, acts as a discriminatory sign in relation to citizens depending on their gender.
On some features of the recognition of an administrative offense in the field of traffic as insignificant
Authors: Sidorov Eduard Tomovich , Nikonorov Evgenii Anatol'evich
Published: July 2024

The subject of the study was the legal norms contained both in Article 2.9 and in other norms of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Russian Federation, which empower a law enforcement officer, when considering a case of an administrative offense in the field of traffic, to release a person from administrative responsibility if the administrative offense is insignificant.The object of the study was the administrative legal relations that arise when a law enforcement officer implements the legal institution of releasing a person from administrative responsibility if an administrative offense is insignificant. The authors analyzed the positions of scientists who have studied this legal institution at various times. Special attention is paid to the decisions of the highest judicial authorities and judicial practice in this area by district and regional courts. The article proposes criteria for determining an administrative offense as a gross one, and substantiates the position that a gross administrative offense cannot be recognized as insignificant under any circumstances. The methodological basis of the research was the dialectical method of cognition, the fundamental principles of the scientific worldview. In the course of the study, methods of historical, comparative legal, concrete sociological, and statistical analysis were used. When preparing a scientific article, the authors of the article conducted a survey of traffic police officers. As a result of the conducted research, the following conclusions were formulated: 1. The range of public relations in the field of public administration protected by legislation on administrative offenses is so wide that it makes it impossible to establish specific criteria for recognizing an administrative offense as insignificant. 2. In order to fill this gap, the higher judicial authorities establish specific compositions of administrative offenses that cannot be recognized as insignificant. 4. It is necessary to introduce the concept of "gross administrative offense" in the Administrative Code of the Russian Federation, which should be understood as "administrative offenses, the repeated commission of which entails criminal liability." 5. Article 2.9 of the Administrative Code of the Russian Federation should be supplemented with the second part, which will contain the following legal norm: "Persons who have committed such administrative offenses, for which the repetition of their commission entails criminal liability, cannot be released from administrative responsibility in connection with the recognition of an act as insignificant."
Invocación a Dios en el Preámbulo de la Constitución uruguaya
Authors: González Merlano Gabriel
Published: July 2024

El presente artículo aborda el tema de la invocación a Dios en el Preámbulo de la Constitución en la República Oriental del Uruguay. Para ello, a través de la historia constitucional, se analiza cómo se forjó dicha invocación en la primera Carta de 1830, de corte confesional, y cómo fue eliminada en la reforma que dio origen a la Constitución de 1918, que separó el Estado de la Iglesia católica. Distintos momentos históricos y contextos políticos e ideológicos provocaron que el nombre de Dios, junto a todo el Preámbulo constitucional, fuera suprimido. La discusión en la Convención Constituyente, que da origen a esta decisión, y que tiene como antecedente un largo y profundo proceso de laicización, manifiesta claramente la intención de marginar el factor religioso y segregarlo del ámbito público.
laicidad positiva como modelo al que adscribe la Constitucional argentina en relación al fenómeno religioso
Authors: Santiago Alfonso
Published: July 2024

El objetivo de este artículo es describir las notas que caracterizan al modelo de laicidad positiva y examinar si ellas se encuentran presentes en el modo en que la Constitución Nacional argentina trata el fenómeno religioso.Para ello, se describirá inicialmente las notas propias de lo que denominamos laicidad positiva, luego se examinarán las cláusulas de la constitución argentina referidas a la religión y, finalmente, se analizará si las notas propias de la laicidad positiva están o no reflejadas en esas disposiciones constitucionales.
Curitiba, cidade inteligente, para quem?
Authors: Paludo Augustinho Vicente , Silva Christian Luiz da , Guimaraes Inácio Andruski
Published: July 2024

Tornar-se “inteligente” é o desejo da maioria das cidades, que aderem as novas tecnologias sem grande preocupação com os efeitos colaterais e com as pessoas. Todavia, nesse caminho, existem os que não dispõem de recursos e de conhecimentos para utilização dos serviços e soluções proporcionados pelas Tecnologias da Informação e Comunicação - TIC’s. Numa visão crítica das cidades inteligentes, questiona-se, “Curitiba é uma cidade inteligente para quem?” O objetivo é identificar os aspectos que tornam a cidade de Curitiba inteligente, quem está excluído do ambiente digital, e as iniciativas de inclusão. A pesquisa é qualitativa, aplicada e exploratória, e utiliza a técnica de análise de conteúdo e documental. Como resultado têm-se que as cidades focaram mais nas tecnologias que no social; e que os serviços e demais benefícios oferecidos pela prefeitura de Curitiba estão disponíveis para todos, mas aqueles eletrônicos não são acessíveis para cerca de 253.821 pessoas. Conclui-se que as cidades, para ostentarem o título de inteligente, devem reforçar as medidas sociais de inclusão digital, visto que nenhuma cidade será inteligente para as pessoas que estão excluídas.
Reflexões sobre o déficit habitacional no Brasil: as políticas públicas de habitação e o acesso ao direito à moradia
Authors: Amorim Philippe Macedo Garcia , Bassan Dilani Silveira
Published: July 2024

O objetivo central desta pesquisa foi dedicado a analisar as questões que envolvem o déficit habitacional, o direito à moradia e as políticas públicas de habitação no Brasil. Para tal, utilizou-se das metodologias de revisão bibliográfica e análise documental para fundamentar a pesquisa com resultados extraídos de estudos científicos, livros, legislações e dados estatísticos. Trata-se de uma pesquisa com abordagem qualitativa, de natureza básica, com objetivos descritivos e procedimento bibliográfico. Os resultados encontrados evidenciam um grave déficit habitacional no país, o que vai de encontro com o direito fundamental de acesso à moradia, vulnerabilizando milhares de brasileiros, retirando-lhes a dignidade. Reconhecendo o dever incutido ao Estado, os resultados demonstraram que as atuais políticas públicas de habitação não têm sido eficazes na reversão do déficit de moradia, principalmente nos últimos anos, com o enfraquecimento destas medidas, sendo preciso uma maior intensificação do alcance delas, o que pode também ser feito por meio de construções habitacionais sociais, abertura de margem facilitada ao financiamento, regularização fundiária, agilidade em processos de reconhecimento de usucapião e outras possibilidades adjacentes. Na conclusão, dá-se ênfase para a necessidade de inclinação do novo governo em prol do fortalecimento das políticas habitacionais no país.
Exploring the microbial community and biotechnological potential of the sponge Xestospongia sp. from an anchialine cave in the Yucatán Peninsula
Authors: Suárez-Moo Pablo , García-Martínez Ninette C , Márquez-Velázquez Norma A , Figueroa Mario , Allen Eric , Prieto-Davó Alejandra
Published: July 2024

Sponge-associated microorganisms are key influencers of nutrient biogeochemistry and important sources of bioactive natural products. This study provides the first insights into the taxonomic diversity of the microbial community associated with the sponge Xestospongia sp. from an anchialine cave in the coastal area of the underground river of the Yucatán Peninsula in Xcalak, Quintana Roo, Mexico, and the potential antimicrobial activity of its cultivable bacteria. High abundances of Sulfurospirillum and Desulfovibrio were detected with 16S rRNA amplicons, suggesting that the microbial community of Xestospongia sp. plays an important role in the geochemical sulfur cycle. Analysis with crude extracts of Nocardiopsis dasonvillei NCA-454 revealed antimicrobial activity against methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25913 (MSSA) and methicillin-​resistant ​S. aureus ATCC 43300 (MRSA). Studies of the microbiomes of sponges from the anchialine cave system in the Yucatán Peninsula can help elucidate the biogeochemical cycles of these poorly studied environments. Moreover, the microorganisms of these microbial communities represent an untapped source of secondary metabolites with biotechnological potential.
Ultrasound-assisted Upper Thoracic Epidural Anaesthesia in Awake Breast Surgeries: A Case Series
Authors: Yangtse S Narmatha , Kalyanasundaram K , Shanmugavelu G , Karthikeyan S
Published: July 2024

Carcinoma of the breast is a leading cause of hospitalisation in elderly women and the most common surgery performed in Surgical Oncology and General Surgery Departments. Traditionally, General Anaesthesia (GA) was used for patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy. However, GA is not an ideal choice for patients with restrictive pulmonary diseases, obesity, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), as it is associated with increased intraoperative and postoperative complications. Regional anaesthesia is a suitable alternative, as it has the advantages of reduced sympathetic stimulation, no airway manipulation, and avoids polypharmacy, thereby reducing the hospital stay. A series of 10 female patients were presented, who were scheduled for modified radical mastectomy surgery under ultrasound-assisted thoracic epidural anaesthesia, and the patients were awake and conscious throughout the surgery. The ultrasound-assisted upper thoracic epidural was performed with a 100% success rate, and the mean procedure time taken was 238.5 seconds (ultrasound examination plus needle placement). Out of the 10 patients, one patient had two needle punctures. The needle redirections were absent in three patients, two times in three patients, and one time in four patients. Except for one patient, the epidural was successfully placed on the first attempt. Patient comfort was assessed based on the Modified Comfort Scale, with Grade-1 in five patients, Grade-2 in four patients and Grade-3 in one patient. No complications such as dural puncture or bloody tap were reported. In patients scheduled for modified radical mastectomy, performing an upper thoracic epidural using a landmark-guided technique is challenging, as the thoracic spines are very acutely angulated (T3-T6). Therefore, the ultrasound-assisted thoracic epidural technique is a safe and effective bedside tool that can be used to identify the epidural space without any side effects for the patients.