bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science and International Relations, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Central Punjab, Lahore, Punjab Pakistan.
Authors: Ali Ehsan , Khan Muhammad Saeed , Khalid Muhammad Awais
Published: September 2024

This research paper investigates the profound influence of the International Monetary Fund on the economy of Pakistan from 2013 to 2022. Pakistan has been engaged with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) since 1958. Over this period, Pakistan has entered multiple agreements with the IMF, shaping its economic policies significantly. This study employs a comprehensive analysis of IMF programs and their impact either negative or positive on Pakistan's economic landscape. By employing a case study approach, historical analysis, quantitative assessments, and qualitative perspectives, this paper aims to unveil the intricate dynamics between the IMF's directives and Pakistan's economy. It explores how IMF policies, often linked to loan agreements, have influenced Pakistan's autonomy in economic policymaking, impacted sectors like education and healthcare, and shaped the nation's fiscal policies. The research seeks to offer insights into the multifaceted relationship between international economic organizations, particularly the IMF, and the economy of Pakistan.
Impact of Climate Change on Rural Pakistan
Authors: Sadiq Muhammad Umar Zaryab , Chaudhry Abid Ghafoor
Published: September 2024

Climate change is a huge global issue. However, the severity of negative impacts is higher in the rural areas of developing countries like Pakistan. Thus, this research is carried out with the aim of assessing the impact of climate change on rural areas of Pakistan. The current study will establish a comprehensive assessment of present conditions and future projections with the help of secondary data extracted from various articles, research, and databases. Attention will, therefore, be on the review of the requirement for adaptive actions that shall minimize the negative impacts. The findings serve to motivate these communities to be strategic in adapting and building resilience to increasing problems caused as a result of climate change.
Pak Central Asia's Southern Trade Routes: Critical Comparison of New Central Asian Economic Outlets
Authors: Ali Madiha Wajid , Yousaf Zahid
Published: September 2024

The twentieth century is discernable by global events including wars and technological changes focused by the mutual desires of powerful countries as the colonial rule was over and world moved away from closed markets which led to a more connected global economy. In order to remove barriers of trade countries worked hard as a result many regions benefited. Conversely, Asia remained slightly quarantined from international trade. The study is focused on the potential of some countries of Central Asia to become significant players in the global trade market due to their rich oil and gas resources such as Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. Central Asia looks for support to engage in trade, including Pakistan. However, challenges like fear of Russian influence, Islamic concerns, and the dominance of the United States have created confusion in the region. Turkey, Iran, Russia, and Pakistan all have different approaches, which complicates the situation.
Clean Energy and Long Run Dynamics of Output, Labor and Capital Stock: Evidence from China
Authors: Shakeel Muhammad , Sharif Shahbaz , Rashid Muhammad
Published: September 2024

Clean energy has sparked the importance of a sustainable environment and economic production in China. The concerns of climate and global warming can be solved with the adoption of clean energy. This study investigates the potential long-run connection amid economic production, labor, and capital stock with clean energy employing data from the years 1990-2020 in China. The combination of long-run estimates with Granger causalit678y has been employed. The observed output indicates that there is a long-run connection among these variables in an equilibrium sense. Also, changes in clean energy are significant in explaining changes in economic production. The outputs of the causality test corroborate that clean energy is causing economic production. The estimated elasticity of clean energy with respect to production is statistically significant in the long run. The findings imply that the development of new energy technologies for clean energy should be incorporated into the energy mix to balance the supply-demand gap.
Learning Style Preferences of Undergraduate Female Students in Public Colleges
Authors: Ara Nighat , Sajjad Qammar , Ali Nusrat
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this quantitative study was to assess the learning styles and preferences of undergraduate students at female colleges. A sample of 252 female undergraduate students enrolled in B. Ed programs were selected as sample. An adapted questionnaire based on VARK theory was used comprising three factors (visual, auditory, and kinesthetic) of learning styles. The instrument consisted of 24 items based on 5-point Likert scale. Chronbach’s alpha reliability statistic was 0.85. The collected data was analyzed by using SPSS. The results revealed that visual learning style is a more prevalent learning style among female students. The results also revealed that there is no difference in students' learning styles and time spent on study. It is recommended that students have diverse learning preferences and styles. The teachers may design instructional activities and materials that accommodate various modalities such as visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning.
Post-Merger Political and Social Dynamics: Fata's Shifting Paradigm in Pakistan
Authors: Khan Adnan , Gill Qasim Shahzad , Mustafa Ghulam
Published: September 2024

This research analyzes the perceptions and experiences of individuals from the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) following its merger with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). The study employs a mixed approach, collecting primary data through random sampling from various districts of FATA, including students, teachers, social activists, politicians, and government servants. The analysis reveals a divided sentiment regarding the merger, with nearly half of the respondents expressing dissatisfaction. Major concerns include the lack of improvement in governance, ineffective law enforcement, and worsening security conditions. The traditional Jirga system is still preferred over the new judicial framework by a majority, highlighting cultural and practical considerations. Findings indicate that the merger has not achieved its desired outcomes, with the Deputy Commissioners operating similarly to the previous Political Agents, and the former Levies and Khasadars remaining ineffective as a police force. Policy recommendations emphasize the need for honoring merger-related promises and improving peace and security.
Blasphemy in the Electoral Politics of Pakistan
Authors: Zeeshan Azhar
Published: September 2024

This paper aims to contribute to the existing corpus of literature on the role of religion in Pakistan's politics by taking the issue of blasphemy as a central variable. The research examines how the issue of blasphemy is used in Pakistan's politics by the mainstream political parties across the political spectrum, from far-right to center-left, by analyzing the parties' slogans, manifestos, rhetoric, and mobilization tactics in the 2018 general elections. To make sense of why these parties are utilizing blasphemy as a political tool, the paper also employs a conceptual framework towards the end of the paper. By understanding how blasphemy is instrumentalized in the country’s politics, the paper seeks to provide a fresh perspective on the interplay between religion, and politics in Pakistan.
Socio-Political Underpinnings in Intizar Hussain's Basti: A Critical Discourse Analysis
Authors: Hassan Shamaila , Khan Muhammad Akbar , Qaiser Quratulain
Published: September 2024

The 1979 Urdu release of Intizar Hussain's book "Basti" was followed by an English translation. It was written against the backdrop of the 1971 political tension, as well as the 1947 events of the establishment of Pakistan and the division of India. The article looks at issues like identity, displacement, and the socio-political changes people went through at these raging times in history. Discourse is taken for analysis from the translated novel by Frances W. Pritchet with the same name, Basti. The research is qualitative in nature and the text is analyzed in the sociopolitical domain of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA). The study deals with the application of Fairclough’s version of the Dimensional model of CDA. Furthermore, it unearths notions like social, cultural, and political besides memory loss and despair in relation to the aforementioned text.
The New World Order: Geopolitical Shifts in the Post-Cold War Era
Authors: Khan Usman , Kanwal Javeria , Liaqat Bilal Bin
Published: September 2024

The end of the Cold War marked a pivotal moment in global history, widely seen as the commencement of the "New World Order." The new world order in the post-cold war witnesses the decrease in the powers of classical states and their inter-states matters for restoring international peace, and emerging of other threats like religious militancy, ethnic conflicts, unfair economic competition, north-south conflict, terrorism, etc. This research presents a comprehensive analysis of the challenges, dynamics and potential of the post-Cold War era. This research aims to explore the complexities of “New World Order” in post-Cold War era in international relations through an examination of global political, economic, and socio-cultural transformations, to analyze the geopolitical landscape by focusing on the increasing involvement of non-state players during the post-Cold War era in reshaping economies, society, and conflict dynamics. The study utilizes qualitative research approach to conduct this study.
Autonomy of Higher Education Sector in Post-18th Constitutional Amendment Era: Challenges and Prospects
Authors: Farukh Quaisar Mahmood , Rehman Hafiz Aziz-ur-
Published: September 2024

The current study tries to comprehend whether the devolution of power as envisaged by the 18th Amendment is reflected and incorporated in the existing Legislative Framework of Higher Education. Theoretically, the 18th amendment strengthened the federal structure where federating units are empowered to make their own decisions without external interference; however, practically Apex Courts are backing the HEC to have a strong hold on provincial commissions while enjoying the absolute authority in the name of cooperative Federalism. The study revolves around the changing role of the HEC at the Federal level and the newly emerging role of HECs at the provincial level. The study revolves around the role of Higher Courts in impacting and reshaping the existing regulatory framework. The conclusions showed that universities enjoy more substantive autonomy and less procedural autonomy; therefore, HECs have to respect other Provincial HECs as mandated by the Eighteenth Amendment while transferring powers pragmatically to provincial HECs.
Exploring Media Narratives: A Qualitative Study of the Hijab Ban Coverage in Indian News Channels
Authors: Mehdi Hassan , Khan Mohsin Hassan
Published: September 2024

Muskan Khan, a hijab-wearing Muslim student, was chased and intimidated by the majority of Hindu students of her college, but she refused to be cowed down raising the slogan Allah o Akbar. The incident gained international fame and she was given the title of hijab girl. Indian TV channels, The Republic World, Time Now, NDTV, and India Today, covered the incident. In this qualitative research, the researchers analyzed hijab coverage in current events and TV shows on the said TV channels. The findings revealed that the Indian Muslim minority was demonized in the media, and TV news programs in the country aired anti- hijab programming, equating the head covering with terrorism. The Indian news channel anchors and guests exaggerated, fabricated, and twisted the on-air content to create hatred against the hijab and Islam. They subtly showed their anti-Muslim political leanings in the content they produced and blamed Islam for the adversity.
Populist Politics in Pakistan: Case Study of Pakistan Tehreek-I- Insaf Regime
Authors: Nazish Irram , Mubarak Munazza , Malik Uzma
Published: September 2024

The advent of right-wing populist parties in Europe and America has given populist politics in South Asia more clout. There has been a lot of discussion among political analysts about how the rise of populist governments around the world is likely to undermine established democracies and eventually impede democratic advancement in developing countries. The research paper gives deep insights of populist regime of PTI and shedding light on frequent democratic decline in the country owing to this style of politics and also exploring that democracy has been inflicted by the populist politics is critical discourse of contemporary times and particularly in the context of Pakistan. The paper finds out that owing to its populist politics, the PTI government subverted the process of democratic development in the country, stifled the dissenting voices and curtailed the freedom of media.
Women's Political Participation in District Dir Lower: An Analysis of Local Government Election-2022
Authors: Zaman Umar , - Kausar , Zahid Muhammad Musaddique
Published: September 2024

Several things have influenced the political participation of females in the Local Government Elections 2022 in district Dir Lower, KPK, Pakistan. Female political participation was very poor as compared to men in the district. Although, after the introduction of the Elections Act, of 2017, the participation of females has been raised in elections the role of the ECP was still not effective despite the fact that various administrative and legislative powers were vested in it. As a consequence of this study, multifarious factors were uncovered due to which female political participation was very low including, meager resources, cultural issues, administrative factors, and absence of political consciousness, etc. To overcome the fundamental issues faced by females regarding political participation the results of the study urge for more advocacy and the making of policies at both national and provincial levels.
Framing of Political News in Pakistani Newspapers: Comparative Analysis of Vote of No Confidence Campaign Issue 2022
Authors: Shabbir Ayesha , Qamar Ayesha , Irtaza Sadaf
Published: September 2024

Pakistan has always gone through political instability since its inception.(Zahid, A, et al.,2021).The study investigated the role of leading Pakistani newspapers during the vote on the issue of no-confidence. Two newspapers, Dawn News(English) and The Daily Jang(Urdu) were selected for comparative framing analysis. Content analysis using the Categorization Scheme, with pre-established categories developed with the Framing theory as a basis, is employed. Five different frames determined by Semetko and Volkenburg(2000) are observed in the selected newspapers. The result of this study showed that there was a significant difference between the coverage of Dawn News and The Daily Jang. The conflict frame was dominant in The Daily Jang, whereas the responsibility frame was dominant in Dawn News' coverage. Dawn News presented a more neutral Slant than The Daily Jang. Future studies will be done with a larger sample of newspapers and qualitative interviews with editors to gain insight into political issues.
A New Sanctified British Era of Architecture and Supremacy at Rawalpindi, Punjab Pakistan
Authors: Fatima Kaniez , Durrani Mukhtar Ali , - Shakirullah
Published: September 2024

This article defines the ‘Church Architecture’ with its genera which was introduced by the British government to the Subcontinent. This architecture is a significant part of the cultural heritage and British Archaeology of Pakistan. ‘Church Architecture’ is still a center of attention for the general public and the Christian community in Rawalpindi, Punjab, Pakistan. These “churches” were not only religious buildings of the British era but have always been the political and religious epicenters of British authorities. When the British East India Company was expanding its trading activities all over the subcontinent before 1849, simultaneously, ‘Company’ was trying to achieve the political and religious agenda of the British authorities. With combat skills, this trading company was able to meet the existing Sikh ruling powers on the battlefield, and the ‘Regime Change Operation’ ended, and the ‘British Era’ of architecture and supremacy emerged in Rawalpindi, Punjab Pakistan.
A taxonomy for cerebellar cavernous malformations: subtypes of cerebellar lesions
Authors: Scherschinski Lea , Eberle Adam T. , Saggi Satvir , Jensen Kate N. , Morshed Ramin A. , Winkler Ethan A. , Catapano Joshua S. , Graffeo Christopher S. , VanBrabant Danielle , Lawrence Peter M. , Lawton Michael T.
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVE

An anatomical taxonomy has been established to guide surgical approach selection for resecting brainstem and deep and superficial cerebral cavernous malformations (CMs). The authors propose a novel taxonomy for cerebellar CMs, introduce 6 distinct neuroanatomical subtypes, and assess their clinical outcomes.

METHODS

This bi-institutional, 2-surgeon cohort study included 143 cerebellar CMs that were microsurgically treated over a 25-year period. The proposed taxonomy classifies cerebellar CMs into 6 subtypes on the basis of anatomical location as identified on preoperative MR imaging. Neurological outcomes were assessed using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS), and outcomes were compared among the subtypes, with favorable outcomes defined as mRS scores ≤ 2.

RESULTS

A total of 143 cerebellar CMs were resected in 140 patients. The mean (SD) age was 42.3 (15.2) years; 86 (60%) of the cerebellar CMs were in women, and 57 (40%) were in men. Cerebellar subtypes were suboccipital (17%, 25/143); tentorial (9%, 13/143); petrosal (43%, 62/143); vermian (13%, 18/143); tonsillar (2%, 3/143); and deep nuclear (15%, 22/143). Overall, 78 of 143 (55%) cerebellar CMs presenting to a cerebellar surface were resected without tissue transgression, and the remaining CMs (65/143, 45%) required translobular or transsulcal approaches. Complete resection was achieved in 134 of 143 cases (94%). Favorable outcomes were achieved in 91% (129/141) of cases with follow-up at a mean (SD) follow-up duration of 37.4 (53.8) months. Relative outcomes were unchanged or improved relative to the preoperative baseline in 93% (131/141) of cases with follow-up, without differences between subtypes.

CONCLUSIONS

Most cerebellar CMs are convexity lesions that do not require deep dissection. However, transsulcal and fissural approaches are used for those beneath the cerebellar surface to minimize tissue transgression and preserve associated function. Complete resection without any new deficit is accomplished in most patients. The proposed taxonomy for cerebellar CMs (suboccipital, tentorial, petrosal, vermian, tonsillar, and deep nuclear) guides the selection of craniotomy and approach to enhance patient safety and optimize neurological outcomes.
Novel application of latent class analysis to outcome assessment in traumatic brain injury with multiple injury subtypes or poly-TBI
Authors: Doty Samuel , Petitt Jordan C. , Kashkoush Ahmed , Whiting Benjamin B. , Xiao Tianqi , Francis John J. , Gunzler Douglas , Roach Mary Joan , Kelly Michael L.
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to stratify poly–traumatic brain injury (poly-TBI) patterns into discrete classes and to determine the association of these classes with mortality and withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment (WLST).

METHODS

The authors performed a single-center retrospective review of their institutional trauma registry from 2018 to 2020 to identify patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Patients were included if they had moderate to severe TBI, defined as Glasgow Coma Scale score ≤ 12 and Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) head score ≥ 3, and the presence of more than one TBI subtype. TBI subtypes were defined as subdural hemorrhage (SDH), subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), and epidural hemorrhage (EDH). Latent class analysis was used to identify patient classes based on TBI subtypes and Rotterdam CT (RCT) scores. The authors then evaluated class membership in relation to categorical outcomes of in-hospital mortality and WLST by using Lanza et al.’s method.

RESULTS

A total of 125 patients met inclusion criteria for poly-TBI. Latent class analysis yielded 3 poly-TBI classes: class 1–mixed; class 2–SDH/SAH; and class 3–EDH/SAH. Class 1–mixed had a higher likelihood of SDH, SAH, and ICH, and a lower likelihood of EDH. Class 2–SDH/SAH had a higher likelihood of only SDH and SAH. Class 3–EDH/SAH had a higher likelihood of EDH and SAH, and a lower likelihood of SDH and ICH. Class 1–mixed was relatively more likely to have an RCT score of 2. Class 2–SDH/SAH was relatively more likely to have an RCT score of 2, 3, and 4. Class 3–EDH/SAH had a higher likelihood of an RCT score of 3, 4, and 5. Class 1–mixed had significantly lower mortality (χ2 = 7.968; p = 0.005) and less WLST (χ2 = 4.618; p = 0.032) than Class 2–SDH/SAH. Class 2–SDH/SAH had the highest probability of death (0.612), followed by class 3–EDH/SAH (0.385) and class 1–mixed (0.277). Similarly, class 2–SDH/SAH had the highest WLST probability (0.498), followed by class 3–EDH/SAH (0.615) and class 1–mixed (0.238).

CONCLUSIONS

Distinct poly-TBI classes were associated with increased in-hospital mortality and WLST. Further research with larger datasets will allow for more comprehensive poly-TBI class definitions and outcomes analysis.
Prediction of contralateral progression in patients with bilateral nonhemorrhagic moyamoya disease following unilateral revascularization surgery
Authors: Pang Chang Hwan , Lee Sang Hyo , Choi Tae Won , Byoun Hyoung Soo , Kim Young-Deok , Ban Seung Pil , Bang Jae Seung , Kwon O-Ki , Oh Chang Wan , Lee Si Un
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to identify predictive factors associated with substantial contralateral progression in adult patients with bilateral nonhemorrhagic moyamoya disease (MMD) who undergo revascularization surgery (RS) on one hemisphere.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively analyzed 174 contralateral hemispheres of patients with bilateral nonhemorrhagic MMD (non-hMMD) who underwent RS on one side. The primary endpoint was defined as substantial contralateral progression requiring additional RS 6 months after the initial RS. The annual risk and predictive factors for contralateral progression were also analyzed.

RESULTS

Of 174 patients included in the study, 57 (32.8%) experienced contralateral progression over a mean follow-up of 45.3 ± 31.6 months (range 12–196 months). The annual risk for contralateral progression after initial unilateral RS was 7.7% per person-year. Multivariable analysis revealed that age (HR 0.967, 95% CI 0.944–0.992; p = 0.009) and a BMI ≥ 25 (HR 1.946, 95% CI 1.126–3.362; p = 0.017) were significant predictors of contralateral progression. Specifically, the annual risk of contralateral progression was 12.1% in the higher BMI (≥ 25) group and 4.0% in the lower BMI (< 25) group per person-year.

CONCLUSIONS

The study revealed a 7.7% per person-year rate of contralateral progression in patients with bilateral non-hMMD following unilateral RS. Younger age and a BMI ≥ 25 were identified as significant risk factors. For these patients, careful weight management and the use of antilipid agents may be crucial strategies for reducing the risk of contralateral progression after unilateral RS.
Mapping the landscape of pediatric neurosurgery: geography, gender, and trends over time
Authors: Muzyka Logan , Pugazenthi Sangami , Kann Michael R. , Strahle Jennifer M.
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVE

Recently there has been an increase in pediatric neurosurgical fellowship graduates. It is important to understand the current pediatric neurosurgical workforce to help with prospective strategic workforce planning. The authors sought to determine 1) the geographic distribution and regional retention after training and 2) academic and leadership metrics by geographic location, era of training, and gender for practicing pediatric neurosurgeons in the United States.

METHODS

Current practicing pediatric neurosurgeons were identified through American Board of Pediatric Neurological Surgery (ABPNS) certification status and the American Association of Neurological Surgeons directory. NIH RePORTER, Web of Science, and departmental and hospital networking websites were used to collect data on demographics, training, leadership, NIH involvement, and academic metrics.

RESULTS

A total of 298 ABPNS-certified pediatric neurosurgeons were identified as currently practicing in the United States. Of these pediatric neurosurgeons, 26.2% were women, 74.5% were academic, and 11.7% have received current or past NIH funding. There were significant differences in the concentration of pediatric neurosurgeons per general population based on region. A total of 117 (39.3%) pediatric neurosurgeons held leadership positions; 4 (1.3%) served as neurosurgery department chairs, 67 (22.5%) served as chief of pediatric neurosurgery (9 of whom were women), 12 (4.0%) served as residency program directors, and 32 (10.7%) served as pediatric fellowship directors. Women were more likely to currently practice in the same region in which they trained for medical school (p = 0.050), have a lower academic rank (p = 0.004), and have a lower h-index (p < 0.001). Pediatric neurosurgeons practicing in the Northeast were more likely to have completed residency (p = 0.022) and medical school (p = 0.002) in the same region as their current practice.

CONCLUSIONS

There are differences in the concentration of pediatric neurosurgeons based on region. In pediatric neurosurgery, women hold fewer leadership positions, have lower academic ranks, and are less academically impactful as measured by the h-index. As the demand for pediatric neurosurgeons evolves, thoughtful monitoring of the distribution and composition of the neurosurgical workforce can help ensure equitable access to care across the country.
Should pelvic incidence influence realignment strategy? A detailed analysis in adult spinal deformity
Authors: Williamson Tyler K. , Onafowokan Oluwatobi O. , Schoenfeld Andrew J. , Owusu-Sarpong Stephane , Lebovic Jordan , Mir Jamshaid , Das Ankita , Lorentz Nathan , Galetta Matthew , Jankowski Pawel P. , Lafage Renaud , Lafage Virginie , Passias Peter G.
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to assess how various realignment strategies affect mechanical failure and clinical outcomes in pelvic incidence (PI)–stratified cohorts following adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery.

METHODS

Median and interquartile range statistics were calculated for demographics and surgical details. Further statistical analysis was used to define subsets within PI generating significantly different rates of mechanical failure. These subsets of PI were further analyzed as subcohorts for the outcomes and effects of realignment within each subcohort. Multivariate logistic regression analysis controlling for baseline frailty and lumbar lordosis (LL; L1–S1) analyzed the association of age-adjusted realignment and Global Alignment and Proportion (GAP) strategies with the incidence of mechanical failure and clinical improvement within PI-stratified groups.

RESULTS

A parabolic relationship between PI and mechanical failure was noted, whereas patients with either < 51° (n = 174, 39.1% of cohort) or > 63° (n = 114, 25.6% of cohort) of PI generated higher rates of mechanical failure (18.0% and 20.0%, respectively) and lower rates of good outcome (80.3% and 77.6%, respectively) than those with moderate PI (51°–63°). Patients with lower PI more often met good outcome criteria when undercorrected in age-adjusted PI-LL mismatch and sagittal age-adjusted score, and those not meeting good outcome criteria were more likely to deteriorate in GAP relative LL from first to final follow-up (OR 13.4, 95% CI 1.3–139.2). In those with moderate PI, patients were more likely to meet good outcome when aligned on the GAP lordosis distribution index (LDI; OR 1.7, 95% CI 0.9–3.3). Patients with higher PI meeting good outcome were more likely to be overcorrected in sagittal vertical axis (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.1–5.2) at first follow-up and less likely to be undercorrected in T1 pelvic angle (OR 0.4, 95% CI 0.2–0.9) by final follow-up. When assessing GAP alignment, patients were more likely to meet good outcome when aligned on GAP LDI (OR 3.5, 95% CI 1.4–8.9).

CONCLUSIONS

There was a parabolic relationship between PI and both mechanical failure and clinical improvement following deformity correction in this study. Understanding the associations between this fixed parameter and poor outcomes can aid the surgeon in strategical planning when seeking to realign ASD.
Comparison of robotic or computer-assisted navigation versus fluoroscopic freehand techniques in the accuracy of posterior cervical screw placement during cervical spine surgery: a meta-analysis
Authors: Zhou Lu-Ping , Zhang Ren-Jie , Shang Yi , Zhao Chen-Hao , Kang Liang , Jia Chong-Yu , Wang Jia-Qi , Zhang Hua-Qing , Shen Cai-Liang
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVE

Robot guidance (RG) and computer-assisted navigation (CAN) have been increasingly utilized for posterior cervical screw placement in cervical spine surgery, and cervical screw malposition may contribute to catastrophic complications. However, the superiority of the navigation using RG or CAN compared with conventional freehand (FH) techniques remains controversial, and no meta-analysis comparing the two methods in cervical spine surgery has been performed.

METHODS

The PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang databases were searched for eligible literature. Studies reporting the primary outcomes of the accuracy of cervical screw placement using RG or CAN compared with FH techniques were included. Bias was evaluated using the Cochrane risk of bias criteria and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The outcomes were evaluated in terms of odds ratio or standardized mean difference and corresponding 95% confidence interval.

RESULTS

One randomized controlled trial and 18 comparative cohort studies published between 2012 and 2023 consisting of 946 patients and 4163 cervical screws were included in this meta-analysis. The RG and CAN techniques were associated with a substantially higher rate of optimal and clinically acceptable cervical screw accuracy than FH techniques. Furthermore, compared with the FH group, the navigation group showed fewer postoperative adverse events, less blood loss, shorter hospital lengths of stay, and lower postoperative Neck Disability Index scores. However, the navigation and FH groups had equivalent intraoperative times and postoperative visual analog scale and Japanese Orthopaedic Association scores at the final follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Both RG and CAN are superior to FH techniques in terms of the accuracy of cervical screw placement. Navigation techniques, including RG and CAN methods, are accurate, safe, and feasible in cervical spine surgery.
Beyond traditional predictors: the impact of the pulsatility index and cortical subarachnoid space diameter on endoscopic third ventriculostomy success
Authors: Habibzadeh Adrina , Zoghi Sina , Ansari Ali , Khademolhosseini Sepehr , Masoudi Mohammad Sadegh , Feili Afrooz , Yousefi Omid , Taheri Reza
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVE

Determining the long-term success of endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) remains challenging. This study aimed to investigate the impact of clinical and radiological factors on ETV success in pediatric patients with hydrocephalus.

METHODS

The study included patients < 18 years old with hydrocephalus who underwent ETV between March 2014 and May 2021. Data including patient age, gender, history of previous shunt surgery, previous external ventricular drain placement, intraventricular hemorrhage history, and postoperative meningitis were extracted from medical records. Imaging features such as aqueductal stenosis, third ventricle floor bowing, displaced lamina terminalis, pulsatility index (PI), and maximum diameter of the cortical subarachnoid space (CSAS) were recorded for each patient using preoperative CT scans. Two independent neurosurgeons measured the CSAS maximum diameter and the PI. CSAS measurements were obtained on axial slices of the preoperative CT scans, whereas the PI was based on intraoperative third ventricle pulsatility. Patients were followed up for 1 year after surgery, with failure defined as the need for ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) placement or death attributable to hydrocephalus.

RESULTS

Ninety-eight children with a mean age of 16.39 ± 19.07 months underwent ETV for hydrocephalus. No deaths were recorded, but over 6 months and 1 year of follow-up, 12.2% and 22.4% of patients, respectively, experienced documented ETV failure requiring VPS placement. At the 6-month follow-up, a smaller maximum diameter of the CSAS was significantly associated with ETV failure; multivariate analysis revealed that CSAS maximum diameter was a predictor of 6-month ETV failure. At the 1-year follow-up, a lower PI was significantly associated with ETV failure, and multivariate analysis confirmed the PI as a significant predictor of ETV failure within 1 year after surgery. CSAS and PI measurements were repeated to assess interrater reliability: the intraclass correlation coefficients were 0.897 and 0.669 for CSAS and PI, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This study found that the CSAS maximum diameter and the PI are predictors of ETV failure at 6 months and 1 year, respectively. These findings highlight the importance of considering specific factors such as the CSAS and PI when assessing the likelihood of ETV success in pediatric patients with hydrocephalus. Further research and consideration of these factors may help optimize patient selection and improve outcomes for those undergoing ETV as a treatment for hydrocephalus.
Some Data Dependence Results From Using $\mathcal{C}$-Class Functions in Partial Metric Spaces
Authors: Benterki Abdessalem
Published: September 2024

This research paper examines the data dependence of fixed point sets for pseudo-contractive multifunctions in partial metric spaces using the notion of $\mathcal{C}$-class functions. By building upon previous findings from the literature, this work sheds more light on some new perspectives as well as generalizations on this issue. To illustrate how the $\mathcal{C}$-class function can be applied to study the data dependence of fixed point sets for a certain pseudo-contractive multifunction, an illustrative example is given.
The Resource Curse in the Gulf Region: Charting a Path for Long-term Economic Sustainability
Authors: Ateba Benedict Belobo , Enwereji Prince Chuwuneme
Published: September 2024

The economies of the Gulf States have been reliant on abundant petroleum resources for over a century. The region has experienced substantial economic success in recent decades, attributed to its competitive advantage as the world's oil empire. This success is especially noteworthy given that oil is a major economic resource in the area. However, a new debate has emerged, focusing on the concept of the resource curse resulting from the overdependence of Gulf economies on the petrol dollar. This reliance jeopardizes the long-term and future economic sustainability of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states. This piece employs a narrative literature review to illustrate how petroleum has shaped the economic landscape, and also the oil market volatility on the economic landscape of the region. The review emphasizes on the necessity for the region to shift its economic and institutional over-dependence away from the petrol dollar to other sustainable alternative economic domains. The review proposes strategic economic directions to guide the region towards a diversified and sustainable economic portfolio, reflecting significant potential for the economy of the region and its states. Sustainable economic development portfolios such as sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, smart cities, real estate development, sports, banking, tourism, and travel were analyzed.
Impact of External Debt and Energy Consumption on Environmental Quality in Somalia
Authors: Warsmame Zakarie Abdi , Abdi Abdirahman Omar
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the interconnections between external debt, energy consumption, industrialization, and environmental quality in Somalia over the period 1990 to 2019, utilizing the ARDL bounds testing approach. Notably, a positive correlation is found between energy consumption and CO2 emissions, emphasizing the imperative for sustainable practices. In the long run, external debt is observed to have an insignificant impact on environmental quality, suggesting a strategic opportunity for policymakers to channel external funds towards environmentally sustainable projects. Short-term strategies underscore the positive link between decreased industrialization and improved environmental quality, while a cautious approach to external debt is crucial due to its short-term negative impact. The significance of the error correction term underscores the need for adaptive policies. Overall, the study advocates for comprehensive policies integrating sustainable practices and directing external financing towards eco-friendly projects, alongside a capacity building and technology transfer partnerships for environmentally conscious development in Somalia.
A Bibliometric Review to Understanding the Supply Chain of Renewable Energy
Authors: Mohamud Ibrahim Hassan , Warsame Zakarie Abdi
Published: September 2024

This bibliometric analysis investigates the evolving research landscape in renewable energy supply chains. The study uses VOSviewer software to examine influential articles, authors, countries, journals, and keywords from 2015 to 2023. Notably, 2019 marked a significant shift with a surge in publications and citations, suggesting a transition toward more impactful and higher-quality research. In subsequent years, they have witnessed fluctuations in citation counts, potentially reflecting changes in research focus and publication quality. Geographically, the United States and China stand out as leading contributors, with the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and Iran also making substantial contributions. The analysis of journals and publishers reveals variations in research impact and influence, with Elsevier emerging as a significant publisher. The keyword analysis underscores the prevalence of "Supply chains," "renewable energy resources," and "biomass" as central themes. This study offers valuable insights into the research trends and dynamics in the renewable energy supply chain field.
Exploring the Potential for Renewable Energy Consumption in Reducing Environmental Degradation in Somalia
Authors: Nor Bile Abdisalan , Yusof Yusniliyana , Warsame Zakarie Abdi
Published: September 2024

Somalia has a relatively small amount of forested land, covering only about 10.5% of the nation’s total land area. The reason for this is that much of the country’s tropical forests, which were originally located along the Shabelle and Jubba rivers reclaimed agricultural land. This study examines the relationship between environmental degradation and various variables, including renewable energy consumption, GDP, FDI inflow, and population. The study employed ARDL model to analyze the econometric relationship between various latent variables. This study found that that in Somalia, renewable energy consumption, GDP and FDI have both short-term and long-term negative and statistically significant effects on environmental degradation. However, FDI exhibits a positive and significant relationship with environmental degradation in both the short and long run. The findings of the study suggest that there is a positive correlation between renewable energy consumption and economic growth, and a negative correlation between renewable energy consumption and environmental degradation. The study also suggests that FDI may play a role in promoting renewable energy consumption and economic growth. The limitation of this study is that the study does not control for all of the potential factors that could influence the relationship between the variables. For example, the study does not control for the level of corruption in Somalia, which could potentially affect both economic growth and environmental degradation. Future research should address the limitations of this study by controlling for all of the potential factors that could influence the relationship between the variables.
Reducing CO2 Emissions by Off-Grid Photovoltaic Systems: A Case Study in the Departamento del Magdalena - Colombia
Authors: Robles-Algarín Carlos , Restrepo-Leal Diego , Carrillo-Reales Maryam
Published: September 2024

This paper presents projections on the reduction of CO2 emissions through the implementation of off-grid PV systems on 33 farms located in rural areas of the Departamento del Magdalena, where horticultural activities are performed by small local producers. To achieve this, the emission reduction was estimated for a period of 25 years using the installed PV peak power on each farm, data from the Global Solar Atlas, the emission factor in Colombia for electricity generation and information established in the harmonization project of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). In order to compare the estimations, temperature and solar irradiance data were obtained from 10 farms near the installations, located in 8 municipalities within the department. With these data and through mathematical modeling, the energy generated by each PV system and the projection of non-emitted CO2 emissions were calculated. The results obtained demonstrated that, in both cases, the projections for emission reduction are similar, highlighting that the municipalities of Ciénaga and Sitio Nuevo contribute the highest amount of saved CO2 due to the projections of higher energy production in these locations.
Volatility Transmission between Oil Price and Exchange Rate
Authors: Hamida Arafet , Nasr Salah ben
Published: September 2024

This article presents a study on the transmission of oil price volatility to the exchange rates of 14 countries (net oil exporters and importers) during the period from 02/01/2000 to 31/11/2022. The aim is to compare the effect of oil price fluctuations on exchange rate volatility based on the country's nature. Using ARCH, GARCH, and GARCH-BEKK models, our results reveal that the real effective exchange rate is significantly linked to fluctuations in the real oil price for both categories of countries: oil importers and exporters. These findings have important implications for monetary, fiscal, inflationary, and trade policies for these countries.
On the Way to Net Zero Emissions. Can Environmental Tax be the Game Changer? The Vise Grad Group Evidence
Authors: Nsiah Takyi Kwabena , Govurova Beata , Mikeskac Martin
Published: September 2024

Today, protecting the environment is a top issue for global policy. In essence, the literature has identified several macroeconomic problems as factors in environmental deterioration. The purpose of the investigation was to explore environmental deterioration (EVD) and energy consumption (ENC) by Vise grad regions. Environmental taxes (ENTX) and carbon taxes have been proving to be a significant factor in carbon mitigation. The analysis was carried out for the period 1994-2021, employing the fully modified ordinary least square (FMOLS) and dynamic ordinary least square (DOLS). The empirical evaluation indicates that ENC had a positive while ENTX had a negative nexus with EVD for the Vise grad nations. Similarly, the moderating role of ENTX*ENC – EVD exhibited an inverse affiliation. In the long run, the dependence on non-renewable energy appreciates EVD. However, effective policy implementation of ENTX will lead to quality of the environment. The empirical results have shown that ENTX can be employed to control the demand and utilization of coal, gas, and nuclear in the Vise grad regions. This research offers policymakers and government organizations in these areas a reference point for their investments in more eco-friendly technology, human capital, urbanization, trade openness, and appropriate environmental levies to demonstrate the quality of the environment.
Do Climate Change Matter for Agricultural Production in an era of Globalization? Empirical Insights from Pakistan
Authors: Khurshid Nabila , Arfa Butt Natasha , Fiaz Asma , Sameer Issa Suzan , Tabash Mosab I. , Al-Absy Mujeeb Saif Mohsen
Published: September 2024

The purpose of current research is to examine the “sunspot theory” of business cycles in the case of Pakistan in the globalization scenario. The current research uses time-series data from 1980 to 2021. To find out the impact of Climatic variation on agricultural Production, the NARDL technique is used for the estimation of results. Results confirmed that CO2 emissions and mean temperature show an asymmetric effect on Agricultural production. Variations in CO2 emissions and mean temperature pose mixed results about agricultural production both in the long-run and short-run in different globalization scenarios. Further, through discussion, it is confirmed that this decrease in agricultural production due to climatic variation has slowed down the economic activity in an economy. Based on the results, it is recommended that government must expand tree planting projects and maintain greenery at all costs. The problem is expected to worsen as the temperature rises and the population grows. Agriculture producers must be taught new and sophisticated agricultural and cultivation practices. To address the issue of water scarcity, the government of Pakistan must construct more dams and reservoirs to give farmers greater access to water. The last but not least, this research confirmed the validity of the sunspot theory in the case of Pakistan.
Eco-Smart Economics: Revolutionizing Jordan’s Logistics with Sustainable Drone Technology
Authors: Samawi Ghazi A. , Bwaliez Omar M. , Dmour Wajd A. , Mdanat Metri F. , Ta’Amnha Mohammad A.
Published: September 2024

This study explores the implications of sustainable drone technology on the development of Jordan’s logistics sector through the eco-smart economics lens. Based on in-depth qualitative data drawn from 42 semi-structured interviews conducted in Jordan, the study evaluates drones’ influences on environmental, operational, and economic processes, finding that drone technology has the potential to substantially improve delivery timeframes, diminish carbon emissions, and contribute to the sustainable development agenda. However, the study has also outlined several limitations, such as regulatory, technical, and public concerns, especially related to privacy and security. In this regard, for Jordan to benefit from drones in the logistics sector, policy, technological, and partnership advancements are required. Such changes would ensure that Jordan develops a sustainable, rapid, and efficient logistics sector to strengthen its economy.