bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Malmquist Productivity Change of Mutual Funds in Tanzania
Authors: Raphael Gwahula
Published: December 2023

This study utilized Data Envelopment Analysis to assess the efficiency of six mutual funds in Tanzania spanning from 2018 to 2022. The analysis explores efficiency changes, technical advancements, scale efficiency, and total factor productivity. The results revealed significant trends of Mutual funds, on average, demonstrate a 3 percent increase in total factor productivity, signifying enhanced output relative to inputs attributed to improved management practices, technology integration, and operational enhancements. Conversely, technical efficiency change experiences by 2.7 percent decline, indicating that certain funds struggle to optimize inputs, potentially due to shifts in management strategies, resource allocation, or market variations. Further differentiation between large and small mutual funds reveals that larger entities exhibit more favorable productivity changes. This disparity is ascribed to economies of scale, improved investment prospects, and reduced transaction costs for larger funds. The study underscores substantial implications for mutual fund managers and the industry. Positive improvements in efficiency change, scale efficiency change, and total factor productivity indicated an overall positive trend in the mutual fund industry. Emphasizing economies of scale can enhance efficiency and overall outcomes, urging regulatory bodies to provide guidance on achieving economies of scale and fostering better practices. This research offers valuable insights into the mutual fund landscape, emphasizing the critical importance of adapting to evolving market dynamics and incorporating technology to maximize efficiency and success.
Role of Servant Leadership Conglomerate Conflict Behaviour on Team Performance, Conflict Resolution Efficacy, and Turnover Intentionin Tanzania’s Higher Learning Institutions
Authors: Malingumu Winifrida Saimon
Published: December 2023

This paper explores the intricate relationship between servant leadership, conflict management behaviour, and organizational outcomes in the context of Tanzania's higher learning institutions. Through a longitudinal study involving 800 respondents from four public universities, the research investigates the interplay between servant leadership and conflict management styles, specifically focusing on integrating and compromising behaviors. The study employed a comprehensive methodology, utilizing questionnaires distributed over two waves with a one-year time lag. The findings revealed a positive correlation between servant leadership and integrating conflict management styles, specifically avoiding and accommodating. However, the anticipated correlation between integrating and compromising conflict behaviours in servant leadership is not confirmed. The study further examined the prevalence of cooperative conflict management patterns among Tanzanian university leaders, highlighting a combination of problem-solving and compromising strategies. A significant aspect of the research involved cluster analysis, which revealed distinct conflict behaviour patterns in Tanzanian universities. The result showed a preference for compromising and low-integrating (co-operative) patterns, as well as high-integrating and low-compromising (competitive) patterns. Notably, these patterns were not mutually exclusive, indicating a nuanced approach to conflict management. In the second part of the study, the paper delved into the impact of servant leadership's cooperative behaviour on team performance, conflict resolution efficacy, and turnover intention. The results affirmed the positive relationship between integrating and compromising conflict management styles and team performance while forcing behaviour showed a negative correlation. Moreover, the study identified a negative relationship between accommodating and forcing conflict management styles and turnover intention. The paper concluded that servant leaders in Tanzanian universities adeptly combined different conflict management styles, mitigating the adverse effects of conflicts on team performance and turnover intention. Even though avoiding and accommodating conflict behaviours were used together, problem-solving and compromising strategies were used a lot. This showed that servant leadership was used in a more complex way in Tanzanian higher education. The study contributed valuable insights into the dynamics of servant leadership, conflict management, and organizational outcomes, emphasizing the need for a contextual understanding of leadership behaviours and their cultural implications.
Structural Equation Modeling 1: Foundations & Programs
Authors: Grimm Kevin
Published: December 2023

'Structural Equation Modeling I: Foundations & Programs' is an on-demand workshop led by professor Kevin Grimm, providing a comprehensive review of covariance analysis, regression, covariance expectations, path diagrams, SEM notation, and SEM programs. Participants will gain a solid understanding of SEM and be prepared to specify, estimate, and interpret SEMs. An official Instats certificate of completion and 1 ECTS Equivalent point are provided at the conclusion of the seminar
Introduction to MAXQDA (Free 1-hour Seminar)
Authors: Silver Christina
Published: December 2023

Discover the fundamentals of MAXQDA in this concise one-hour workshop designed for beginners, including researchers, students, and professionals seeking an introduction to this widely-used qualitative analysis software. Participants will learn to navigate the MAXQDA interface, manage data, and conduct basic analyses and do basic visualizations. An official Instats certificate of completion is provided at the conclusion of the seminar.
Path Analysis with Moderated Mediation in Mplus
Authors: Liu Yihao
Published: December 2023

本研讨班主要介绍了Mplus建模框架，探讨交互(调节)效应、间接(中介)效应、条件间接(有调节的中介)效应，以及基于传统估计和贝叶斯估计的工具变量法。并探究采用自助抽样法（Bootstrapping）和plotting（绘图）进行检验假设和结果显示。研讨班结束时将提供正式的结业证书，并为欧洲博士生提供2个ECTS学分。
Methodological and Other Search Filters for Evidence Synthesis
Authors: Glanville Julie , Lefebvre Carol
Published: December 2023

This workshop provides an overview of methodological and other search filters, in particular in the context of evidence synthesis. Participants will learn how to find, appraise and use these filters and gain an understanding of how and why filters are used by others. An official Instats certificate of completion and 1 ECTS Equivalent point are provided at the conclusion of the seminar.
Harnessing ATLAS.ti for Qualitative and Mixed-Methods Analysis
Authors: Silver Christina
Published: December 2023

This seminar introduces you to harnessing ATLAS.ti to accomplish qualitative and mixed-methods analysis. The seminar follows the principles of ensuring analytic strategies drive the use of software tools as described in the CAQDAS pedagogy, the Five-Level QDA method, providing both theoretical understandings of the role of ATLAS.ti in the analysis process, and practical experience with operating the software to accomplish a variety of analytic tasks. You will be guided through the typical phases of an analysis and how they can be facilitated through the creative and systematic use of ATLAS.ti. An official Instats certificate of completion and 2 ECTS Equivalent points are provided at the conclusion of the seminar.
Advanced Non-Linear Regression Modelling
Authors: Marchese Malvina
Published: December 2023

This two-day seminar offers an in-depth introduction to non-linear regression models for cross sectional data, covering binary, multinomial, ordinal, censored, count, and the very popular quantile regression models. You will learn everything you need to know in order to understand and apply these methods in your own research. An official Instats certificate of completion is provided at the conclusion of the seminar. For European PhD students, the seminar offers 2 ECTS Equivalent point
Harnessing Dedoose for Qualitative and Mixed-Methods Analysis
Authors: Silver Christina
Published: December 2023

This seminar, 'Harnessing Dedoose for Qualitative and Mixed-Methods Data Analysis', is a one-day workshop aimed at equipping researchers with the skills to effectively use Dedoose in their research. Led by Christina Silver, an expert in the field, the workshop covers a range of topics including preparing and importing data, coding strategies, data visualization, and troubleshooting common issues in Dedoose. The seminar, which will be taught via Zoom, is a valuable opportunity for researchers to enhance their qualitative and mixed-methods data analysis skills, with all materials available online for 30 days after the seminar begins. An official Instats certificate of completion and 1 ECTS Equivalent point is provided at the conclusion of the seminar.
Measure Development and Psychometrics
Authors: Landis Ronald
Published: December 2023

This seminar is designed to provide a strong foundation in the process of developing measures for research or use in practice. The seminar will cover all key aspects of measurement development and validation including construct definition, item writing, administration, item analysis, estimating reliability, and principles of validation. An official Instats certificate of completion is provided at the conclusion of the seminar. The seminar offers 2 ECTS Equivalent points for European PhD students.
Mixed Methods Research
Authors: Watkins Daphne C.
Published: December 2023

This seminar will provide depth and breadth on developing well-refined and theoretically driven mixed methods studies. It also teaches participants how to use appropriate methods and instruments during mixed methods data collection, integration, and analysis. The content will be enhanced by an overview of both qualitative and quantitative methods, separately, then together, to examine how the strengths of one outweigh the weakness of the other. An official Instats certificate of completion is provided at the conclusion of the seminar. The seminar offers 2 ECTS Equivalent points for European Ph.D. students.
Introduction to Configurational Comparative Methods
Authors: Thiem Alrik
Published: December 2023

The one-day workshop[b] [/b]provides a comprehensive overview of the current landscape of all three modern Configurational Comparative Methods (CCMs): Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA), Coincidence Analysis (CNA) and Combinational Regularity Analysis (CORA). The workshop will enhance participants' understanding of the commonalities and differences between these three CCMs and equip them with the knowledge to make an informed decision on which method to employ for their research, and the basic skills required to apply QCA, CNA and CORA. An official Instats certificate of completion and 1 ECTS Equivalent point are provided at the seminar's conclusion.
Using ChatGPT for Advanced Data Analysis
Authors: Gruber Peter H.
Published: December 2023

This 2-day workshop teaches researchers, from PhD students to professors, how to use ChatGPT and its Advanced Data Analytics tool for statistical analysis without writing a line of code or even knowing how to use a statistics program. The seminar covers a range of topics from data preparation and descriptive statistics to regression analysis, advanced statistical tests and visualisation. Special emphasis is placed on understanding the workings and limits of AI models such as ChatGPT and reflecting on its implications for data analysis.
Analisis Komparatif Tentang Kriteria Kepala Negara Menurut Imam Al-Mawardi dan Imam Al-Ghazali
Authors: Nurdin Safriadi , Marzuki Marzuki
Published: December 2023

Negara Indonesia mengatur syarat-syarat calon seorang Presiden dan Wakil Presiden dalam Undang-Undang No. 7 Tahun 2017 Pasal 169. Undang-undang ini menarik untuk dianalisa dari sisi apakah sudah sesuai dengan persyaratan menurut pandangan Imam Mawardi dalam karyanya al-Ahkam as-Sulthaniyah dan Imam al-Ghazali dalam karya beliau al-Tibru al-Masbuk Fi Nashihati al-Muluk, kedua tokoh tersebut menetapkan syarat-syarat yang wajib dimiliki oleh seorang kepala negara. Jenis penelitian ini adalah kajian pustaka (library research) dengan pendekatan deskriptif kualitatif. Studi ini juga menggunakan pendekatan deskriptif kualitatif. Hasil penelitian menyimpulkan bahwa: pertama, Kriteria kepala negara menurut Imam al-Mawardi ada tujuh: (1) adil, (2) memiliki pengetahuan, (3) sehat panca inderanya, (4) sehat anggota badan, (5) mempunyai visi dan misi yang jelas, (6) memiliki keberanian dan kekuatan, (7) keturunan Quraisy. Sedangkan kriteria kepala negara menurut Imam al-Ghazali ada sepuluh yang diringkas menjadi tujuh yaitu: (1) Adil, (2) memiliki ilmu, (3) memiliki agama dan akhlak yang baik, (4) sehat (5) amanah, (6) suka nasehat ulama, (7) sederhana dan dekat dengan rakyat. Kedua, Relevansi pemikiran Imam al-Mawardi dan al-Ghazali terhadap syarat kepemimpinan di Indonesia dapat diaktualisasikan dan diterapkan dalam hukum positif yang ada di Indonesia, misalnya dalam syarat calon presiden dan wakil presiden dan syarat calon kepala daerah. Selain itu, pemikiran Imam al-Mawardi dan al-Ghazali tentang kepemimpinan yang ideal dapat dijadikan pedoman bagi pemimpin di Indonesia untuk diterapkan dan dijalankan dalam agenda memimpin.
Reposisi Hukuman Mati Dalam Perspektif Hukum Pidana Islam Dan Hukum Pidana Positif
Authors: Usammah Usammah
Published: December 2023

Diskursus yang belum selesai dan belum ada titik temu mengenai penerapan dan penetapan hukuman mati. Hukuman mati merupakan pidana yang paling keras dalam sistem pemidanaan. Sungguhpun demikian, hukuman mati paling banyak dimuat dalam hukum pidana di banyak negara dengan cara eksekusi dengan berbagai bentuk mulai dari di pancung, digantung, disetrum listrik, disuntik hingga di tembak mati. Di Indonesia pada masa lalu pernah dipraktikkan hukuman mati dengan cara digantung dan dipancung. Namun berdasarkan Undang-undang No. 2 Pnps Tahun 1964 diatur tatacara pelaksanaan hukuman mati, sejak ada penetapan dari kejaksaan tinggi sampai pelaksanaan di tempat yang tersembunyi dari kalangan masyarakat luas. Pro dan kontra atas hukuman mati bukan hanya sekarang terjadi. Namun telah ada sejak pertama kali ketentuan tentang pidana dimasukkan dalam KUHP Hindia Belanda, bahkan tetap dipertahankan sampai hari ini. Beberapa alasan dipertahankannya bahwa ada keadaan-keadaan khusus yang terjadi sehingga diperlukan hukuman yang dapat memberikan sifat jera yang luar biasa bagi pelaku kejahatan. Hal tersebut sejalan dengan tugas sistem peradilan pidana yang diantaranya adalah: (i) untuk mencegah masyarakat menjadi korban kejahatan, (ii) menyelesaikan kasus kejahatan yang terjadi sehingga masyarakat puas bahwa keadilan telah ditegakkan dan yang bersalah dipidana, dan (iii) mengusahakan agar mereka yang pernah melakukan kejahatan tidak mengulangi lagi. Oleh karena itu, hukuman mati masih diperlukan untuk menakut-nakuti para penjahat. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan hukum normatif dengan sifat penelitiannya adalah deskriptf dan bentuk penelitian adalah preskriptif, dengan sumber datanya adalah bahan hukum sekunder. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Kebutuhan akan adanya hukuman mati secara normatif, terasa lebih diperlukan lagi dalam situasi ketika dewasa ini pelaksanaan pidana penjara tidak dapat secara efektif mampu menekan angka kejahatan. Penjara kadangkala tak lebih dianggap sebagai "sekolah tinggi kejahatan". Tidak sepenuhnya dapat dijadikan alasan perspektif HAM untuk dijadikan sebagai alasan mengeliminir pidana mati. Betul jika menghilangkan nyawa orang lain adalah pelanggaran atas prinsip dasar HAM yang harus dijunjung tinggi oleh siapapun. Tetapi sekedar mengingatkan prinsip dasar HAM juga mengatur bahwa tidak seorangpun boleh ditangkap, ditahan atau dibatasai kebebasannya, dan tidak seorangpun dapat dihukum dengan suatu peraturan yang berlaku surut serta masih banyak hak-hak dasar lain yang harus dijamin, dilindungi dan ditegakkan oleh Negara
ATTITUDE OF STUDENTS TOWARDS LEARNING AFTER COVID-19 LOCKDOWN
Authors: Muhammad Afzal  , Sadia Munawar2
Published: December 2023

The main objective of this study was to explore the attitude of students towards learning after covid-19 lockdown. For this purpose the research reviewed the literature detail study of related books and different articles. It was observed in detail about the mental health attitude of students, virtual learning and practical skills after covid-19 lockdown. A survey method was adopted to collect information from the respondents. On the basis of objectives, these research questions were also formed like (1) what factors contributed to pupils' mental health and attitude toward learning after the COVID-19 lockdown? (2)What impact does virtual learning have on students after the COVID-19 lockdown? (3)What practical skills are students losing, and how are they feeling after the COVID-19 lockdown?

                The population in this study were students in higher education of all public and private universities in Sahiwal division. A sample consisting of 415 students from both public and private universities was chosen. The researcher used the convenience sampling method to choose the sample. After going over the literature review, the researcher made a questionnaire, the questionnaire consisted of 22 questions with demography covering the student’s attitudes towards mental health, virtual learning and practical skills after covid-19 lockdown. Questionnaire’s validity and reliability was checked through getting experts’ opinions and conducting pilot testing. Reliability occurred as (α=.87) which confirmed that the tool is reliable and suitable for data collection from a large sample. After the feedback from the respondents the drawbacks of the questionnaire was observed and modified .For reliability analysis Cranach’s alpha coefficient was computed through SPSS version 16 which was found 0.87 pointed towards the tool was trust worthy for the data assembling .Statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 16 and MS Excel 2007 were used for data analysis . Later on, the data were coded and these codes were entered into SPSS for applying relevant tests related to descriptive as well as inferential statistics. Finally to compare students' opinions according to their gender, location, discipline, institution, age, and qualification in order to determine any differences. To analyse the data, a one-way ANOVA and an independent sample t-test were used.
EFFECTS OF HELICOPTER PARENTING ON CHILDRENS' PSYCHO-SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Quratulain  , Sadia Munawar
Published: December 2023

This study looked at the relationships between over parenting and growing outcomes (childhood psychosocial development) on a sample of 347 students of university of Okara students. The adolescent's gender, family intactness, and parent-child conflict's moderating impacts on these connections were also looked at. According to the findings, both father and mother over parenting were associated with young Chinese adolescents' positive developmental outcomes and egocentrism. In addition, the relationships between maternal over parenting and egocentrism and constructive youth development were mitigated by father-child conflict. Egocentrism increases at increasing degrees of father-child conflict and when maternal over parenting was more severe, favorable kid development rose. Additionally discovered to have controlling things were the adolescent's gender and family intactness. The findings shed light on how familial circumstances affect the link between excessive parenting and teenager.  This study is a pioneer in evaluating the effects of helicopter parenting on teenagers because there are few comparable studies employing adolescent samples.
Prevalence of Exercise Related Amenorrhea in Females
Authors: Hirra Hafiza Natasha , Chaudhary Zubia Qayyum , Nazir Sidra , Raza Ali , Butt Maryam Asghar
Published: December 2023

Background: Amenorrhea in physically active women is a significant health concern, often associated with intensive exercise and dietary patterns. Understanding its prevalence and influencing factors is essential for devising effective health interventions and promoting women's health in sports.
Objective: The study aimed to explore the prevalence of amenorrhea among women regularly engaged in sports or gym activities and to identify key factors affecting menstrual health in this demographic.
Methods: This cross-sectional survey, spanning six months, included 71 female athletes aged 13-37 from two fitness centers in Lahore. The research employed non-probability convenient sampling. Data collection was achieved using the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire (LEAF-Q) and the Female Athlete Screening Tool (FAST). Statistical analyses were conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics 20.
Results: The participants' mean age was 28.35 ± 5.02 years, with an average BMI of 27.90 ± 3.6. Among them, 18.3% had a normal BMI, 52.1% were underweight, and 29.6% were obese. LEAF-Q results indicated that 70% of participants experienced moderate menstrual disturbances, while 20% had slight disturbances without a clinical diagnosis of amenorrhea. The overall prevalence of amenorrhea was 1.41%. Influential factors included BMI, education, awareness, and guidance from fitness professionals.
Conclusion: Contrary to initial expectations of a higher prevalence, the study discovered a relatively low occurrence of amenorrhea (1.41%) among active women. This underlines the importance of targeted educational and support interventions in fitness settings to manage menstrual health. Future research should further examine the interplay between exercise, diet, and menstrual health to improve care for female athletes.
Correlation of Skin Folds Measurements and Selective Motor Control of Lower Extremity in Children with Diplegic Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Shameen Amina , Tariq Mubashra , Azam Aliena , Ahmad Asad , Qadri Muhammad Kashif , Talib Nimrah
Published: December 2023

Background: Cerebral palsy (CP) is a significant neurological disorder affecting movement and coordination. Spastic diplegic CP, a common subtype, presents unique challenges in motor control and balance. Understanding the interplay between selective motor control, body composition, and motor functions is crucial for effective therapeutic approaches.
Objective: The study aimed to explore the correlations between selective motor control, skinfold measurements, and their impact on balance and gross motor function in children with spastic diplegic CP.
Methods: Employing a cross-sectional survey design, this study involved 31 children with spastic diplegic CP. Selective motor control was assessed using the SCALE tool, while skinfold measurements were taken at the iliac crest, mid-thigh, and mid-calf. The Pediatric Balance Scale and GMFM-66 were used for evaluating balance and gross motor function, respectively. Statistical analysis involved Pearson Correlation and chi-square tests.
Results: Significant positive correlations were found between balance and selective motor control of the right limb (Pearson Correlation .738, p<.001) and left limb (Pearson Correlation .621, p<.001). Gender-based differences in selective motor control were non-significant. Skinfold measurements varied, with the mid-thigh region showing the maximum fat accumulation, but they demonstrated no significant correlation with balance (Pearson Correlation range -.043 to .191, p>.05) or gross motor function (Pearson Correlation range -.366 to .143, p>.05). The correlation between selective motor control and gross motor function was also non-significant (Pearson Correlation range -.162 to .046, p>.05).
Conclusion: This study underscores the significance of balance and motor control in managing spastic diplegic CP. The absence of a significant correlation between skinfold measurements and motor functions suggests that physical body composition may not directly influence motor abilities in CP. These findings call for further research, potentially with a more diverse sample, to develop nuanced, effective therapies for CP.
Role of Conservative Treatment and Outcome of Traumatic CSF Rhinorrhea
Authors: Shah Amjad Ali , Bokhari Iram , Akbar Rabail , Ahmed Tanweer , Ahmed Faizyab , Ahmed Anas
Published: December 2023

Background: Traumatic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea, a rare but serious consequence of head injuries, poses significant challenges in diagnosis and management. Understanding the efficacy of treatment modalities is crucial to improve patient outcomes and reduce complications.
Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of conservative versus surgical treatment in managing traumatic CSF rhinorrhea and to identify factors influencing treatment outcomes.
Methods: A descriptive case series was conducted at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Center, Karachi, from September 2022 to February 2023. Thirty patients with traumatic CSF rhinorrhea, aged 18-60 years, were included. Data on patient demographics, site of CSF leakage, management approach, and recovery were collected. Diagnostic methods involved glucose oxidase test strips and imaging techniques. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 23.
Results: Of the patients, 73.3% were male, and 26.7% were female. CSF leakage sites included the sphenoid sinus (36.7%), frontal sinus (33.3%), ethmoidal sinus (20.0%), and cribriform plate (10.0%). Conservative treatment controlled 80% of CSF rhinorrhea cases within 48 hours. Surgical intervention was necessary in 20% of cases, primarily for persistent leaks. The mean age of patients was 40.67±10.54 years.
Conclusion: The study indicates that conservative management is effective in the majority of traumatic CSF rhinorrhea cases. However, surgical intervention remains crucial for cases unresponsive to initial treatment. These findings highlight the need for individualized treatment plans and suggest further research into optimizing management strategies for traumatic CSF rhinorrhea.
Diet-Related Anemias: A Comprehensive Review on Types, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Authors: Ali Farman , Hamza Muhammad , Chaudhary Tooba , Fatima Fajar , Zubair Ahsan
Published: December 2023

Background: Anemia, a prevalent blood disorder characterized by reduced red blood cells or hemoglobin, has diverse etiologies related to nutritional deficiencies, notably iron, vitamin B12, and B9. Its impact on quality of life is especially significant in elderly individuals and those with chronic conditions.
Objective: This systematic review aims to collate and synthesize the current literature on nutrient-related anemias, focusing on types, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment.
Methods: A thorough search was conducted in databases including Google Scholar, PubMed, and Research Gate using keywords such as "anemia," "types," "pathophysiology," "diagnosis," and "treatment." The review encompasses studies that detail the prevalence, causes, symptoms, risk factors, diagnostic methods, and treatment options for anemias related to iron, vitamin B12, and B9 deficiencies.
Results: The review found that anemia affects approximately 24.8% of the global population, with higher prevalence rates in vulnerable groups such as infants, children, and pregnant women. Iron deficiency anemia, the primary form globally, is prevalent in various populations due to factors like poverty, malnutrition, and gastrointestinal conditions. Diagnostic approaches include both traditional laboratory tests and newer metabolite tests like homocysteine and methylmalonic acid. Treatment strategies vary based on the type of deficiency and include oral and intramuscular supplements, with intravenous iron for malabsorption cases and folic acid for folate deficiency.
Conclusion: Early detection and effective treatment of diet-related anemias are crucial to prevent serious complications and mitigate their impact on quality of life. The review highlights the importance of tailored treatment approaches, including dietary changes, supplements, and medications, to address the specific needs of individuals with different types of anemia.
Stone Free Success Rate by Using Modified Guy’s Scoring System in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy
Authors: Khan Saeed Ahmed , Ali Shahzad , Valecha Naresh Kumar , Mujeeb Abdul , Ali Khizer , Shah Afaque Hyder
Published: December 2023

Background: Renal stone disease (RSD) is a prevalent condition globally, with significant impacts on patient health and healthcare systems. The complexity of RSD management, particularly in achieving high stone-free rates (SFR) with minimal complications, necessitates ongoing research into effective treatment modalities. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) has emerged as a standard treatment, but predicting its success pre-operatively remains a challenge.
Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the Modified Guy’s Stone Score (M-GSS) in predicting the SFR in patients undergoing PCNL, and to analyze the relationship between various patient and stone characteristics and the success of the procedure.
Methods: This descriptive case series study involved 161 patients undergoing PCNL at a tertiary care center. Data on patient demographics, stone characteristics, and operative details were collected. Stones were classified using the M-GSS, and PCNL outcomes were assessed in terms of SFR. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 23.0, with a focus on the correlation between M-GSS grades and SFR.
Results: The overall SFR was 59.6%. The majority of patients (38.5%) were classified as M-GSS grade 1. The mean stone size was 2.74 ± 1.6 cm, and the mean operative time was 73.4 ± 14.6 minutes. There was no significant difference in SFR across different M-GSS grades (p=0.236). Stone size was the only factor significantly affecting the SFR (p=0.0001).
Conclusion: The study indicates that while M-GSS is a useful tool for preoperative assessment in PCNL, stone size remains a crucial determinant of SFR. The findings suggest the need for further research, particularly larger, multi-center randomized studies, to validate these results and refine preoperative patient counseling and outcome prediction strategies in PCNL.
Pandemic and Lockdown: Issues and Challenges – A study on sudden transformation of the Indian education system
Authors: Nandan Uma Devi
Published: December 2023

‘Expect the unexpected’, is the new norm in today’s world. The sudden shift to the new normal is a challenge combined with a strong will, a fighting spirit, and uneasy adjustments. Like any other stream of life, education also suffered a sudden paradigm shift. The happy interaction and bright looks of the students and teachers are now a dream. The new normal shifted to students and teachers adopting ICT tools for continuing their teaching-learning process. Albeit the difficulty learning in ICT mode is already introduced to the students of the digital era as part of blended learning. However, the sudden shift to online learning posed challenges of connectivity, interaction, and the personal touch of the conventional classroom interaction between teachers and students, and student-to-student interaction. As the days passed by with no immediate cure for the pandemic, in spite of the vaccination drive: the education sector took a strong beating. Over 285 million young minds have faced the serious issue of a break in their education, the structure of learning and assessment has undergone a sudden shift from the traditional chalk-talk method. The change in teaching strategies has affected the students of all sections of society. Only students with a good financial background and urban background have adapted to the change with ease. The rest of the students, that is the urban poor and the rural students have seriously missed classes. It has directly affected the student’s future and the economic status of our country. This paper tried to study and analyze the issues and problems faced by students from various backgrounds and how they have tried to cope up with the challenge of achieving normalcy.
Tinjauan Hukum Perjanjian Pengikatan Jual Beli (PPJB) Di Bawah Tangan Sebagai Jaminan Kepemilikan Rumah (Studi Penelitian Pada PT. Imbara Permai Sejahtera)
Authors: Haedar Djidar  , Muhammad Salam Amrullah
Published: December 2023

Peneltian ini fokus membahas tentang kekuatan hukum perjanjian pengikatan jual beli di bawah tangan sebagai jaminan kepemilikan rumah,  hasil penelitian dapat disimpulkan: 1. Perjanjian Pengikatan Jual Beli (PPJB) dibawah tangan merupakan bentuk perjanjian antara dua pihak yang sepakat untuk mengikatkan dirinya, yang dibuat secara bersama-sama. Meskipun PPJB dibawah tangan itu dapat dibuat secara bebas oleh para pihak yang ingin membuat suatu perjanjian, akan tetapi tidak boleh melanggar dari ketentuan Pasal 1320 KUHPerdata. 2.Terjadinya perbedaan penafsiran antara pengembang dan user. Format yang tidak baku sehingga mengalami kesusulitan menentukan atau menggunakan bahasa yang jelas sehingga sering muncul bahasa yang multi tafsir. Sangat rentan terjadinya kerugian apabila salah satu pihak tidak cakap.Kelemahan pembuktian PPJB dibawah tangan karena mudah disangkal oleh salah satu pihak. Perbedaan-perbedaan kepentingan dapat membuat cela bagi timbulnya itikad buruk para pihak dalam pelaksanaannya.
Analisis Hukum Terhadap Larangan Minuman Beralkohol
Authors: Wardani Dian Eka Kusuma , Hidayat Muhammad Taufik
Published: December 2023

Minuman beralkohol selain bertentangan dengan norma agama dan jiwa bangsa Indonesia yang religious, juga telah terbukti menelan korban jiwa yang jumlahnya tidak sedikit. Jenis penelitian ini adalah yuridis normatif Adapun hasil penelitian ini adalah Untuk mengantisipasi dan atau menanggulangi penyalahgunaan peredaran minuman beralkohol Pemerintah Daerah wajib mengadakan Penertiban secara terprogram dan berkelanjutan yakni membentuk tim terpadu yang terdiri atas unsur : a. POLRI; b. TNI; c. Polisi Pamong Praja; d. Dinas Kesehatan; e. Dinas Koperasi Perindustrian dan Perdagangan; f. Bagian Hukum; g. Organisasi Keagamaan dan Organisasi Masyarakat; dan h. Unsur lain yang dianggap perlu. Tim dikordinasikan oleh Organisasi Perangkat Daerah yang bertanggung jawab dalam penegakan Peraturan Daerah.Pemerintah Daerah wajib melakukan pembinaan dan pengawasan dalam rangka penanggulangan bahaya mengkonsumsi minuman beralkohol yang mengandung unsur memabukkan dalam hal ini Dinas Kesehatan ditunjuk dan bertanggung jawab terhadap pembinaan dan pengawasan tersebut. Pembinaan dan pengawasan dilakukan dalam bentuk antara lain : a. Penyuluhan mengenai bahaya mengkonsumsi minuman yang beralkohol; b. Pembinaan dan pengawasan terhadap Pengelola Hotel, Restoran, Pub dan Café yang memperoleh izin serta kawasan khusus; dan c. Rehabilitasi terhadap korban pecandu. Pembinaan dan pengawasan, oleh Dinas Kesehatan dapat membentuk tim pembinaan yang ditetapkan dengan Keputusan Bupati. Pembinaan dan pengawasan melibatkan unsur-unsur terkait.
Analisis Normatif Kewenangan Peninjauan Kembali Oleh Kejaksaan
Authors: Saputra Imran Eka , Irwan Muhammad , Rahman Ali
Published: December 2023

Mahkamah Konstitusi melakukan Uji Materil Pasal 263 ayat (1) KUHAP dengan memutuskan dalam putusan No. 33/PUU-XIV/2016 dengan menyatakan mengabulkan permohonan Pemohon bahwa Pasal 263 ayat (1) KUHAP` bertentangan dengan UUD 1945 secara bersyarat, yaitu sepanjang dimaknai lain selain yang secara eksplisit tersurat dalam norma a quo; Namun dalam Dalam Undang-Undang Republik Indonesia Nomor 11 Tahun 2021 tentang Perubahan Atas Undang-Undang Nomor 16 Tahun 2004 Tentang Kejaksaan Republik Indonesia (selanjutnya disingkat UU 11/2021) Pasal 30C huruf h menentukan Kejaksaan mengajukan peninjauan kembali. Putusan Mahkamah Konstitusi dituliskan dalam berita negara, sehingga putusan MK berkekuatan setara dengan UU. Oleh karena itu perumusan sebuah norma dalam perundang-undangan tidak dapat bertentangan dengan Putusan MK. Disisi lain putuan MK memiliki karakteristik final dan mengikat yang artinya sejak diputuskan di MK maka putusan MK tersebut menjadi undang-undang dan mengikat semua warga negara
On Atmosphere
Authors: Pelbart Peter
Published: December 2023

This paper traces the work of Tosquelles, Oury and Guattari in transforming psychiatric care by reshaping the "atmosphere" of asylums. Breaking down asylum walls and hierarchies, Tosquelles sought to liberate patient expression and agency. Oury built on this through the notion of "antennas" attuned to environmental subtleties often imperceptible to clinicians. For both, transforming institutional spaces was paramount. Guattari helped reveal how such environments could foster the emergence of new subjectivities. For all three, the sustained “atmosphere” was a central concern. Building on this work, I discuss my co-founding of the Ueinzz theatre group, which provides an artistic outlet for individuals experiencing psychological distress and fosters radical solidarity by empowering marginalized subjectivities. Such micropolitical interventions, I argue, are vital given the contemporary context of pervasive "normo-pathy" and pressures imposing psychic confinement.
Narrative Form and Forms of Truth
Authors: Byers Patrick , Jerez Melanie
Published: December 2023

Within the last decade, it has been commonly claimed that societies in the United States and other countries, have entered a ‘post-truth-era’, a time when deception and falsehood have flourished, and the value of factual truth is diminished. Paradoxically, at the same time (1) concerns with truth have become more prominent in popular discourse and in the priorities of institutions, and  (2) definitive empirical evidence of an unprecedented recent increase in false or misleading information is lacking. Therefore, how is it that the idea of post-truth earned such widespread acceptance? The possibility explored here is that the idea of a post-truth-era is symptomatic of a deepening commitment to increasingly compelling and divergent narrative truths (as opposed to factual truths). This process is related to the use of the internet and social media platforms and the opportunities they afford for individuals to co-construct their own narrative accounts of reality. While prevailing conceptions of a post-truth-era show some recognition of the challenges this divergence in realities poses—particularly for the geographical communities that most directly sustain infrastructure and institutions—because these conceptions are grounded in a correspondence view of truth and language, they are fundamentally unable to recognize and address the challenges at hand. The latter, we show, can only be adequately grasped and addressed by recognizing the role of the narrative form in the construction of reality.
Between Term and Trope
Authors: Eggen Nora Sunniva
Published: December 2023

The term koranskole has a prominent place in the public discourse on Islam and Muslim life in Norway. Despite being empirically imprecise, it is by far the most frequently used term in reference to non-formal Islamic religious education (IRE), but it is also used in other contexts with explicit or implicit referents, creating a polyvalent and at times contested concept. First coined by ethnographers studying Muslim societies, the term koranskole does not originate in Islamic educational traditions; however, it has been used both by researchers and practitioners, although today it occurs to a lesser extent among organizers of such educational enterprises than in public discourse. This article maps the use of the term koranskole in Norwegian public and scholarly discourses throughout the past century, preparing the ground for discussing the analytical vocabulary for research in this area.
Periantral fungal abscess after zygoma reduction: a case report
Authors: Kim Keun Hyung , Kim Hoon , Lim Soo Yeon , Koh In Chang
Published: December 2023

This case report describes our treatment of a persistent periantral abscess in a 35-year-old woman. The abscess developed following a zygoma-reduction surgery, during which a preexisting fungal ball had not been addressed. Our comprehensive treatment approach included functional endoscopic sinus surgery, fungal ball removal, abscess drainage, and debridement. Two weeks postoperatively, the patient’s symptoms had resolved. A 6-month postoperative follow-up revealed no signs of recurrence or complications, and the patient reported satisfactory functional and aesthetic results. This case underscores the importance of thorough preoperative evaluations and raises awareness about the potential risks of untreated asymptomatic pathologies, which can potentially progress and lead to further complications.
El aprendizaje de los periodos históricos con el método Puzle en la formación docente virtual
Authors: Irigoyen Albert , Pons-Altés Josep M. , Hernández-Pérez Marta , Cardona Ràmia Oriol
Published: December 2023

En este artículo presentamos un estudio que articula el aprendizaje de los periodos históricos con el aprendizaje cooperativo a través del método Puzle en la formación de docentes. La virtualización de las clases universitarias por la pandemia de la covid-19 nos permite indagar si el Puzle es una buena opción para el aprendizaje cooperativo virtual de los periodos históricos. Esta investigación es de tipo estructural y se ha desarrollado en cuatro fases: análisis de la literatura, adaptación del método y creación de las fases de aprendizaje de los periodos históricos, aplicación y recogida de datos, y análisis cuantitativo y cualitativo de las percepciones del alumnado (n=57) con el programa Atlas.ti y con la matriz DAFO para mostrar Debilidades, Amenazas, Fortalezas y Oportunidades del Puzle virtual. Los resultados apuntan que es un método cooperativo virtual útil para el aprendizaje de los periodos históricos, y un instrumento para la inclusión, la motivación y la responsabilidad individual. También que es un método complejo donde aparecen tres tipologías diferentes de aprendizaje grupal, diferenciando la cooperación de la colaboración.
Desarrollo del pensamiento científico en la etapa 0-3 años: una revisión sistemática
Authors: Vázquez Carrasco Loli , Marbà Tallada Anna , Pedreira Álvarez Montserrat
Published: December 2023

Diversos estudios demuestran la importancia de la enseñanza de la ciencia en la primera infancia y es por eso por lo que el presente estudio analiza las investigaciones publicadas hasta el momento sobre el desarrollo del pensamiento científico en la primera infancia (0-3 años) a partir de una revisión sistemática de las bases de datos SCOPUS y ERIC. Se trata de un estudio con una muestra de 398 artículos potenciales de los que se han acabado seleccionando 124. El resultado de la revisión sistemática también muestra la escasez de investigaciones sobre la temática en la franja de edad de 0-3 años. Las conclusiones a las que se han llegado muestran la importancia de seguir investigando en el ámbito de estudio y la importancia de la alfabetización científica en las primeras edades.
Opportunities for Multimodal Transport Development to Promote a Sustainable Environment
Authors: Jarašūnienė Aldona , Lapėnas Domantas
Published: December 2023

The rapidly growing global production and trade increase the demand for transport and logistics, leading to the establishment of increasingly more new companies providing these services. This also results in a much larger number of vehicles, which is not always a positive thing. Excessive vehicle traffic leads to an increase in environmental pollution, noise and traffic accidents, which have a highly negative impact on society and, more specifically, on human health. The negative impact on the environment has been increasing, and therefore representatives of national politics, the transport and logistics sectors should be alarmed and take action to reduce the environmental pollution. The development of the transport system should be carefully planned and geared towards achieving green and sustainable transport. In order to create a sustainable freight transport network, certain alternatives that could help to stop or at least reduce the process of environmental pollution should be pursued. One of such alternatives is the use of multimodal transport, which involves several different modes of transport for transporting one freight. This both distributes and reduces the burden on the currently dominant road transport mode, which contributes significantly to environmental pollution and is not sufficiently sustainable.
Assessment of Socio-Economic Benefits from the Construction of Bypasses of Transport Infrastructure
Authors: Ćetković Jasmina , Ivanović Biljana , Vujadinović Radoje , Žarković Miloš , Grujić Marija
Published: December 2023

The aim of the study is to analyse the feasibility of the second phase of the construction of the Rožaje (Montenegro) bypass project. The objectives of the construction of this bypass are to eliminate or reduce existing problems by redirecting transit flows to the bypass. Based on the observed economic costs of construction and the expected economic benefits from the project in a 20-year period, by applying Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA), the indicators of the project economic feasibility were determined. As part of the socio-economic analysis of the project feasibility, the expected benefits for transport users (savings in travel time and savings in the vehicle exploitation costs), as well as external impacts (impacts on safety and impacts on the environment) were assessed. The analysis showed the dominant savings are in travel time and vehicle exploitation costs. The economic net present value (ENPV) of this project is positive and amounts to EUR 55 054 502, the economic internal rate of return (EIRR) is 26.88% (with a discount rate of 5%), while the benefit-cost ratio (B/CR) is 4.96. All scenarios developed within the Project Sensitivity Analysis have confirmed that this project has satisfactory economic justification.
The Applicability of Limiting Phase Angle Temperatures for Specifying Asphalt Binder Low Temperature Performance
Authors: Lill Kristjan , Kontson Karli , Aavik Andrus
Published: December 2023

The paper discusses the applicability of using limiting phase angle temperatures, measured in the Dynamic Shear Rheometer, for low temperature ranking of performance, in comparison with limiting low temperature grades in accordance with AASHTO TP 122-16 extended Bending Beam Rheometer method. During this study, also other low-temperature test methods were compared to each other. For this purpose, 13 asphalt binders were sourced from around North-Eastern Europe, twelve of which are currently used throughout Estonia as well as the neighbouring countries. The thirteenth was a high-quality Laguna Venezuela binder that is no longer commercially available in the region but was deemed suitable for comparison. Samples were tested to measure their needle penetration, Superpave Grades, Fraass breaking points, AASHTO TP 122-16 limiting low temperature grades and limiting 30° phase angle temperatures. Additionally, a correlation found in previous work was applied to the set of samples studied in this paper. Of the binders tested, the low temperature behaviour of the Venezuelan binder stands out with better performance. The analysis suggests that the twelve commercially available binders are from a similar source which was observed through their tendency to undergo thermo-reversible aging. The study shows that the phase angle approach provides a reasonable surrogate for the AASHTO TP 122-16 limiting low temperature grade. However, the latter should currently remain the preferred approach.