bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Organizational Absorptive Capacity on Business Intelligence Systems Output in Strategic Management Perspective
Authors: Butcher Michael , Lewis Sylvia
Published: February 2024

The last decade has witnessed accelerated growth in investment in business intelligence (BI) systems. We still lack, however, a clear view as to when a particular system should be preferred over the others. This paper examines the role of the BI use for enhancing an organizational absorptive capacity (ACAP) for knowledge creation and proposes a model to investigate its direct effects on further firm’s performance. We collected survey data from 150 experts and decision-makers at the organizational level from several industries. For data analysis, we followed the general coding, aggregation and synthesis process with the use of the qualitative data analysis software. The results from the Partial Least Squares — Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) demonstrated that the BI use relates significantly to ACAP enhancement, thus fostering knowledge creation. Moreover, information quality and system quality are positively linked with BI use at the organizational level. The results demonstrate that organizational ACAP is critical to establishing appropriate technology infrastructure and to assimilating BI systems for organizational efficiency. Accordingly, the core contribution of the research provided a more comprehensive framework that serves managers and strategic professionals to assist them in classifying their ACAP measures before attempting to purchase state of the art BI systems with a high amount of expenditures. Instead, they should pay attention to the nature of use considering it as a very important determinant of the BI use and reconcile the nature of the use with the intended organizational benefits. Second, the mediation role of the BI use supports the notion that managers should carefully opt for both high system quality and information quality of the installed BI systems. This raises trust in BI and prevents managers from reverting to intuitive decision-making and the underuse of BI.
Business Models Construction at SMEs Level from the Point of View of Strategic Management
Authors: Tadesse Kalkidan , Gebru Zelalem , Mugo Edinah
Published: February 2024

Discussion of new approaches and instruments for strategic management and organisation of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is now routine among scholars and policymakers. Despite an expanding set of literature on business modeling, there is little acknowledgment of the SMEs performance in the context of strategic development. This paper aims to detect the business model factors that increase SMEs performance. Thus, we reveal how decision-makers perceive the strategic management process and manage strategic risks within it. To achieve this goal, the asymmetric configu-rational theorizing and methodology are applied. The research brings into perspective that SME owners and managers have to pay more attention to managerial ties for supporting business model innovation. Developing a dynamic view of business model innovation is also important for understanding of dynamics in the open innovation networks. This challenge therefore calls for further studies on how strategic management should feature in the development of SMEs.
migração como forma-de-vida
Authors: Rodrigues da Cruz Maria Lucia
Published: February 2024

O presente artigo perfaz uma imersão no campo da linguagem, pensando o conceito de forma-de-vida numa dimensão política no campo das migrações. Para isso, recorremos aos trabalhos de Giorgio Agamben, especialmente as obras Homo Sacer: o poder soberano e a vida nua (1995), Altíssima Pobreza: regras monásticas e forma de vida (2011), O uso dos corpos (2017). Procedemos um caminho metodológico fundado numa análise interpretativa dessas obras. Assim, argumentamos que a migração pode ser compreendida enquanto forma-de-vida. Nesse sentido, finalmente, estabelecemos uma relação entre o conceito de formas-de-vida e a temática das migrações, almejando radicalizar determinada ruptura dos limites normativos presentes na linguagem da política atual – que apenas tem se preocupado em realizar a captura biopolítica das vidas, separando-as de suas formas.
Karen Bakker, «The sounds of life: how digital technology is bringing us closer to the worlds of animals and plants», Princeton University Press, Princeton and Oxford 2022, 354 pp.
Authors: Macrì Saverio
Published: February 2024

Recensione del volume «The sounds of life: how digital technology is bringing us closer to the worlds of animals and plants» (Princeton University Press, 2022) di Karen Bakker.
"Non, vous n’êtes pas coupable"
Authors: Zaccaro Giulia
Published: February 2024

Questo articolo si propone di interrogare il rapporto di Paul Ricoeur con la psicoanalisi, e in particolare il suo allontanamento da Freud. Il pensiero freudiano per Ricoeur rimarrebbe vittima di quella "cultura della colpa" che egli pretende di decostruire. Ricoeur si rivolge, da un certo punto in poi del suo itinerario filosofico, non più alla teoria ma all'esperienza psicoanalitica e alla relazione di transfert, soprattutto per quanto riguarda il lavoro del lutto e della melanconia. A partire da questo cambio di passo, muovendoci verso quella che il filosofo chiama "cultura della compassione", ci siamo proposti di interrogare altri stili analitici, in primo luogo quello di Sandor Ferenczi, chiedendo a noi stessi e a Ricoeur quale ruolo possano ricoprire le risorse affettive della bontà, della compassione e del riconoscimento reciproco all'interno di un trattamento analitico con pazienti vittime di traumi infantili.
«Unearthing the divine horrors»
Authors: Restelli Francesca
Published: February 2024

This study looks into H. P. Lovecraft’s masterful craft of cosmic horror, examining his adept fusion of Christian cosmological elements with subversion and mockery, while concurrently forging a unique cosmic framework. Lovecraft subtly weaves Christian themes into his mythos, introducing his eldritch terrors, deities reminiscent of Christian demonology. These entities, residing in abyssal depths, bear distinctly demonic attributes, highlighting the profound influence of Christian cosmology. The enigmatic entity Dagon, rooted in biblical mythology, is a focal point. Its appearances correlate with catastrophic consequences and the underworld, subverting Christian narratives and invoking a sense of dread through an alternative lens. Lovecraft strategically manipulates Christian celebrations, such as May-Eve and All-Hallows, challenging their significance and intensifying readers’ religious discomfort. Lovecraft’s cosmic framework is non-anthropocentric, portraying an indifferent universe inhabited by ancient cosmic entities beyond human comprehension. However, he alludes to an impending chaos, drawing subtle parallels with the biblical Apocalypse. Lovecraft’s narratives interweave Christian cosmology, subversion, and mockery, challenging religious frameworks while invoking terror and fascination, providing a rich tapestry for scholarly analysis in cosmic horror literature.
Pixels and columns: tracing the symbiotic evolution of digital graphics and contemporary architecture
Authors:   Department of Art, Islamic Azad University Central Tehran Branch, Iran, ARMAN MEHR Aria
Published: February 2024

Technological advancements have rewritten the perspective and functionality of all fields, including art and architecture. This paper delves into the evolution of the symbiotic relationship between digital graphics and contemporary architecture, highlighting their profound impact on architectural representation, design processes, and visual communication. By tracing the historical development of digital graphics in architecture, from initial implementations to the transformative effects of Computer-Aided Design (CAD), we examine how digital graphics have reshaped architectural representation techniques, empowering architects to create realistic renders, animations, and virtual reality applications. The integration of digital graphics into architects' design workflows, especially through parametric design and algorithmic tools, enables the realization of dynamic, responsive architectural forms. Through case studies of iconic structures, the pivotal role of digital graphics in shaping architectural projects is demonstrated. Furthermore, we explore the influence of architectural aesthetics on digital graphics in various industries, such as video games and advertising, emphasizing the importance of ethical considerations in the responsible representation and marketing of architecture. Looking to the future, upcoming technological advancements, including augmented and virtual reality, real-time rendering, and generative design, are predicted to steer architectural innovation and redefine the future of digital design. The seamless interplay between pixels and columns will continue to inspire architects to create innovative, sustainable, and visually striking architectural experiences for future generations.
Assessment of Rice Husk-Based Activated Carbon as Adsorbent in Domestic Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Ojedele Michael Oluwadamilare , Ojo Ochuko Mary , Abe Hephzibah Ayomide
Published: February 2024

Indiscriminate discharge of wastewater into the environment is of utmost concern, especially in developing countries. This study evaluated the efficiency of rice husk based activated carbon in wastewater samples harvested from a students’ hostel and a restaurant within the Federal University of Technology, Akure. The adsorbent used was produced from rice husk using hydrogen tetraoxosulphate (VI) acid (H2SO4) as the activating agent. The aim of this study was to assess rice husk-activated carbon for the reduction of physicochemical parameters such as hardness, pH, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), dissolved oxygen (DO), total dissolved solid (TDS), total suspended solid (TSS), and heavy metals which include chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), manganese (Mn), and iron (Fe). The wastewater samples were treated using activated rice hush ash of particle size (180 µm) at four different doses (30, 35, 40, 45 grams/400 ml). The results showed that the different doses of activated carbon had different removal efficiency. It was observed that the optimum dosage was 40g for DO, COD, BOD, and TDS while 30g was optimum for Hardness. It was also observed that an increase in the concentration of rice husk adsorbent led to an increase in the removal efficiency for the heavy metals (Cr, Mn, Pb, and Fe). The maximum percentage removal of DO, COD, BOD, TDS, and TSS, with rice husk was 21%, 58%, 72%, 21%, and 57% respectively. After the treatment of the domestic wastewater and comparing with the WHO standard, the treated wastewater quality was found to be safe for direct discharge into surface water bodies and irrigation purposes.
Freight Mode Choice with Public Data from the United States
Authors: Eissa Taleb , Mesa-Arango Rodrigo , Yahia Hussin A.M , Alghamdi Saeed
Published: February 2024

This paper investigates the selection of freight modes by shippers that require transportation for their shipments. A discrete choice multinomial logit model is used to understand the connectivity and integration between mode-choice and the regional socioeconomic environment. The 2012 Commodity Flow Survey and United States Census Bureau data are public sources used to estimate the corresponding model. Analytical results indicate that shipment characteristics, commodity and industry types, and regional socioeconomic attributes provide an enhanced representation of the economic linkages that determine mode choice at the regional level. Meaningful discussion and guidance is provided to understand this complex process.
Constitutional Disobedience Peninjauan Kembali Lebih Dari Satu Kali Dalam Sistem Peradilan Pidana
Authors: Pravidjayanto Rafi
Published: February 2024

Putusan Mahkamah Konstitusi No. 34/PUU-XI/2013 telah meruntuhkan tembok limitatif terhadap upaya hukum Peninjauan Kembali yang boleh dilakukan lebih dari satu kali atas pertimbangan adanya bukti (Novum) baru. Dimana sebelumnya Peninjauan Kembali secara tegas diatur dan dilimitasi oleh Pasal 268 KUHAP yang menyatakan dalam sistem peradilan pidana, Peninjauan Kembali hanya dapat dilakukan maksimal 1 (satu) kali. Hal ini mendapatkan reaksi dari Mahkamah Agung melalui Surat Edaran Mahkamah Agung (SEMA) No. 7 Tahun 2014 tentang Pengajuan Permohonan Peninjauan Kembali dalam perkara pidana yang sama lebih dari 1 (satu) kali tidak dapat diterima. Mahkamah Konstitusi dalam putusannya mengedepankan keadilan, sedangkan Mahkamah Agung dalam SEMA mengedepankan kepastian hukum. Adanya pertentangan tersebut memunculkan adanya indikasi pembangkangan terhadap konstitusi (constitutional disobedience), serta memberikan ketidakpastian pada pencari keadilan. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode normatif dengan pendekatan Critical Legal Studies, Perundang-undangan, dan Konseptual. Sehingga memberikan hasil berupa hasil bentuk constitutional disobedience dalam putusan Mahkamah Konstitusi serta arah pengaturan terkait peninjauan kembali berbasis keadilan proporsional.
Analisis Pemberian Keringanan Hukuman Terhadap Justice Collaborator Perspektif Fiqh Jinayah
Authors: Ilma Hutmi Amivia , Nabila Maharani
Published: February 2024

Banyaknya kejahatan yang terjadi yang melibatkan individu atau sekelompok orang yang memiliki kekuasaan atau koneksi yang besar mengakibatkan ciutnya nyali masyarakat untuk melaporkan kejahatan yang terjadi kepada penegak hukum. Hal tersebut disebabkan karena adanya kekhawatiran terhadap keselamatan akan dirinya dan juga orang disekitar. Dengan demikian, aparat penegak hukum harus melibatkan seseorang atau lebih tersangka yang ikut serta dalam kejahatan tersebut sebagai saksi atau yang biasa disebut sebagai justice collaborator dengan memberikan jaminan berupa pengurangan hukuman sebagai bentuk penghargaan. Berdasarkan pada hal tersebut, tumbuh rasa ketertarikan penulis untuk melakukan analisa mengenai bagaimana pandangan hukum Islam atau fiqh jinayah terhadap perlindungan saksi dan korban, khususnya perlindungan bagi seorang saksi pelaku atau justice collaborator yang telah bersedia melakukan kerjasama dengan para penegak hukum guna membongkar kejahatan yang telah dilakukan. Penelitian ini termasuk pada penelitian normatif serta dalam pengumpulan datanya menggunakan teknik studi pustaka. Berdasarkan analisis yang dilakukan, dapat dipahami bahwa pada dasarnya Islam telah mempunyai konsep yang lebih jelas dan sempurna mengenai kewajiban yang sudah seharusnya dijalankan oleh seorang saksi sebagai upaya dalam mengungkap kebenaran dari suatu kasus. Hukum Islam juga telah menjelaskan mengenai akibat apa yang akan ditanggung oleh seorang saksi apabila memberi kesaksian palsu.
Reproductive Performance of Buffalo-heifers under Stressful condition
Authors: Hussein Fekry , Metwally Kamal , Nemr Hazem
Published: February 2024

The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of thermal stress on the reproductive efficiency of buffalo heifers. This study was carried out on 100 buffalo heifers, during two different environmental seasons (winter and summer). Heifers were mature, free from pathological and congenital affections, and fed on balanced rations. Animals were divided into two groups (25 per each) and each group was divided into two subgroups. In addition, 10 buffalo heifers were kept indoors as a control group in a closed building and 15 heifers kept outdoors exposed to direct environmental stress (ambient temperature and humidity). Temperature humidity index (THI) was calculated. Estrus synchronization using two doses of PGF2α 11 days' interval was carried out. Heifers were examined by ultrasonography per rectum and blood samples were collected on the 1st and 15th day of the synchronized estrous cycle to accurate detection of progesterone, estrogen, cortisol, and glucose. Mating was done naturally using fertile buffalo bulls introduced to heifers after the 2nd PGF2α injection. Pregnancy diagnosis was carried out through ultrasonography and conception rates were determined. The results indicated that THI outdoors was significantly higher than indoors in the summer season and not significantly different during winter. Blood levels of estradiol, progesterone and glucose were lower during summer when compared to winter season, while cortisol levels were higher. Also, conception rates were significantly higher indoors than outdoors during winter and summer seasons. respectively. In conclusion, environmental stress resulted in lowering reproductive performance in buffalo heifers, especially in the summer season, and indoor housing significantly improved reproduction.
Evaluation of Cutoff Point Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) and Prostate Specific Antigen Density (PSAD) in Patients with Suspected Prostate Cancer
Authors: Daryanto Besut , Trianto Rizal , Seputra Kurnia , Purnomo Athaya
Published: February 2024

Background: Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men worldwide. There is no national standard for PSA cut-off levels even through the transrectal prostate biopsy procedure causes many serious complications such as bleeding, infection, and sepsis. Therefore, determining cut-off levels for PSA and PSAD is essential to avoid unnecessary biopsies. Objective: This study aims to determine the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) and Prostate Specific Antigen Density (PSAD) cut-off points in patients with suspected prostate cancer. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted from January 2018 until March 2021 in Saiful Anwar General Hospital Malang Indonesia. Inclusion criterias were patients with suspected prostate cancer; > 50 years old; underwent PSA, PSAD, and prostate biopsy. Exclusion criterias were patients refuse to participate in the study and incomplete patient medical record data. Medical records from 53 patients who underwent transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS)-guided prostate biopsy were reviewed. Statistical analysis was performed using Mann-Whitney U, Chi-Square, Fisher’s Exact, and Receiver Operator Characteristic (ROC) curves. Results and Discussion: Medical records conducted 53 patients who met inclusion criteria and underwent transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS)-guided prostate biopsy were reviewed. PSA cut off level for prostate biopsy was 19.71 ng/ml with a sensitivity of 69.23% and a specificity of 72.5%. The positive predictive value is 45% and the negative predictive value is 87.87%. PSAD cut off level for prostate biopsy was 0.4113 with a sensitivity of 61.54% and a specificity of 63.16%. The positive predictive value is 36.36% and the negative predictive value is 82.76%. Conclusion: Results from this study, the cut off levels of PSA and PSAD in prostate disease patients is higher than the recommended cut off; prostate cancer is the largest malignancy in men worldwide and has a higher incidence in the older age and high serum PSA levels group.
Chordoma of the Oropharynx
Authors: Ramas Almedina , Kasumovic Merima , Uscupsic Sabrina , Mujic Majda , Tokic Lejla
Published: February 2024

Background: Chordoma is a rare malignant neoplasm that predominantly arises from the axial skeleton, but can also develop in unusual locations. However, there are also rare cases of „NOS“ chordoma involving the oropharyx and epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma of the parotid gland in the same patient. According to contemporary research, chordoma is a rare malignant neoplasm that arises from the embryonic remnants of the notochord. and typically involves the clivus, sacrococcygeal bones or vertebrae. Studies have shown that the incidence of chordoma has been estimated to be one per one million people per year. Chordoma can occur at any age, but most commonly it is diagnosed in the 40–60 year old age group with the male predominance. Objective: The aim of this article was to review the case of a 74-year-old female patient with epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma of the parotid gland and a case of „NOS“ chordoma involving the oropharyx. Methods: Diagnostic methods were used to examine a female patient with two primary malignant tumors: CT neck scan, CT of paranasal sinuses, ultrasound examination, scintigraphy and operative finding. Case presentzation: Due to the anatomy complexity, complete resection of the tumor through a transoral-transpharyngeal approach was not possible. Intraoperative palpation of the mass revealed well defined submucosal lesion 20x43x46mm beginning at the level of the oro- and hypopharynx and extending superiorly to the nasopharynx, and posteriorly into the spinal canal and intervertebral foramen causing near complete occlusion of the oro and hypopharynx. The patient also underwent extracapsular dissection of the parotid tumor. Postoperative palliative radiotherapy was performed. Conclusion: Surgical treatment remains the mainstay of treatment for EMC and radiation is imperative for patients who refuse surgery and for those with advanced or inoperable diseases.
Unveiling complexity: Chest wall swelling manifestation of extramedullary myeloma
Authors: Motka Shrinil , Varsat Maulik , Patel Keyurkumar
Published: February 2024

There are two forms of myeloma: Solitary plasmacytoma and multiple myeloma. Both are malignant tumors and develop from bone marrow plasma cells, which secrete immunoglobulins. Pleural effusion secondary to myeloma is extremely rare, with an incidence of 1–2%. A 58-year-old man presented to the emergency department with a chief complaint of swelling and pain over the left side of his chest, breathlessness, generalized weakness, abdominal pain, and blood in his stool for 15 days. The chest X-ray posteroanterior view showed well-defined homogenous opacity in the left hemithorax. The patient underwent ultrasound-guided left-sided thoracocentesis. Pleural fluid was exudative, and cytology showed the presence of malignant cells. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography of the thorax and abdomen showed a well-defined soft-tissue density lesion involving the left posteriolateral chest wall with underlying rib erosion. For confirmation of malignant etiology, a USG-guided transthoracic needle biopsy was performed. A biopsy revealed a malignant round cell tumor in a histopathological review. For confirmation, a tissue sample was sent for immunohistochemistry markers, which had positivity for CD 138 and MUM 1, consistent with myeloma. Rarely, MM can present as chest wall swelling. Ultrasound is an easily available diagnostic modality that can be used for chest wall biopsy with a minimal incidence of complications.
Assessment of heart rate variability among healthy 1st year medical students in a Government Medical College of Kolkata: A cross-sectional observational study
Authors: Mitra Krishnachura , Rakshit Shuvojyoti , Banerjee Tanmoy , Das Maumita
Published: February 2024

Background: Heart rate variability (HRV) means the beat-to-beat variations of cardiac rhythm which is influenced by the interplay of sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves. At present, cardiovascular morbidity and mortality have become a matter of great concern in the young population. Such complications may arise from cardiac dysautonomia. HRV analysis may be considered an efficient tool to detect this derangement as early as possible. Moreover, normative data on HRV should be established among the young population of India considering other demographic parameters such as gender, height, weight, and BMI.

Aim and Objective: Our study intends to establish normative data for short-term HRV parameters among medical students of a tertiary care hospital in West Bengal.

Materials and Methods: After obtaining approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee, 250 apparently healthy medical students were assessed and HRV parameters such as mean RR, mean HR, SDNN, NN50, pNN50, root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD), high frequency (HF), low frequency (LF), and LF/HF ratio were recorded.

Results: In time domain parameters, values were significantly higher in males for mean HR and significantly higher in females for mean RR, NN50, and pNN50. In frequency domain parameters, significantly higher values were found for LF and LF/HF ratio in males and HF in females.

Conclusion: We have established gender-based normative values of HRV parameters in the young population.
Effect of aerobic exercise on cognition in elderly persons with mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Khattak Hafsah , Ahmad Zahoor , Arshad Hafsah , Anwar Kinza
Published: February 2024

Objective: To determine the effect of aerobic exercise on cognition in elderly persons with mild cognitive impairment.
Methodology: This randomized controlled trial was conducted at Physiotherapy Rehabilitation center of NCS University, Swabi Campus. The inclusion criteria were age group between 60 to 70 years, MMSE 18-23 and able to walk independently without use of assistive device. Those with musculoskeletal disorders, current medical condition for which exercise was contraindicated, had cardiac and respiratory disorders were excluded from the study. A sample of 60 patients were randomly divided into experimental and control group using sealed envelope technique. Treatment for the experimental group was moderate intensity aerobic exercise program i.e., walking and control group received active range of motion exercises and stretching 5days/week for 6 weeks. Control group performed gentle active range of motion exercises and stretching exercises to large muscle groups of lower limb and trunk muscles for 5-7 cycles of 10 repetitions for 20 mins for 5 days/week and training was continued for 6 weeks. MMSE, MoCA, Trail making Test A and B were done at baseline and after 6 weeks of intervention.
Results: Of the 75 patients assessed, 60 were included; of them there were 30 in each group. Mean age was 62.49±1.82years. There were 35(56.5%) males and 24 (38.7%) females. Intra-group analysis showed significant improvement in outcomes measures MMSE, MoCA, TMT-A and B after six weeks of intervention in aerobic training group (p<0.05). Inter-group analysis showed significant differences in scores of neurocognitive measures (p<0.05) after six weeks of training.
Conclusion: Aerobic exercise showed improvement in neurocognitive domains of elderly persons with mild cognitive impairment after 6 weeks of intervention.
Evaluation of Roles of Nurses' Regarding Tracheostomy Care: From Intensive Care Unit Knowledge and Practice, A randomized cross-sectional study
Authors: Ebrahim Elturabi
Published: February 2024

Objectives: To evaluate the nurses' roles in tracheostomy care in intensive care unit at our center.
Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Aljazeera state hospital in Sudan from 23 December 2022 to 1st March 2023. It included 80 nurses who regularly performed tracheostomy care. They were given questionnaires and check lists about tracheostomy care.
Results: Total of 80 nurses participated in the study. Age was between 38-48 years. About half were female, and half had Bachelor degree. It was found that nearly 62% had poor knowledge of tracheostomy care.. There was relationship between variables and general information.
Conclusion: Our findings indicate the nurses perform poorly when it comes to providing tracheostomy care. Education and training can help providers feel more knowledgeable and confident about managing the care of patients who have tracheostomies
Three models of primary dysmenorrhea via estradiol benzoate and oxytocin induction: an experimental study
Authors: Lestariningsih Sri , Tamtomo Didik , Sulistyowati Sri , Indarto Dono , Subadi Imam
Published: February 2024

Objective: To evaluate the PGF2 profile and its association with symptoms in several models of primary dysmenorrhea.
Methodogy: The rats were placed into four groups, each with ten rats: control, primary dysmenorrhea 1 (PD1), primary dysmenorrhea 2 (PD2), and primary dysmenorrhea 3 (PD3). The pain as main dysmenorrhea symptom was assessed by observing writhing latency and frequency. The enzyme linked immunosorbent assay method was used to evaluate PGF2 levels in serum. Using hematoxyline eosin staining, the uterus was examined histopathologically. Results: The PD3 model had writhing characteristics, PGF2 levels, and degree of inflammation that are comparable to the PD2 model.
Conclusions: Our proposed PD model has clinical and biomolecular and histopathological characteristics comparable to existing models. Thus, this new model can be an alternative for modeling primary dysmenorrhea.
Serum vitamin D associates inversely with LDL cholesterol levels in Nigella sativa supplemented women
Authors: Qahwaji Dina
Published: February 2024

Objective: To investigate the variations and associations of serum LDL cholesterol and vitamin D (vitD) before and after the administration of Nigella sativa in women.
Methodology: The study included 120 women with age range 51-60 years having LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) values of 90-120 mg/dL. They were supplemented with equal daily doses (1 gram/day) of the powder of Kalonji/Nigella sativa (NS) for 12 weeks. Serum LDL-C and vitD were determined pretreatment (PRT) and posttreatment (PST).
Results: The levels of LDL-C, PRT vs. LDL-C, PST had highly significant difference. The results for VitD, PRT vs. VitD, PST indicated nonsignificant difference. The plot of LDL-C and vitD in PRT showed a weak and nonsignificant negative linear correlation. However, the plot of LDL-C and vitD in PST was strong and highly significant negative linear correlation.
Conclusion: Administration of N. sativa showed mean decreased level of serum LDL-C and increase in vitD levels in women. However, further studies in healthy subjects and patients having various hyperlipidemic and other related disorders would be helpful for elucidating the diagnostic and therapeutic significance of NS.
Impact of lifestyle modification on nonalcoholic fatty liver with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Lindarto Dharma , Darmadi Darmadi , Sazli Brama
Published: February 2024

Prediabetes is characterized by impaired glucose uptake and insulin sensitivity in the muscle, as well as a significant risk of developing diabetes, chronic renal disease, cardiovascular disease, and death. A definite bidirectional connection exists between pre-diabetes, diabetes, and NAFLD. The presence of NAFLD is associated with the subsequent development of new-onset type 2 diabetes (T2DM). There was a 6-fold rise in new-onset diabetes in people whose fatty liver severity progressed from mild to moderate or severe over 5 years, and a decrease in T2DM incidence comparable to that in those without steatosis. Insulin resistance is a common pathophysiological mechanism across metabolic illnesses, including prediabetes, diabetes, and NAFLD. As a result, better names for metabolically linked metabolic fatty liver disease have been considered.
Lifestyle is the cornerstone of treatment for patients with prediabetes, T2DM, and NAFLD. Several significant randomized controlled trials show that a customized low-calorie meal plan and behavioral change are highly effective in preventing or delaying prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, and improving other cardiometabolic markers (such as blood pressure, lipids, and inflammation). Several drugs already approved for the treatment of prediabetes and diabetes are beneficial for NAFLD/NASH.
Impact of a community-based family planning education program on married women's knowledge of contraception methods
Authors: Sagiron Elwaleed
Published: February 2024

Objective: To assess the impact of a family planning education program on the knowledge of family planning methods among married women in Sudan.
Methodology: This quasi-experimental study included 456 married women. Data were collected using a questionnaire consisting of 30 questions covering different aspects of family planning. Participants were divided into experimental and control groups, and pre-and post-tests were conducted to determine the effect of the educational program.
Results: The study found that overall knowledge of family planning methods significantly increased from 40% to 85% after educational program (p=0.5). There was significant increase of knowledge of participants regarding meaning of family planning and characteristics of natural methods, hormonal methods, and mechanical methods.
Conclusion: A family planning education program significantly increases married women's knowledge of family planning methods in Sudan. It is recommended to increase awareness of mothers regarding family planning by different means of mass of social media like TV and Radio.
A Systematic Review on inequalities in access to mental healthcare services in low and middle-income countries
Authors: Albarqi Hasan , Aqeli Ali , Alsaati Marwan , Alsaadawi Mansour , Basubrain Mohammed , Elessawi Lama
Published: February 2024

Objective: To identify health inequalities of access to health services for mental health patients in low and middle-income countries.
Methodology: This systematic review was conducted through electronic article search on three journal databases: PubMed, ProQuest and CINAHL Plus with full texts. Additional search was done through Google Scholar and list of references. The articles were selected based on specific criteria and keenly read for quality of information and internal validity. Articles published within the last 10 years (2013-2023) with full-access were included.
Results: A total of 4064 articles were retrieved, out of which, 17 were included as eligible. The studies were conducted in various low and middle-income countries, including Brazil, South Africa, Nigeria, Uganda, Kenya, India, Nepal, Ethiopia, Liberia, Surabaya, Rwanda, Jordan, Pakistan, Iran, and Mexico. Twelve studies applied quantitative methods, seven applied qualitative approach and one study used mixed research methodology. Three categories of health inequalities were identified: biological, including gender, age, and comorbidities; social, including race, culture, stigma, trust, family support, fear, attitude, economic status, and literacy-related variables; and structural, including place of residence, distance, accessibility, and availability of the services.
Conclusion: Stigma from social norms lead the inequalities in access to mental healthcare services in developing countries.
Attitude and practices of female blood donors toward blood donation at Al-Baha University, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Mohammed Badria , Elbashir Amira , Amrosy Sabah , Mahmoud Samar , Gabr Wessam , Alharbi Hanan
Published: February 2024

Objective: To evaluate the attitudes and behaviors of female blood donors at Al Baha University in Saudi Arabia.
Methodology: This descriptive study was conducted in March 2022 among female blood donors at Al Baha University, Saudi Arabia. It included 147 female blood donors. The data were collected by interview questionnaire which was composed of demographic characteristics section and attitude and practice section. The data were analyzed by SPSS version 22.
Results: The average age of female blood donors was 29.2±7.4 years, and 29.3% of them donated blood previously while 85.7% were willing to donate. About 36.1 perceived their health status as excellent and 74.1% believed that they were eligible for donation. We found that 66.0% of participants had neutral attitude, 28.6% had good attitude and 5.4% poor attitude toward blood donation. The practice of female students at Al Baha University was high since 83% of recruited participants donated blood. Moreover, the education, residence and source of information of blood donors were significantly associated with blood donors’ attitude, while practice of blood donation was significantly influenced by perceived healthy status of participants. There was a significant correlation between good attitude toward blood donation and practicing the donation among female blood donors at Al Baha University, Saudi Arabia.
Conclusions: The female blood donors at Al Baha University had good or neutral attitude toward blood donation. Their attitude was significantly affected by education, residence and source of information, while the donation of blood was significantly influenced by perceived healthy status of participants. There was a significant correlation between good attitude toward blood donation and practicing the donation.
Predictors of academic achievement in distance learning for Sudanese nursing students
Authors: Elhusein Amal
Published: February 2024

Objective: To investigate the factors that influence undergraduate Sudanese nursing students' academic achievement.
Methods: An online survey was conducted among 235 Sudanese nursing students using several scales and questionnaires to assess cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains of academic achievement, self-regulated learning (S.R.L.), engagement, academic stress, and grade point average (GPA). A hierarchical multiple linear regression model was used to identify the predictors of academic achievement.
Results: Academic achievement was significantly correlated with SRL (r = 0.588, p<0.001), engagement in distance learning (r = 0.476, p < 0.001), academic stress (r = 0.355, p<0.001), and GPA (r = 0.162, p=0.02). No significant correlation was found between academic achievement level and demographic or learning experience variables, participating in a learning support program, voluntary study meetings, and receiving learning counseling. Engagement in distance learning and SRL were identified as significant predictors of academic achievement, with adjusted R2 values of 0.216 and 0.377, respectively.
Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of engagement in distance learning and SRL among Sudanese nursing students in the context of distance learning. The nursing institutions need to develop effective strategies to enhance students' engagement and SRL skills to promote academic success in distil learning.
The Effect Of Population Size And Number Of Motor Vehicles On Local Tax Revenue With GRDP As A Moderating Variable
Authors: Praja Rama Bhaskara , Wijaya Suparna
Published: February 2024

Local taxes play a crucial role in advancing a region. Besides financing local government expenditures, local taxes also enable regional governments to create greater fiscal autonomy, providing flexibility in fund allocation. However, the contribution of local taxes to regional revenue remains relatively small, at only 38%. Therefore, it is essential to identify factors influencing local tax revenues across all provinces in Indonesia to optimize local tax revenue. This research employs linear regression with generalized least square (GLS). The results indicate that the population size, the number of motorized vehicles, Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP), interaction between population size and GRDP, and interaction between the number of motor vehicles and GRDP, have a significant effect on local tax revenues simultaneously. However, partially, the population size does not affect local tax revenues. On the other hand, the number of motor vehicles and GRDP positively influence local tax revenues. Furthermore, the moderation regression analysis reveals that GRDP strengthens the influence of the population size on local tax revenues. Conversely, the interaction between GRDP and the number of motor vehicles shows that GRDP weakens the positive effect of the number of motor vehicles on local tax revenues.
Factors Affecting The Local Taxes Revenue By Provincial Governments In Indonesia
Authors: Zulfi Muhammad Ramadhan , Wijaya Suparna
Published: February 2024

This study aims to investigate the influence of regional gross domestic product (GDP), population size, and the poverty rate on the local tax revenues of Indonesian provincial governments. Secondary data from the publications of the Central Statistics Agency (Badan Pusat Statistik) covering a 5-year period from 2016 to 2020 were utilized for this research. The study focuses on 34 provinces in Indonesia. The research employs panel data regression with the panel-generalized least squares model. The findings indicate that regional GDP has a positive and significant impact on the local tax revenues of provincial governments. An increase in the population size also positively and significantly affects the local tax revenues. Conversely, a rise in the percentage of the population living in poverty has a negative and significant effect on local tax revenues of provincial governments. The simultaneous influence of regional GDP, population size, and the poverty rate on local tax revenues is also significant. To promote higher local tax revenues, the government should encourage economic growth in the regions and invest in enhancing the quality of human resources. This approach would lead to increased regional GDP and population, thereby boosting local tax revenues. Furthermore, efforts to reduce poverty levels would raise consumption and income among the population, ultimately contributing to increased local tax revenues.
Shifting From Fear to Self-confidence: Body Mapping as a Transformative Tool in Music Teacher Education
Authors: Griffin Shelley M.
Published: February 2024

Fear and lack of self-confidence toward music teaching are frequently experienced by many Bachelor of Education teacher candidates when they imagine themselves as future elementary general music teachers. Integrating visual art body mapping in elementary music methods fosters a unique opportunity to identify and interrogate musical experience. Findings from a 2-year narrative inquiry reveal how body mapping provides a window into music teacher identity through understanding the role of musical experience in teacher candidates’ daily lives. Body mapping becomes a transformative tool in music teacher education to move teacher candidates from embodied fear to increased self-confidence in shaping future teaching practice.
Relationship between Parenting Style and Children’s Obsessive-compulsive Disorder
Authors: Mostafavi Nazanin
Published: February 2024

Generally, parenting styles are variables that affect behaviors of obsessive- compulsive disorder (OCD). To do so, the present study aimed to examine the relationship between parenting styles with obsessive-compulsive disorder in the students in high schools of Mashhad, Iran. As such, a quantitative methodology in form of a correlational design was employed in this research, which comprised two main variables including parenting styles and Iranian teenagers’ OCD. To address the research objective, 180 teenagers who were students at some schools in Mashhad, Iran, and their parents, completed the study questionnaires which included Baumarind parenting styles Scale (1971) and the Maudsley Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory (2011). The analysis of the data obtained from implementing the questionnaires was performed through SPSS25 software in two sections: descriptive and inferential (Pearson Correlation Coefficient and regression analysis, i.e. ANOVA). The results showed that there was a significant relationship between OCD and the three parenting styles. Also, the relationship between the authoritarian parenting style and the symptoms of OCD (r = -0.79) was significant in a negative way and with 99% certainty (p</01). On the other hand, there was a positive correlation between authoritarian parenting style and OCD (r = 0/60). Finally, there was a positive correlation between permissive parenting style and OCD (r = 0/55). It can be then concluded that parenting styles can strongly predict OCD and determine 0.64 of the OCD.
Plant Growth Regulating Phytohormones: The Potent Targets to Alleviate Abiotic Stress in Crop Plants —A Research Update and the Way Forward
Authors: Roy Anindita
Published: February 2024

The latest modifying models of global climate have changed to be an unadorned threat to the crops production. An extensive scale of biotic and abiotic stresses frequently impacts crop plants because of their stalkless characteristics. Crop plants failures are principally triggered by abiotic factors such as salt, heat, cold, floods, ultraviolet radiation and drought. For dealing with these harsh conditions, well-established mechanisms have been developed in plants, which perform a pivotal role in comprehending stress signals and assisting ideal development responses. Remarkably, the exploitation of plant growth regulating phytohormones for decreasing the adverse effect of abiotic stress has acquired much attention in current decades. For evasion of stress at various levels, including physiological, molecular, and biochemical, an erudite method is informed to be presented by phytohormones. Thus, labeling these phytohormones plays an important function in plant growth and overall development. Phytohormones can progresses tolerance against abiotic stresses by raising seed germination, seedling growth, root growth, leaf photosynthesis and antioxidant enzymes by dropping the accretion of reactive oxygen species, malonaldehyde, and electrolyte outflow. Current findings focus on the important function of a diversity of phytohormones counting, Abscisic acid (ABA), Salicylic acid (SA), Jasmonates (JA) and Ethylene (ET) in the abiotic stress tolerance improvement of crop plants. The contribution of Cytokinins (CKs), and some other novel phytohormones such as Brassinosteroids and Strigolactones in plant development has been acknowledged under normal and stress conditions. Therefore, this review is desired to recap the new progresses in the knowledge associated to phytohormones and their association in abiotic stresses of expectation, signaling, crosstalk, and the response processes. Therefore, such a review will be helpful in improving the pathway for sustainable agriculture development via involvement of phytohormones in improvement of abiotic stress tolerance of the crop plants.
Estimating Heterogeneous Effects of Land Titling on Rural Household’s Agricultural Productivity: Evidence From the Southern Highland Regions of Tanzania
Authors: Mapunda Fausta Marcellus
Published: February 2024

This paper analyses the effect of land titles on agricultural productivity in the southern highland regions of Mbeya and Ruvuma and assesses the potential mediating effect of access to credit. The contribution of this paper to the existing literature is threefold. First, it contributes to the general literature on the impact of land titling on agricultural performance. Second, it investigates whether access to credit is an important mediating variable. Third, it assessed whether households respond differently depending on farmer and land characteristics. To contribute to the evidence on the impact of land titling four hypotheses were tested: Since the study is based on observational data, propensity score matching technique was employ to determine the land titling effects. The findings suggest that land titles have a statistically significant positive effect on productivity. This can at least partially be explained by an increase in credit access for titled households. The study results further suggest heterogeneous effects of titles, which vary with age of the head of household and size of land cultivated.
“It’s complicated…” Social Media and Polish Law Enforcement Agencies’ Relationship
Authors: Waszkiewicz Paweł
Published: February 2024

“It’s complicated…” Social Media and Polish Law Enforcement Agencies’ Relationship

Social media has become an integral part of our social fabric; it is also utilized by law enforcement as both a crime scene under investigation and a tool for investigating offline crimes, often providing valuable evidence. However, there are gaps in our understanding of global social media use, as research has focused primarily on English-speaking countries. This article presents a survey on how Polish police officers and prosecutors use social media in their daily practices. The survey utilized the computer-assisted personal interviews (CAPI) technique to explore the reality of Polish law enforcement. Respondents, consisting of police officers and prosecutors (n = 67 + 116), answered questions about their official and private use of social media. The study aimed to test hypotheses related to age and the official and private use of social media. The results of the survey contradict some expectations. Police officers and prosecutors use social media more frequently than their civilian counterparts. They are often reactive to the actions of criminals, which fits the arms race theory. However, some law enforcement officials have proactive strategies, and their knowledge and skills are exceptional.