bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic value of CT liver-to-spleen attenuation ratio in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and atherosclerotic plaque
Authors: Han Dong , He Chongan , Gu Shuang , Zhang Dongxuan , Xu Liyun
Published: October 2024

Objective: To explore the clinical value of computed tomography (CT) liver-to-spleen (L/S) attenuation ratio in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) accompanied by atherosclerotic plaque (AP).
Methods: This was a single-center, retrospective, observational study of patients who were diagnosed with NAFLD undergoing CT scans at Beijing Changping Hospital of Chinese Medicine from April 2020 to April 2022. Patients were grouped according to whether they had a diagnosis of AP or not. Healthy individuals without NAFLD undergoing CT scans during the same period were also included as a control group. The patients were matched for gender, age, and BMI in a 1:1:1 ratio. Correlations between the CT L/S attenuation ratio, liver function indicators, and blood lipid levels were assessed in the three groups. The predictive value of the CT L/S attenuation ratio was evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and the area under the curve (AUC) analyses.
Results: Eighty-nine cases in each group. The three groups had significant differences in liver function and blood lipid levels (P<0.05). The CT L/S attenuation ratio in the NAFLD+AP and NAFLD groups was lower than that in the control group and was the lowest in the NAFLD+AP group (P<0.05). There was no significant correlation between the CT L/S attenuation ratio and liver function indicators (P>0.05), but it positively correlated with high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and negatively correlated with low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycerides (TG), and total cholesterol (TC) (P<0.05). The CT L/S attenuation ratio had a high predictive value for NAFLD patients with AP (AUC=0.859).
Conclusions: The CT L/S attenuation ratio in NAFLD patients with AP is significantly reduced and is closely related to the levels of blood lipid indicators. The CT L/S attenuation ratio has a high predictive value for NAFLD patients with AP.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.10.10578
How to cite this: Han D, He C, Gu S, Zhang D, Xu L. Diagnostic value of CT liver-to-spleen attenuation ratio in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and atherosclerotic plaque. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(10):2416-2421. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.10.10578
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Anxiety and depression among various blood groups of undergraduate medical and physical therapy students
Authors: Hira Rubab e , Muhammad Ali  , Jawed Shireen , Altaf Benash
Published: October 2024

Objective: To access the frequency of depression and anxiety among the various blood groups of medical and physiotherapy students.
Method: A cross-sectional study on 215 MBBS and DPT students was conducted at Aziz Fatimah Medical and Dental College (AFMDC) from November 2022-May 2023. Google Form containing sections for relevant information concerning participants and fourteen items- Hospital anxiety and depression Scale (HADS) questionnaire for evaluation of anxiety and depression, was administered among the MBBS and DPT students through social media. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 26. Mean ±SD was calculated for continuous variables like HADS score and age. Frequency and percentage were calculated for categorical variables such as blood groups, anxiety and depression. ANOVA was used to compare HADS score among various blood groups. P-value ≤0.05 was taken statistically significant.
Result: Mild anxiety was found in A>O>B>AB, while severe anxiety was found in B>A>AB>O. Mild depression was found in A>B>O>AB, while severe depression was found in A>O>B>AB. However, on ANOVA, when comparing anxiety and depression scores with blood groups, they were found to be higher in blood Group-A. Rhesus factor positive blood groups have severe anxiety and mild depression while Rhesus factor negative blood groups have mild anxiety and severe depression.
Conclusion: Severe anxiety was common in blood Group-B while severe depression was common in people with blood Group-A. While mild anxiety and mild depression was found in blood Group-A, however, sever anxiety was common in positive Rhesus factor blood types while severe depression was found in negative Rhesus factor blood types.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.10.8984
How to cite this: Rubab-e-Hira, Ali M, Jawed S, Altaf B. Anxiety and depression among various blood groups of undergraduate medical and physical therapy students. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(10):2422-2427. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.10.8984
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Effect of different initiation timing of levothyroxine on pregnancy outcomes and development of offspring in women with gestational subclinical hypothyroidism
Authors: Fei Meirong , Shen Lingnv , Ding Xiuqin , Li Guoduan , You Jingyang
Published: October 2024

Objective: To explore the impact of levothyroxine (L-T4) administration at different time points on pregnancy outcomes and offspring development in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH).
Methods: In this retrospective study, medical records of 107 patients with SCH treated in Huzhou Nanxun District People’s Hospital from February 2021 to March 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Of them, 55 patients received treatment before eight gestational weeks (Early group), and 52 patients received treatment after eight gestational weeks (Mid group). Levels of thyroid function indicators, occurrence of adverse pregnancy outcomes, occurrence of adverse reactions, and development of offspring before and after the treatment were compared.
Results: After the treatment, the thyroid function indicators in both groups improved compared to before treatment, and the improvement in the Early group was significantly better than that in the Mid group (P<0.05). The incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes in the early group (5.45%) was lower than that in the mid group (19.23%) (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions between the groups (P>0.05). The scores of fine motor, gross motor, language, personal-social behavior, and adaptability in offspring of patients the Early group were higher than those of the mid group (P<0.05).
Conclusions: Early administration of L-T4 is safe and can effectively improve thyroid function in SCH patients, reduce adverse pregnancy outcomes, and ensure growth and development of offspring.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.10.9724
How to cite this: Fei M, Shen L, Ding X, Li G, You J. Effect of different initiation timing of levothyroxine on pregnancy outcomes and development of offspring in women with gestational subclinical hypothyroidism. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(10):2400-2404.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.10.9724
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
The Man of Letters: Professor Barrett Wendell and the Style of White Supremacy
Authors: Coit Emily
Published: October 2024

Abstract: The role of racism in the history of literary studies is broadly recognized; this article, however, turns from established emphases on exclusionary canons and race science to focus instead on style. Taking up the case of Harvard professor Barrett Wendell, whose influence in the fields of composition pedagogy and US literary history has been far-reaching, it examines his mannered ways of reading and teaching as a "man of letters," which lean into tacit expression, invocations of "common sense," and often-jocular forms of insincerity. Explaining how Wendell makes reading a site for affirming shared assumptions and mutual belonging, the article argues that he celebrates literary study as a means of experiencing a common humanity that is inclusive, diverse, and entirely white. Highlighting Wendell's opposition to the liberal racism dominant at his institution, it shows how he expresses his own contrarian illiberal racism by playing the troll.
Authorial Designs: Daniel Berkeley Updike, Edith Wharton, and Institutional Reciprocity in the American Literary Marketplace
Authors: Liming Sheila
Published: October 2024

Abstract: Daniel Berkeley Updike (1860–1941) was an American printer whose Merrymount Press began operating in the 1890s out of Boston, aspiring to standards set by William Morris's Kelmscott Press in England. Central to Updike's success was his relationship with the writer Edith Wharton. Updike oversaw typographical design for four of Wharton's earliest works: The Decoration of Houses (1897), The Greater Inclination (1899), Crucial Instances (1901), and Sanctuary (1903). This essay examines the relationship between Updike and Wharton with an eye for American institutional exchange and argues Updike's design schemes helped engineer her reputation as a serious literary figure.
Optimizing the incubation conditions of third-stage larvae of the camel nasal bot Cephalopina titillator (Diptera: Oestridae) for harvesting adult flies
Authors: Al-Sabi Mohammad Nafi Solaiman , Almohammed Hams , Alghatam Fatema , Alhafiz Ghadeer , Al-Jabr Omar , Meligy Ahmed M. A.
Published: October 2024

Background and Aim: Understanding the developmental conditions of Cephalopina titillator larvae and their effect on the success of pupation and adult emergence can help prevent and control this disease in camels. Incubating C. titillator larvae in vitro requires optimized conditions that have not been adequately reported in the literature. This study aimed to optimize conditions for harvesting adult flies from third-stage larvae (L3).

Materials and Methods: L3 collected from naturally infested camels was washed in sterile saline, weighed, and placed in vials containing local sand. The vials were covered with gauze and incubated at 30°C–36°C with 60%–62% relative humidity in an environmental chamber.

Results: A minimum critical weight of 754 mg per larva was found to be essential for the successful eclosion of the adults, regardless of the sex of the emerged flies. The pupariation period lasted 1–8 days (d) and took 5–13 days. Most incubated L3 formed puparia, but most failed to emerge as adults. The success rate of eclosion was 37.1%. The hatched adults survived for up to 18 days, and the females survived longer (12 d; 6–18) than the males (8.1 d; 3–16).

Conclusion: The higher eclosion success tendency of certain sand types might be influenced by the sand’s physical and/ or chemical characteristics. The current in vitro conditions resemble those during the hot seasons and are suitable for harvesting viable adults of C. titillator from L3.

Keywords: camel nasal bot, Cephalopina titillator, eclosion success, in vitro incubation, life span, myiasis.
Effect of Industrialization on Taxes from Income, Profit and Capital Gains Among Sub-Sahara African Countries
Authors: Busari Tajudeen Abimbola , Dada Samuel Olajide , Adegbie Festus Folajimi , Ogundajo Grace Oyeyemi
Published: October 2024

Tax revenue is a crucial financial resource for governments worldwide. Developed nations often secure ample tax revenue through robust industrial performance. In contrast, developing economies struggle with various challenges that hinder tax revenue from sources such as income, profit, and capital gains, largely due to high unemployment and inadequate industrialization. This study employed an ex-post facto research design and analyzed panel data from 38 countries over 21 years (2001–2021), sourced from the World Bank Group Database. The System Generalized Method of Moments (SGMM) analysis revealed that industrial performance significantly impacts tax revenue from income, profit, and capital gains in sub-Saharan African countries. The study concluded that advancing industrialization in sub-Saharan Africa is essential for maximizing tax revenue from these sources. It is recommended that governments in the region focus on accelerating industrial growth as a strategy to achieve sustainable tax revenue generation.
A Constructivist Leader Avoids the Bankruptcy of an Emblematic Company and the Deepening of Deindustrialization in Europe: Lessons From a Case Study
Authors: Lopes Albino , Romana Fernando Acabado , Barrosa Luis , Martins Antonio Eduardo
Published: October 2024

Confronting a complex reality always causes a mixture of shock that continues, even after acceptance. The moment Bertrand Martin takes over C.M.M. Sulzer-France in 1984, the company is in the disaster situation. With the Naval Construction crisis, the order book quickly ran out, the stock warehouses were full, and people's morale was at a level close to exhaustion. Everyone expected either closure or, at the very least, a massive collective dismissal. B. Martin's position surprises everyone and everything, equivalent to a real electroshock, according to his own expression. In a staff meeting, called by him to “say what he came for”, B. Martin (or a member of his management team) holds back and does not even formulate a word that evokes “solutions”. Faced with the dramatic events that the company was experiencing, B. Martin says he is at this staff meeting to hear… solutions, as an alternative to closure or massive layoffs. Rarely have words like these been heard in companies in a country accustomed to a hierarchical organizational culture and job cuts in response to crises. Voluntary problem-solving groups, involving more than 300 people from all hierarchical levels, developed a plan with 450 measures. The workers' assembly votes on the plan unanimously. In a short time, the company changes radically and comes out of the red, accepting a difficult challenge, associated with an order for two large power plant engines, for China, previously considered unrealizable. The dynamics introduced into the company become proverbial with unusual repercussions throughout France. The case seems to fit more into the order of counter factuality than a plausible situation. Four orders of reasons seem to have contributed to the novelty of the director general's communication: (1) A general director who, instead of starting by presenting a speech of hope (to create a climate of positive expectation), as is customary to do, exposes the naked reality for everyone to observe. (2) A leader who says he has no solutions but was available to listen to the solutions to be found within the organization. (3) An entrepreneur who knew how to listen to himself and listen to what he would call a “crazy dream” that mobilized the talents of each subject. (4) A people engineer who knew how to intuit, as an organizational reference, the thirst for collectively shared change and which would allow 70% of all four hundred proposals from the working groups to be carried out in six months. The constructivist transformational leadership of this leader, unlikely given the context, Bertrand Martin, made the difference, in a situation where “hope seemed to have disappeared”, in the words of Dante, in the “Divine Comedy” – sequel to Inferno.
The Role of Innovation in the Competition Between Fintechs and Traditional Banks in Brazil
Authors: Schreiber Dusan , Viana Luciane Pereira , Gribler Francini Manoela
Published: October 2024

The Brazilian banking market has distinct and peculiar characteristics, resulting from its historical evolution, specific cultural traits and control exercised by the Central Bank. This article aims to analyze, from the perspective of one of the largest Brazilian banks, the role of innovation, products and processes, in the competition between fintechs and traditional banks. The methodology used was a single case study, qualitative and descriptive approach, with data collection through interviews with managers and customers of Alfa Bank and internal and external documentary survey. It has been evident that the emergence of Fintechs, with its flexible business model, with reduced operational costs, provided by product and process innovation, impacted the banking market in Brazil, traditionally dominated by a small number of large banks, which operated in a traditional way. The analyzed bank, known as Alfa, follows technological developments and improves its main products and services, taking into account suggestions from both employees and customers. The results also showed that Brazilian customers recognize the importance of innovation, especially technology-based, but also value the physical presence of traditional banks, which inspires more confidence in them than Fintechs, which operate online.
Ethics in Sambas Malay Regional Literary Texts
Authors: Effendy Chairil , Muhammad Asrori
Published: October 2024

This research seeks to explore and understand the ethical values reflected in the texts of Sambas Malay folklore. Thirty-five (35) texts were studied, which are compiled in seven (7) books of Sambas Malay folk tales, namely Si Gentar Alam, Datuk Kulup, Anak Hantu, Kalantika, Si Miskin dan Firman Tuhan, Kandung Dagang Palembang, and Nek Kuntan. Through the close reading method, ethical values that guide the lives of the communities owning these texts were found. The dominant values relate to honesty, loyalty, a sense of shame, humility (not being arrogant), prioritizing others (altruism), forgiveness, religious devotion, caring for the poor, obedience to parents, respect for leaders, and respect for others. These ethical values have preserved the life of the community for centuries. In navigating life in an era filled with rapid change, high uncertainty, complex issues, and ambiguity resulting from technological disruption, these values remain highly relevant. Therefore, these ethical values need to continue being internalized in the lives of the Sambas Malay community in particular, and Indonesian society in general.
Risky Sexual Behaviour and the Associated Factors Among Secondary School Youths in Khorixas, Namibia
Authors: Petrus Jacobina Ndinelago , Lukolo Linda Ndeshipandula , Kimera Charles Lukanga
Published: October 2024

Background: Like most African countries, Namibia has a large percentage of its population in the youthful age group, most of whom are in secondary school. In Namibia, the age of consent for sex is 16 years but, in most cases, children have their sexual debut way below the age of 16 years. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of risky sexual behaviour and the associated factors among secondary school youths aged 15-21 years in the Khorixas district of the Kunene Region in Namibia. Methods: This was a quantitative descriptive cross-sectional study. A self-administered pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect data from 276 learners, selected from three public schools in the Khorixas district employing a cluster sampling technique. Information on demographics and factors associated with risky sexual behaviour was gathered. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25 software which included descriptive statistics generating frequencies and percentages. Results: The study revealed the prevalence of risky sexual behaviour among secondary school youths in Khorixas district, Kunene region of Namibia to be 78.9%. The risky sexual behaviour identified included multiple partners, nonuse of condoms and early sexual debut. Gender, place of residence, parental educational level, peer pressure, alcohol use/abuse, and watching pornographic content were some of the factors found to lead to risky sexual behaviour among the youths in this district of Namibia. Conclusion: Risky sexual behaviour is common in secondary schools in Khorixas district of Namibia. This sexual behaviour may follow these youngsters to adulthood and may significantly affect their social and reproductive life. Complications resulting from risky sexual behaviour among school youths include contracting STIs and HIV, getting unwanted/unplanned pregnancies and dropping out of school prematurely.
Public Relations Campaign Program Evaluation: A Descriptive Study of the 'Hard Work Free of Worry' Campaign by BPJS Employment
Authors: Darmawan Java Chandra , Wardasari Nilam
Published: October 2024

This research discusses the evaluation of the public relations campaign "Kerja Keras Bebas Cemas" launched by BPJS Ketenagakerjaan to raise awareness and participation among the public, particularly informal workers, in the social security program. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the implementation stages, effects, and impacts of the campaign. This research employs a descriptive qualitative method involving in-depth interviews, documentation, and online observation to gather data. The evaluation results indicate that the campaign successfully raised public awareness and participation, as evidenced by a significant increase in participant registrations. The campaign was conducted on a national scale, led by the Deputi Bidang Komunikasi and executed integrally by all BPJS Ketenagakerjaan branch offices through systematic stages. The conclusion of this research shows that the "Kerja Keras Bebas Cemas" campaign effectively achieved its goals of increasing participation and public awareness. However, improvements are needed in message measurement and media selection to enhance effectiveness further.
Boundary Between Art and Pornography: Differences in Image Identification Between Artificial Intelligence and Human Intelligence
Authors: Chen Rain , Lu Hsiu-Ching
Published: October 2024

This study examined whether Microsoft Azure and human participants differed significantly in their judgment of controversial image content (e.g., adult and violent content). Significant differences were observed between the Azure- and participant-awarded scores on all four indexes—Adult, Racy, Gore, and Event Description. The artificial intelligence made stricter judgments than did the participants. The introduction of artificial intelligence may facilitate the efficient judgment of images by website administrators. However, the standards upheld by artificial intelligence appear to be unique and stricter than those upheld by people. In the short term, the boundary between art and pornography may remain difficult to identify. Assessing the difference in judgments between artificial and human intelligence should be a topic of continual concern.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Law in Chile
Authors: Tomé José Manuel Salum
Published: October 2024

The TEA Law ensures the right to equal opportunities and safeguards the social inclusion of children, adolescents and adults with ASD, eliminating any form of discrimination. It promotes a comprehensive approach in the social, health and education areas, and raises awareness in society on this issue. The law is based on fundamental principles such as dignified treatment, progressive autonomy, gender perspective, intersectorality, participation and social dialogue, early detection, continuous monitoring, and neurodiversity.
A Meta-Model Of E-Collaboration In Classroom Organization And Cbc Learners Performance In Public Primary Schools In Kilifi County
Authors: Ratanya Scholastica
Published: October 2024

Classroom management is a significant aspect that matters a great deal to enhance student learning. Past studies have established a link between classroom management and student performance. Specifically, this study intends to fill existing knowledge gap on classroom organization and arrangement and classroom management time. This paper seeks to establish the effect of classroom layout of the seating patterns on students’ outcomes on improving CBC learners’ performance in primary schools in Kilifi County. The study also aims at finding out the effect of organization of classroom occurrences on improving CBC learners’ performance in primary schools in Kilifi South Sub-County. Two independent variables will guide this study and a dependent variable. This study was significant in providing support to both public and private schools during this COVID-19 era where learners are using more technologically based learning equipment and materials. This study will also provide novel insights to the Ministry of Education and policy makers in enacting suitable polices to enhance teaching and learning in primary schools. and Eison’s Active Learning Continuum and Classroom-Based Model of Student Engagement were the foundational theories of this study. Descriptive research design was applicable for this study a nd t he target population of the study was 65 public primary schools in Kilifi Sub-Counties. Sampling was carried out by use of simple random sampling and convenience sampling where a sample size of 30% of the population was achieved hence a 20 Public primary schools form Kilifi County. Structured questionnaires were used as the focal data collection instrument. Classification of data was done and data analysis was carried out by use of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), (version 22.0). Data was presented by descriptive and inferential statistics for simplification purposes. One of the findings of this study was that most primary schools in Kilifi Sub-Counties had similarities and differences in the classroom organization and arrangements patterns for the entire of terms of the year. The implication of this phenomenon was that classrooms are arranged to enhance student’s learning. This reflects the significance of primary school teachers with appropriate materials and equipment to establish appropriate classroom arrangements to enhance learner performance. One of the findings from this study was the diversity efforts in enhancing CBC learners team learning. It was concluded that efforts used by CBC teachers to ignite creativity through sharing of opinions and experiences provided new ways of learning. The study recommends that CBC teachers should be facilitated in order to share online space organization and enhance e-collaboration with teachers from other environments. This was significant as it would aid in enhancing learner’ concentration enhancing the ability of good time management. This was projected to improve overall learner’ outcomes.
Intention to Use Internet of Things Among Future Accountants: Analysis Using the Technology Acceptance Model
Authors: Jasmani Nurul Syamila , Shuhidan Shazalina Mohamed , Awang Yunita
Published: October 2024

The study explores factors influencing future accountants' intention to use the Internet of Things (IoT) in accounting by employing the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Key factors such as perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and attitude were examined using an online survey targeted to final-semester students at a public university’s Accounting Department. While 337 participants were targeted, only 121 took part. The primary objective of the survey is to access these students' perceptions of the various factors that influence the integration of IoT into accounting practices. The data was analysed using statistical techniques include correlation analysis and regression to test multiple hypotheses about the relationships between factors. The study was able to provide insights into how IoT adoption among future accountants can help transform the accounting industry. It also enhances understanding on the challenges and opportunities in integrating IoT into accounting practices. Key findings indicate that perceived usefulness has a significant and positive relationship with behavioural intention among future accountants, suggesting that they are more inclined to adopt IoT if they perceive it as useful. However, perceived ease of use and attitude do not have statistically significant impact on behavioural intention. The findings can help educational institutions and technology providers better prepare accountants for an evolving job market.
Finding a Place: Education in the Meiji Period and Doshisha University
Authors: Derrah Richard H.
Published: October 2024

This paper details the founding of Doshisha University by Joseph Hardy Niijima. It describes the unique social role played by the university and then contextualizes this role within the broader narrative of the creation of a modern educational system during the Meiji Period. The findings indicate that the combination of Christian and science education helped former samurai who felt disenfranchised within the new modern era of Japan to find their place within this new society.
Islamic Value-Based Digital Storytelling in Persuasive Messages on Social Media for Crowdfunding Organizations (Narrative Analysis of Instagram Account @Actforhumanity)
Authors: Satriaji Afif Zuhdi , Destrity Nia Ashton
Published: October 2024

This research aims to analyze narrative digital storytelling based on Islamic values created by the Instagram account @actforhumanity. The researchers use a narrative analysis method within a constructivist paradigm, focusing on posts containing photos, videos, and captions that include Islamic values, characterization, emotion, and setting elements. The study covers posts from October 1, 2021, to January 20, 2022. The research identifies ten programs conducted by the Aksi Cepat Tanggap team. Two characterization methods were found: Aksi Cepat Tanggap as the hero helping victims and descriptions of the problems faced by victims. The study identifies thirteen types of settings, with citizen residences, refugee camps, and open spaces being the most dominant. Eleven emotions were identified, with sadness, compassion, and joy being the most prevalent. Seventeen kinds of Islamic values were used to build narratives, with the values of caring, charity, and helping each other being the most prominent.
Impact of Internet of Things, Cloud Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Digital Capabilities, Digital Innovation, IT Flexibility on Firm Performance in Saudi Arabia Islamic Bank
Authors: Alqahtani Miad Murayh M , Singh Harcharanjit , Haddadi Essa Ali A , Al-Shibli Fatema Salim Rashid , Al-balushi Hanan Ahmed Abdullah
Published: October 2024

This study delves into the impact of technological advancements on firm performance within the Islamic banking sector in Saudi Arabia, focusing on the roles of Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities, Cloud Computing Capabilities (CCC), and Artificial Intelligence (AI) capabilities. It explores how these technological dimensions influence operational efficiency, customer engagement, and competitive positioning, thereby affecting overall firm performance. The research further investigates the mediating role of digital innovation in translating technological capabilities into performance outcomes and examines the moderating effects of digital capabilities and IT flexibility on this relationship. Through empirical analysis, the study demonstrates that IoT, CCC, and AI capabilities are crucial drivers of firm performance, offering significant opportunities for process optimization, service innovation, and market differentiation. Digital innovation is identified as a key mediator that enables Islamic banks to harness the full potential of these technologies, suggesting that the strategic integration of digital innovation practices is vital for realizing performance gains. Additionally, the findings highlight the importance of robust digital capabilities and a flexible IT infrastructure in maximizing the benefits of technological advancements, underscoring their role in facilitating adaptation to technological changes and fostering a culture of continuous innovation. The study contributes to the literature on technology management and banking performance by providing insights into the strategic value of technological capabilities and digital innovation within the Islamic banking context. It offers practical implications for banking executives and policymakers in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach that encompasses technological adoption, innovation management, and capability development to achieve enhanced firm performance in the digital era.
Transitioning from Secondary Level (8 – 12) To Higher Institution Entry Towards Enhancing Curriculum Design: A Case of The Namibian Education System
Authors: Hamunyela Hilma Nangula , Kakambi William Mafelelezo
Published: October 2024

This study examines the critical transition from secondary education to higher institutions in Namibia, focusing on grades 8-12 and entry into higher education. It uses a framework that highlights the interplay between Senior High School (SHS) profiles, entry requirements, transitioning, and curriculum redesign. The research addresses key issues, such as public universities' entry criteria, SHS graduates' preparedness for university life, and the relationship between entry requirements and transitioning readiness. Additionally, it explores how SHS profiles influence this transition and its implications for curriculum redesign. By reviewing existing literature and collecting quantitative and qualitative data, the study aims to offer insights that inform interventions and policy reforms. The findings are intended to guide educational stakeholders, policymakers, and practitioners in improving the transition process, promoting academic success and overall development for Namibian students.
Digital Transformation, Emotional Intelligence, and Organizational Culture Toward Internal Audit Quality: Conceptual Framework
Authors: Alsagoor Muidh Hamad , Daud Zaidi Bin Mat , Osman Mohammad Noor Hisham Bin
Published: October 2024

This paper investigates the interplay between digital transformation, emotional intelligence (EI), and internal auditing quality within Saudi public institutions, with a focus on the mediating role of EI and the moderating role of organizational culture. The advent of digital transformation has significantly influenced internal auditing practices, necessitating an adaptation to new technologies and methodologies. Emotional intelligence is identified as a crucial factor in enabling audit teams to effectively manage the challenges and opportunities presented by digital transformation, enhancing communication, decision-making, and adaptability. Organizational culture further influences this relationship by providing a supportive environment that facilitates the adoption of digital innovations and the development of EI among audit personnel. The findings suggest that a synergistic approach, incorporating digital transformation initiatives with the development of EI and fostering a conducive organizational culture, can significantly enhance the quality and effectiveness of internal auditing in Saudi public institutions. This study contributes to the understanding of how digital transformation, EI, and organizational culture interact to improve internal auditing practices, offering valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners aiming to optimize internal audit functions in the face of ongoing digital advancements.
Change in Teacher-Student Relationship Quality during a Tier-One Character Education Intervention
Authors: Garwood Justin D.
Published: October 2024

The rise in students’ mental health struggles and declining rates of prosocial behavior in schools has resulted in increased attention on the social, emotional, and behavioral aspects of schooling. Within the broader category of social-emotional learning, character education includes a focus on students’ intrinsic values and ways of thinking related to achieving their goals and developing personal relationships. One increasingly popular, yet under-researched, character education program for school-aged students is the Positivity Project (P2). The P2 program is a universal professional development intervention focused on the 24 unique character strengths from positive psychology. The purpose of the current study was to implement a quasi-experimental design to examine the association between teachers’ use of P2 and changes in teacher-student relationship quality. Results suggested significant effects, with increases in closeness and decreases in conflict, yielding moderate effect sizes. Implications for practice and research are discussed.
Relapses in Alcohol and Cocaine Dependence in Spousal Relationships: A Behavioral Assessment with Couple
Authors: Silva Adriana Madeira Alvares , Borloti Elizeu , Ferrari Jaqueline Vago
Published: October 2024

Contingency analysis is a central concept and method in behavior analysis for understanding how the environment influences human behavior. In the treatment of chemical dependency, this analysis makes it possible to examine the functional relationships between antecedent stimuli, behaviors, and consequences (antecedent-behavior-consequence model) in order to understand and modify behavior. Through contingency analysis, professionals can personalize and adapt interventions according to the individual needs of substance-dependence patients, making it a fundamental tool in the multidisciplinary approach to relapse prevention. The purpose of this article is to conduct analyses of contingencies described in reports of relapse episodes of psychoactive substance use by individuals diagnosed with alcohol dependence and cocaine dependence, formally married, throughout their spousal behavioral histories. Based on detailed and systematic information about more than one case in comparison, contingency analyses of relapse episodes were conducted. The study sample consisted of four heterosexual couples (total N = 8), with one individual in the couple diagnosed with alcohol or cocaine dependence. The selection was made through the Rehabilitation Program of a Military Police Hospital located in Vitória/ES, Brazil. The analyses revealed common contingencies, including social pressure (from the friends' group with their invitations), negative emotional states (elicited by plans gone wrong, adverse conditions), and physiological dependence (craving, withdrawal syndrome, tolerance, and salience of use). The specificity of the spousal relationship provided the nuance for these contingencies, emphasizing the importance of therapeutic interventions with couples to assist in preventing relapses, including stress management skills, craving coping, conflict resolution, frustration tolerance, and communication.
The Influence of Brazilian Culture on Organizational Structure, Employee Motivation and Recruitment and Selection Practices, While Considering German Practices, is Significant
Authors: Shalwani Anoosha
Published: October 2024

Organizational behavior (OB) focuses on studying the behavior of people within organizations. It aims to understand, predict, and influence human behavior an structure to enhance organizational performance. Globalization refers operating and competing in the global economy while upholding social responsibilities and business ethics. There is a prediction by French that the global shortage of workers may decrease in the future. Additionally, adopting cross-cultural approach in OB helps in recognizing variations in workplace attitudes and behavior among individuals and groups (Christy, 11th edition, 2016). Geert Hofstede identified four cultural dimensions: power distance, uncertainty avoidance, individualism, and masculinity, Additionally, Fon Trompenaars, Charles Hampden- Turner identified seven areas in which cultural differences affect aspects of organizational behavior. These areas include relationships and roles, individual oriented societies, the display of emotions in public, the significance of building relationships in diffuse cultures, and the value of achievements within societies, the shift from collectivism towards individualism in Brazil validates Hofstede’s assumption about cultural change due to global economic growth. (Podrug, et al., n.d.).
Public Policy Analysis on the Required Administration of Mountainous Areas in Turkey
Authors: Karaman Zerrin Toprak
Published: October 2024

Turkey is a mountainous country. 50% of Turkey's territory is located at an altitude of 1000 meters and 2/3 of it is located at an altitude of 500 meters and above.  The percentage of mountainous areas in the total of Turkish lands is 74.6%. How aware is the administration of the mountains that bring multi-faceted and strategic meaning to the geographical structure of Turkey? Mountains need to be subjects of public policies. Yet they have not been regulated by law so far. What are the reasons behind this?   Human beings must first design the spatial environment in which they live. This principle should be linked to the need for an effective administration planning of mountains. However, unfortunately even the word "mountain" does not clearly appear in the public policies of our country. These policies only focus on resources that are categorized as above-ground and underground. Administrative strategy of mountainous areas is not included in space analyses. It is also a security policy requirement to create basic public policies around the mountain in a multifaceted way, not by hiding mountain area administration under the title of any natural resource, but by handling it separately so that it is obvious within the goals of sustainable community development. Due to the characteristics of the mountains, international interest in the subject is also gradually increasing. 11th of December has been annually celebrated as the “International Mountain Day” since 2002. The ecological resilience of nature related to the existence of valuable resources also corresponds to the resilience of societies against all kinds of threats, especially against climate changes. The world now evaluates countries in terms of how they can manage these resources not just in terms of which goods and resources they have. It is important to make a distinction between the administration of mountainous areas within the public administration organization and the rural activities and to highlight the uniqueness of this type of administration.  Public policies on mountains and administration of mountainous areas should rapidly be established in Turkey. In order to find balance between usage and protection, it is crucial to utilize the skills of developing scientific design strategies, objectively analyzing and interpreting and switching to new organizations and methods that are up-to-date. This paper focuses on the need for creating public policies regarding mountainous areas and proposes a model for these policies.
Impact of Gender Role Attitudes and Gender Differences on the Evaluation of Female Leaders: Insights from a Survey of Japanese University Students
Authors: Muto Mami , Katsurada Emiko
Published: October 2024

Women’s active participation in society is desirable. However, it has not increased sufficiently in contemporary Japan, where the ratio of women decision-makers in politics and corporations is low, and gender inequality persists. One reason for this could be people’s negative perception of female leaders. This study focused on female managers as female leaders. It examined whether people’s gender-role attitudes might affect their attitudes about female leaders and whether these attitudes might differ depending on people’s sex (males or females). We administered a collective-style questionnaire survey to university students (N=107, 46 men and 61 women, mean age=20.11, SD=1.04) in Japan. We adopted a three-way between-subjects survey design; gender-role attitudes (traditional or equal) x managers (male condition or female condition) x participants’ sex (male or female). The results indicated that the participants’ gender-role attitudes had a more substantial effect on evaluating female managers than the participants’ gender. People with liberal gender-role attitudes had a highly positive perception of female leaders, whereas those with traditional gender-role attitudes considered female leaders more strictly. The results of this study indicated that gender-role attitudes do not affect the assessment of male leaders, suggesting that individual values might not affect the evaluation of male leaders. In contrast, these variables affected the assessment of female leaders. Therefore, we concluded that gender-role attitudes are essential for promoting the psychological acceptance of women leaders, which suggests the need to develop personnel with egalitarian gender-role attitudes to increase and popularize women managers in Japanese society.
Exploring Libyan Higher Education Institutions Employees’ Information Security Policy Awareness
Authors: Ahmed Aisha Aissa Ali , Abas Hafiza
Published: October 2024

Incidents of data breach in higher education could harm students since the exposure of sensitive student data (e.g., social security numbers) could twist students into victims of identity theft and endanger their identities. Regrettably, while most of the developed countries have standard information security laws apply to higher education institutions, such laws are still in its infant stage in developing countries like Libya. However, there are established policies documented by Libyan authorities to guide employees against information security breach, yet existing higher education institutions’ information security awareness models did not investigate these policies into the awareness programs. Consequently, employees will rely on policies that can subvert the security best practice. This study aimed to explore the level of understanding of Libyan information security policies among employees of higher education institutions. The quantitative technique is applied in this research, 196 employees of Libyan higher education institutions were randomly surveyed to respond to Linker information security policy awareness questionnaire. Using SPSS statistics tools, a descriptive analysis of the data is achieved. The findings of the study revealed that employees of Libyan higher education institutions are much aware of Internet Usage and Workstation security policies.
Behind the Bench: Power Dynamics in the Supreme Court of the United States Through the Lens of Construal Level
Authors: Chang Mykaela L.
Published: October 2024

Power dynamics exist among the nine justices on the Supreme Court. Through the lens of construal level, the justices’ psychological distance can indicate power, which can ultimately affect the decision-making process on case deliberation. This research examines power dynamics arising from tenure, gender, and political ideology of the justices, and the type of opinion written, through language conveyed in written opinions. I find that tenure, gender and political ideology have some association with abstraction, certainty, positive affect and/or future orientation, suggesting that justices have predictable behavioral implications stemming from their power level. Results for the type of opinions show significance for the opposite prediction, with concurring and dissenting opinions exhibiting more abstract, certain and positive. Exploring power dynamics among the justices helps to unpack the decision-making process in the High Court.
Living Free from Personal Debt: A Possibility or A Mere Wish?
Authors: Fonkem Beryl Ngum
Published: October 2024

The steady growth in personal debt over the years in the United States is beginning to raise concerns because people are slowly drowning in debt, and it is taking a huge toll on their everyday lives, their relationships, and their mental health. People are increasingly getting stressed, anxious, and depressed because the debts are overwhelming, and the payments are becoming difficult because of growing inflation and high interest rates. 8 out of every 10 adult Americans are reportedly drowning in debt, and it cuts across young adults to older adults who are retiring with debts. Debt is generally categorized as good debt and bad debt – good debt (student loans, business loans, and mortgages) is owed on things that will build wealth in the future, while bad debt (auto loans, credit cards, personal loans, payday loans) hardly improves one’s financial stability. This paper examines how possible it is to become debt-free and establishes that it is a journey that requires some level of discipline and positivity and will take a while to accomplish for anyone who is determined to get out of debt.