bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between Pain and Dementia: The Mediating Effect of Depression among Chinese Elderly
Authors: Duan Wenrong , Huang Jian , Huang Qiuling , Dong Birong
Published: April 2024

Background: Chronic pain poses a significant problem for older adults and may potentially impact cognitive function. This study aimed to examine the cross-sectional relationship between pain severity and cognitive function in elderly individuals residing in the community. Additionally, this study sought to examine the mediating effect of depression on the relationship between pain and dementia.
Methods: The study sample was derived from the 2018 China Health and Aging Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), comprising cross-sectional data from 4559 community residents aged 65 years or older. The primary outcome assessed was the occurrence of dementia, while the main independent variable was pain severity (none, little, somewhat, quite a bit, very). Depression score served as the mediating factor. Chi-square and binary logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the relationship between depression and the occurrence of pain and dementia. An intermediate model was constructed by stepwise regression.
Results: The study indicates a significant association between cognitive impairment and both chronic pain and depressive symptoms in older adults living in China. Individuals who frequently report experiencing pain exhibit a higher likelihood of developing dementia when compared to those who do not report any pain (odds ratio (OR) = 1.72, p < 0.001). Moreover, depressive symptoms significantly mediate the relationship between pain and dementia, with the mediating effect accounting for 65.25%.
Conclusions: Chronic pain not only directly impacts patients' cognitive function but also indirectly exacerbates cognitive impairment through depressive symptoms as a mediating variable. For elderly individuals experiencing depressive symptoms, it is important to provide appropriate psychological treatment in conjunction with pain management strategies.
Feasibility of Using Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Test Biomarkers to Diagnose Alzheimer's Disease: Systematic Evaluation and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wei Bo , Xu Yiqin , Du Ye , Zhou Jie , Zhong Fangfang , Wu Chenglong , Lou Yiping
Published: April 2024

Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia, resulting in impairments in memory, cognition, decision-making, and social skills. Thus, accurate preclinical diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease is paramount. The identification of biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease through magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) represents a novel adjunctive diagnostic approach.
Objective: This study conducted a meta-analysis of the diagnostic results of this technology to explore its feasibility and accuracy.
Methods: PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases were searched without restrictions, with the search period extending up to July 31, 2022. The search strategy employed a combination of subject headings and keywords. All retrieved documents underwent screening by two researchers, who selected them for meta-analysis. The included literature was analyzed using Review Manager 5.4 software, with corresponding bias maps, forest plots, and summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curves generated and analyzed.
Results: A total of 344 articles were retrieved initially, with 11 articles meeting the criteria for inclusion in the analysis. The analysis encompassed data from approximately 1766 patients. In the forest plot, both sensitivity (95% CI) and specificity (95% CI) approached 1. Examining the true positive rate, false positive rate, true negative rate, and false negative rate, all studies on the summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curve clustered in the upper left quadrant, suggesting a very high accuracy of biomarkers detected by MRS for diagnosing Alzheimer's disease.
Conclusion: The detection of biomarkers by MRS demonstrates feasibility and high accuracy in diagnosing AD. This technology holds promise for widespread adoption in the clinical diagnosis of AD in the future.
Solution-Focused Group Counseling on Mental States in Hemodialysis Patients with Anxiety
Authors: Chen Peipei , Lin Dandan
Published: April 2024

Background: Hemodialysis patients usually suffer from anxiety due to physical and social factors, which belongs to a kind of psychological disorder, easily contributing to the decrease of patients' adherence to the treatment, and seriously affecting the patients' health status and quality of life. Solution-focused group counseling (SFGC) is a kind of psychotherapy proven to improve emotional problems in many fields. Still, the application of this therapy is rare in medical situations. This retrospective study aims to analyze the application of SFGC and probe into the effects on mental states in hemodialysis patients with anxiety. 
Methods: From January 2022 to February 2023, 212 patients with hemodialysis and anxiety admitted to our hospital were selected, and 9 patients who did not meet the inclusion criteria were excluded. Finally, 203 patients were included in this retrospective study. According to different clinical management methods, 102 patients receiving routine management were classified as the control group (CG), and 101 patients receiving SFGC on the basis of routine management were included in the observation group (OG). The scores of the self-perceived burden scale (SPBS), medical coping modes questionnaire (MCMQ), and self-rating anxiety scale (SAS) of the two groups were collected. The data collected were calculated and processed by software SPSS 26.0, and the effects of different managements on the mental states of patients with hemodialysis and anxiety were compared. 
Results: After management, the scores of SPBS in both groups were lower than those before management, and the score in OG was significantly lower than the CG (p < 0.001). After management, the confrontation scores increased, the avoidance and resignation scores decreased in the MCMQ of the two groups, and the scores in the OG changed significantly (p < 0.001). The SAS scores of the two groups after management were significantly lower than those before management, and the OG score was significantly lower than the CG (p < 0.001).
Conclusion: SFGC has a positive effect on the mental states of patients with hemodialysis and anxiety, which is worthy of further clinical study.
Rapid Response Unit for Children and Adolescents at Risk of Suicide: Promoting Therapeutic Linkage and Reducing the Risk of Relapse
Authors: Butjosa Anna , Cruz Daniel , Richart Teresa , Ruiz Terradas Maria , Group CCAMH , Lacasa Fernando
Published: April 2024

Introduction: The increase in suicidal behavior among adolescents under 17 years of age in Catalonia between 2019 and 2022 has gone from 473 to 1425 cases, which entails a new healthcare challenge. The objective of the article is to explain the procedure and intervention of the Rapid Response Unit (RRU) for children and adolescents at risk of suicide. The RRU is a multidisciplinary unit designed to prevent relapse and increase link-up to treatment. The cases attended in its 14 months of operation are described.
Methodology: 24 patients, 18 females and 6 males aged between 12 and 17 years, attended for the first time at the Child and Adolescent Health Centre of Cornellà for activation of the Suicide Risk Code (CRS) in hospital emergency departments during the period studied.
Results: After the intervention, high suicidal risk decreased from 29.17% to 0%, medium risk decreased from 37.5% to 20.83% and low risk increased from 33.33% to 79.17%. In addition, there was only one new CRS activation in the 3 months following the first activation. In the RRU, care was intensive: 52.7% of cases with visits once a week and more than once a week in 24.9%. During the intervention months 100% of cases were linked and no interruptions occurred. 
Conclusions: Rapid Response Unit (RRU) decreases the risk of recurrence of suicidal behavior and ensures therapeutic linkage.
Systematic Review on the Relationship between Toxoplasmosis and Mental Disorders
Authors: Bartolomé del Pino Leticia E. , Zanón-Moreno Vicente
Published: April 2024

Background: Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide parasitic zoonosis caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii. In cases of vertical infection, and in immunosuppressed people by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) serious clinical conditions may appear, while immunocompetent people do not present symptoms. However, T. gondii infection has been linked to several mental disorders for decades.
Objective: To substantiate the possible relationship between T. gondii and mental disorders and suggest control and prevention strategies.
Material and Methods: A systematic review has been carried out to analyze the relationship between T. gondii exposure (presence of IgG) and the onset of mental disorders in minors and adults. The etiopathogenic mechanisms described by the authors have also been included and the systems of surveillance, prevention and control of infection have been evaluated.
Results: Several processes linked to the presence of cysts and the reactivation of the parasite in certain situations produce an immune and inflammatory response. Also, direct and indirect actions on different neurotransmitters. These mechanisms, together with other environmental and genetic factors, would predispose to different psychiatric pathologies.
Conclusions: Due to the limits of the study, no conclusions can be drawn in childhood and adolescence. However, the results of this systematic review show a possible association of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and compulsive disorder with T. gondii infection in adults. There is a need to improve control, integrated surveillance and extend prevention measures to the entire population.
The Present Legal Status Regarding the Utilization of Mechanical or Pharmacological Restraints in Psychiatric and Social-Health Settings
Authors: Martin-Fumadó Carles , Pujol-Robinat Amadeo , Arimany-Manso Josep
Published: April 2024

No abstract present.
Blood Flow Rate Of Hemodialysis Patients; A Hospital Based Study
Authors: Khan Yaseen , Ullah Aman , Ahmad Ijaz
Published: April 2024

Background: In chronic renal disease, impaired kidney function hinders waste elimination.Hemodialysis is fundamental for removing creatinine, urea, and excess water. The study explores blood flow rates in hemodialysis patients with chronic renal disease, shedding light on dialytic dynamics in this context.Materials and Methods: A total of 100 patients were selected irrespective of age and gender. All hemodialysis patients were recruited in Institute of Kidney Diseases, Hayatabad,Peshawar. Blood flow rate and demographic information were entered into a performa.Microsoft Excel 2007 was used to enter and analyze data.Results: Out of total, 58.3% and 41.7% were found male and female respectively. Highest number of patients observed in age greater than 55 years. The study revealed varying blood flow rates, with 43.9% at 300 ml/min, highlighting the distribution among hemodialysis patients. Three hours hemodialysis were found frequently among dialysis patients.Conclusion: Despite improvements in dialysis care, challenges such as recirculation, co-morbidities, and nutritional issues persist, emphasizing the need for innovative therapeutic approaches and ongoing research to enhance patient outcomes. The study's findings provide valuable insights into optimizing hemodialysis effectiveness.
Reactive Protein can be use as a Diagnostic Tool for Acute Appendicitis
Authors: Aslam Jawad , Zaman Hassan , Ubaid Muhammad , Aminullah
Published: April 2024

Background: Diagnosing and treating appendicitis is a common surgical emergency.Based on a thorough history, physical examination, test results, and imaging studies, an accurate diagnosis of acute appendicitis can be made. Correct diagnosis is frequently challenging since the patient's age and the location of the appendix might affect the clinical presentation. This study aimed to determine the C- reactive protein's clinical usefulness as an appendicitis diagnostic test.Materials and Methods: An eight (08) months cross-sectional study was performed done between March and October, 2021. The study was conducted at the tertiary care hospital. In this study, 116 patients were included. Clinical details, examination, and history were noted. All patients having negative HBsAg, and Anti-HCV, required emergency surgery irrespective of age and gender were included in the study. All collected data were entered and analyzed through Microsoft Excel 2016.Results: A total of 116 appendicitis patients were studied in which majority patients were in age range from 18-30 years with 62.1% and 37.9% were observed in age between 31 to 45 years. Male patients were found frequently with 56.9%. CRP was positive in majoritypatients with 84.4% acute appendicitis.Conclusion: Acute appendicitis is not likely to be recognized in preoperative instances with increased CRP values. When a patient is suspected of having acute appendicitis, a standard laboratory test assessing CRP should be implemented. Acute appendicitis can bediagnosed with this test and utilized as a surgical indication marker.
Prevalence of Laryngospasm in Children Undergoing Elective ENT Surgery At Lady Reading Hospital Peshawar
Authors: Khan Janas
Published: April 2024

Background: Laryngospasm occurs frequently during the administration of anesthesia to pediatric patient. The pathophysiological mechanism of laryngospasm during anesthesia is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, of laryngospasm postoperative in children undergoing elective ENT surgery.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in ENT Operation Theater at Lady Reading Hospital Peshawar from October 6, 2020 to Feb 01, 2021 where Elective ENT surgeries are performed. Those included in the study whose age were between 11-15 years are most prominent laryngospasm and those who undergoing tonsillectomy. The exclusion criteria was the patients of ASA class IV and V Respiratory disease.
Results: A total of 169 patients were recruited in the study done in lady reading hospital Peshawar. In this males were 107 (67%) and females were 64 (37%). in which laryngospasm were found.in age wise the rate of laryngospasm is high in 11 to 15 years.
Conclusion: The risk factors that have shown increased incidence of laryngospasm in ENT surgery with statistical significance. The risk factors that showed positive correlation with outcome of Laryngospasm without statistical significance. There was no major adverse effect of laryngospasm encountered in this study.
The forces of revenue recognition standard changes in a telecommunication company: A qualitative approach
Authors: Fauzi Syazwani Izzati Mohd , Ali Mazurina Mohd , Ghani Erlane K
Published: April 2024

Revenue recognition is one of the crucial key performance indicators for each organisation. The forces of the revenue recognition standard change may cause different experiences for organisations in many ways. Currently, the revenue recognition implementation method is different from what it was in the past. As a result, an organisation that goes through changes may have different experiences and approach problems differently. Organisational change may be triggered by external factors, such as government policies that specifically target a certain sector. Moreover, alterations in the criteria and protocols of regulatory entities might potentially initiate organisational change, in line with the coercive isomorphism of institutional theory. The objective of this study was to enhance comprehension of the forces influencing changes in revenue recognition standards within a telecommunications company by conducting an explanatory case study on a Malaysian telecommunications company. The semi-structured interviews were conducted to get better and more in-depth information on how the company handled the situation. This study found that external factors and regulatory regulations may significantly influence only a small part of an organisation, leading to changes in its operational structure and activities. These changes aim to improve performance, strengthen organisational stability, and promote improved financial reporting. The focus on the telecommunications industry may add to the body of knowledge concerning complex product-based industries. This study provides a foundation for further research into how such industries navigate regulatory changes and adapt their practices accordingly.
Translanguaging as Interactional Resources Employed by Students in EFL Student-Led Group Task Interaction
Authors: HAO YANG  , Joseph Foley
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to investigate the strategies used by students during group tasks in the EFL classroom. The study focused on translanguaging as one of the strategies to facilitate communication and interaction among students. The data was collected by recording the classroom discussions of a focused group in an EFL class at a Chinese university over three hours. The analysis was carried out using conversation analytic methodology. The study revealed various interactional features in turn constructions. Students often used single learner turns to agree and extended learner turns with clarification or explanation to support their ideas for turn-taking. Concerning turn passing, students prefer to use open-ended questions to ask for opinions, they also used open-ended questions to ask for opinions, confirmation checks for meaningful understanding, and extended wait times for other speakers to take turns.  Regarding self-repairs and peer repairs, they often made content-focused repairs rather than form-focused ones, and students with a higher English proficiency usually provided support. Translanguaging was an effective strategy to facilitate peer interaction and avoid errors in meaning-making. The study has important implications for language teaching and learning policy, highlighting the need to encourage prospective teachers to practice translanguaging to facilitate classroom interaction and second language acquisition.
Using of Morphological Theory to Improve English Reading Comprehension Ability of Buriram Rajabhat University Students
Authors: Rungnapa Moendee  , Suwaree Yordchim  , Suphat Sukamolson
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to 1) explore the English reading comprehension problems and needs of Buriram Rajabhat University students, 2) construct the English reading comprehension handbook by using morphological theory to improve their English reading comprehension ability, and 3) evaluate the effectiveness of the English reading comprehension handbook that uses morphological theory. The population consisted of 128 first-year students at Buriram Rajabhat University, had taken the BRU English proficiency test and experienced difficulties with English during the 2023 academic year. From this population, a sample of 30 participants was selected using systematic sampling techniques. The study used several research instruments to collect data which included: 1) a questionnaire to identify the problems faced by students in comprehending English reading, 2) an English reading comprehension handbook by using morphological theory, 3) pre-test and post-test, and 4) a students’ satisfaction with the English reading comprehension handbook that uses morphological theory questionnaire. The results revealed that 1) most students at Buriram Rajabhat University acknowledged facing challenges in English reading comprehension, with vocabulary knowledge receiving the highest, followed by fundamental knowledge, and knowledge of sentence structure, respectively. Moreover, the students express a high-level need to improve their English comprehension using morphological theory.  2) The handbook is structured into five chapters, each rooted in morphological theory to offer through assistance for students facing challenges in English reading comprehension. 3) The English reading comprehension handbook, which utilized morphological theory, received the highest level of student satisfaction and students demonstrate higher English proficiency test scores after utilizing the English.
Pemantapan Literasi Digital oleh Pendidik dan Peserta Didik dalam Menghadapi Era Society 5.0
Authors: Agung Fatikh Catur Wahyudi
Published: April 2024

Society Era 5.0 is a concept that helps us understand how human civilization has evolved over time. By understanding historical developments in the Society Era, we can have better insight into the changes that occur in society and how we can adapt and develop in an ever-changing era. Digital literacy is very important in everyday life, especially in the current era of society 5.0. We can improve our digital literacy by verifying information sources, maintaining privacy, creating strong password protection, maintaining digital ethics, updating digital knowledge, and sharing validated knowledge. There are nine elements of digital literacy: Social Networking, Transliteracy, Maintaining Privacy, Managing Digital Identity, Creating Content, Organizing and Sharing Content, Reusing/Repurposing Content, Filtering and Selecting Content and Self Broadcasting. Meanwhile, the strategies that must be implemented are: critical thinking, utilizing information technology and understanding digital culture. In the world of education, we must be able to understand the four stages of problem solving, namely: understanding the problem, making a solution plan, carrying out calculations and checking the results again.
Keywords: Educators, Digital Literacy, Era Society 5.0.
Bangunan Trilogi Epistemologi dalam Integrasi Ilmu Abid Al Jabiri
Authors: Qoyyim Moh
Published: April 2024

The main theories of science, whether rationalism or empiricism, are developing rapidly in the West. In contrast the wealth of Islamic scholarship which is stagnant due to differences of opinion regarding the dominant source of knowledge originating from dogmatic textuality which is growing rapidly in the Islamic world. The epistemology of Bayani, Burhani, and Irfani is defined by Abid Al Jabiri as Arabic reasoning which is in conflict with each other and sometimes one domain of epistemology is more dominant than another. The unity of these three epistemologies is expected to be a balanced source in the development of science and provide a conceptual framework that enables a more holistic and interdisciplinary integration of science, stimulating cooperation between scientific fields to achieve a deeper understanding of the complexity of reality in the modern Islamic world.
Keywords: Trilogy of Epistemology, Integration of Science, Abid Al Jabiri
Perbedaan Epistemologi Bayani, Irfani dan Burhani dalam Pemikiran Islam
Authors: Ulliyah Anggun Khafidhotul , Aulia Eva Nur , Ikhsan Muhammad Azka Waradana , Ramadhani Rifki Fajar , Nasikhin  , Junaedi Mahfud , Aarde Timothy Van
Published: April 2024

Epistemology is the theory of knowledge in the context of Islamic philosophy, which includes three main approaches: Bayani, Irfani, and Burhani. The Bayani approach centers on the sacred text, while Irfani is concerned with direct experience of spiritual reality. On the other hand, the Burhani approach is based on logic. This research aims to analyze the differences in bayani, irfani and burhani epistemology. By using the literature research method, this study shows that there are differences in 1.) Bayani epistemology 2.) Irfani epistemology 3.) Burhani epistemology. In this study, the analysis of Bayani, Irfani, and Burhani epistemology shows significant differences. The Bayani approach tends to produce dogmatic and intolerant religious views, while the Burhani approach offers an open and philosophical framework. The Irfani 2 approach, on the other hand, explores the dimensions of spiritual experience in depth. The results of this study have a positive impact on the development of Islamic science, strengthening the argument that Western philosophers' thoughts can synergize with Islamic philosophy. By understanding the differences and relevance of each approach, space can be opened for dialogue between intellectual traditions, supporting conflict resolution and promoting peace with a more contextual and scientific approach.
Keywords: Epistemology, Bayani, Irfani, Burhani.
The Intersection of Finance and Healthcare: Financing Healthcare Delivery Systems
Authors: Khan Abdul Aziz
Published: April 2024

The Intersection of Finance and Healthcare: Financing Healthcare Delivery Systems" explores the complex relationship between finance and healthcare, focusing on the financing of healthcare delivery systems. The article discusses the importance of effective financial management in healthcare organizations, including budgeting, revenue cycle management, cost containment, and financial reporting. It also examines the role of finance in promoting patient care and saving costs through strategies like accountable care organizations and value-based care models. The article highlights the significance of financing for medical innovation, research, and the creation of novel treatments and cures. The article also discusses the importance of financing for attracting, training, and retaining a competent healthcare workforce. The article emphasizes the significance of sustainable finance in accomplishing universal health coverage and mitigating inefficiencies within the health system. The article examines various healthcare financing models, including tax-funded healthcare systems, social health insurance programs, private health insurance models, and hybrid healthcare finance models. The article also discusses the historical perspectives of healthcare financing, including the creation of publicly funded healthcare systems and the Affordable Care Act. The article concludes by examining the current landscape of healthcare financing, including global trends in healthcare spending and funding schemes. The article emphasizes the importance of balancing clinical efficacy and financial efficiency in healthcare finance systems and overcoming obstacles like fragmentation of services, bureaucratic obstacles, and administrative inefficiencies.
The Role of NGOs in Pakistani Education
Authors: Ahmad Ishaq
Published: April 2024

This paper provides a thorough review of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) dedicated to enhancing education in Pakistan, exploring the current educational landscape in the country. Utilizing a qualitative research approach, the findings highlight that the educational conditions for the less privileged have not seen substantial improvements nationwide, with a specific emphasis on Pakistan. This study holds significance given the ongoing debates among various stakeholders, including the government, regarding the efficacy of NGOs in the education sector. Despite NGOs proclaiming success, particularly in Pakistan, this research prompts further inquiry to scrutinize and substantiate the assertions made by these organizations, suggesting a need for additional research to assess the actual impact of NGO efforts in the realm of education within the country.
Difficulties with English-language Content Acquisition for Undergraduates
Authors: Ali Niaz , Ali Mazhar
Published: April 2024

The difficulties of teaching English material at the undergraduate level are examined in this paper. The emphasis is on the challenges that students have when attempting to navigate academic courses, especially in those areas where English is not their first language. The study explores how language limitations affect students' ability to understand, express themselves, and succeed academically overall. The article focuses on important difficulties such as limited vocabulary, low skill, and difficulty understanding complicated concepts presented in English. The article explores how these difficulties affect students' educational experiences, highlighting the necessity of focused interventions and linguistic assistance initiatives. In addition, it looks at possible differences in students' language skills and offers solutions to close these gaps, creating a more welcoming learning atmosphere. This study adds to the current conversation on language education and how it helps undergraduate students transfer knowledge in an efficient manner. The article's goal is to educate educators, administrators, and legislators on the value of establishing linguistically accessible learning environments in order to improve the academic performance of different student populations. To accomplish this, it identifies and addresses various learning problems.
Service Quality and Customer Loyalty in Private and Public Banks
Authors: Ullah Niamat , Haider Maqsood
Published: April 2024

In both public and private banking institutions, the purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between customer loyalty and various service quality parameters, including tangibility, reliability, assurance, responsiveness, and empathy. A regression analysis was carried out in order to investigate the connections that exist between these factors and the occurrence of repeat business. Based on the findings, it has been determined that tangibility, reliability, assurance, and empathy have a substantial impact on customer loyalty in both public and private banking institutions. These criteria are relevant in the banking business since they have been found to have positive connections with client loyalty. Yet, in this scenario, responsiveness did not yield a statistically meaningful impact on client loyalty. The overall regression model showed a high level of statistical significance, indicating the effectiveness of Tangibility, Reliability, Assurance, and Empathy in jointly accounting for variations in consumer loyalty. This research provides valuable insights for banks aiming to improve customer retention by focusing on specific areas of exceptional service. The findings resulted in suggestions for banks to improve service quality by investing in physical and online environments (Tangibility), maintaining reliable and error-free services (Reliability), improving client trust and communication (Assurance), and promoting empathetic interactions (Empathy).
IMF Financing, Pakistan's Economic Growth, and Islam
Authors: Ullah Wasi
Published: April 2024

The International Monetary Fund acts as the ultimate source of financial assistance for all nations. Since 1958, Pakistan has regularly availed of IMF loans. However, its economic status has not advanced sufficiently enough to be classified as one of the industrialised nations. The study seeks to analyse the influence of an IMF loan on Pakistan's economic progress. The study intends to investigate the influence of IMF loans on the improvement of socio-economic dynamics in Pakistan. The study seeks to ascertain if IMF interest-based funding enhances or impedes the development of Pakistan's economy. Qualitative research methodology is used subjectively to develop a conceptual framework using an inductive paradigm. IMF loans to Pakistan are thought to have impeded economic progress and worsened the plight of economically disadvantaged individuals by undermining their rights to health, food, and quality of life. The loans are interest-based, which goes against Islamic Shariah rules and the country's Islamic identity. Pakistan faces particular costs in obtaining IMF loan funding with interest.
The Socio-economic Effects of Diaspora on the Pakistani Families Left Behind
Authors: Ullah Sana
Published: April 2024

The article explores the intricate dynamics and socio-economic impacts experienced by families in Pakistan whose members have migrated abroad. Focusing on the phenomenon of diaspora, the research sheds light on the multifaceted consequences that extend beyond individual emigrants, especially in Pakistan. Through a mixed-methods approach, including surveys and qualitative interviews, the study investigates how the departure of family members influences the economic, social, and cultural fabric of households remaining in Pakistan. The findings reveal a complex interplay of both positive and challenging outcomes. While remittances from the diaspora contribute significantly to household incomes, fostering financial stability and access to better education and healthcare, the absence of family members poses emotional and social challenges. The study delves into the psychological impact on those left behind, exploring issues of loneliness, altered family dynamics, and the renegotiation of social roles. By understanding the broader implications of diaspora on families in Pakistan, this research offers valuable insights for policymakers, social workers, and community leaders seeking to develop strategies that harness the positive aspects of migration while addressing its potential socio-economic drawbacks.
Pakistan's Mediating Role in Intra-Afghan Talks
Authors: Fazlullah
Published: April 2024

This paper investigates Pakistan's role as a mediator in intra-Afghan peace negotiations aimed at ending Afghanistan's protracted civil war. It examines the motivations, obstacles, and future prospects of Pakistan's participation in the peace process, as well as its implications for regional and international security. The paper contends that Pakistan has a vital interest in facilitating a political settlement that can guarantee stability, security, and cooperation in Afghanistan and the surrounding region. Nevertheless, Pakistan confronts a number of obstacles and dangers, including the mistrust of the Afghan government, the influence of other regional actors, the pressure of the international community, and the possibility of violence from militant groups. The paper concludes that Pakistan's role as a mediator is essential but insufficient to achieve an enduring peace in Afghanistan and that a comprehensive and inclusive approach addressing the fundamental causes and grievances of the conflict is necessary.
Rights Denied: Human Rights Challenges in Pakistan's Legal Landscape
Authors: Akhtar Naureen
Published: April 2024

This article explores the human rights issues that Pakistan's legal system raises. We shed light on the barriers standing in the way of the achievement of fundamental liberties by assessing the situation of human rights today, closely studying legal procedures, and delving into the nuances of right enforcement. This report offers a thorough review of the difficulties faced by those pursuing protection under the law, ranging from concerns about freedom of expression to issues with access to justice. We evaluate the efficacy of current systems by applying a critical perspective, which reveals possible paths for legal reforms and international collaboration to tackle these human rights issues.
An Examination of Chinese Interests in Pakistan from a Regional Perspective
Authors: Ahmad Ishaq
Published: April 2024

This study aims to examine the manner and level of Chinese interests in Pakistan. The study tries to comprehend the existing level of cordiality between China and Pakistan by analyzing their approach to actively seeking new markets in the region. While Pakistan has consistently prioritized maintaining a friendly relationship with China as a fundamental aspect of its foreign policy, the process of transforming this friendship into a formal cooperation has been difficult due to their shared interests. In the realm of international politics, the connection between nations is an intricate interplay of practical national interests, which are diverse and subject to change in response to shifting regional and global circumstances. Given their shared political, economic, and strategic objectives, both Pakistan and China are prioritizing the protection of their mutual interests. This paper will examine the widely held belief that China is unavoidable by avoiding the opposite viewpoint. The common risks and problems encountered by both nations are the primary factors that unite them in terms of security, political, economic, and strategic aspects.
Social Media's Impact on Kashmir's Liberation Movement
Authors: Ali Sajjad
Published: April 2024

The youth-driven liberation struggle in Indian Held Kashmir (IHK) goes beyond the armed insurrection. The non-violent technique uses social media to expose and denounce Indian armed forces brutality and human rights violations, including systematic torture, rape, extrajudicial killings, and prisoner mistreatment. The victims' stories have been widely shared on social media. The next phase of the liberation movement began in 2016 after the Indian military forces killed Burhan Muzaffar Wani. Wani, a young leader and freedom fighter, used social media to mobilize the youth of Kashmir for the cause. Modern communication platforms like social media ensure the Kashmiri people's story about their struggle for liberation from Indian occupation and worldwide persecution is spread. The IHK liberation movement is examined using social movement framing analysis in this research. It seeks to understand how activists reinvent the movement through international protests. The activists are reiterating the global relevance of modern human rights mobilizations.
The Impact of Nuclear Power on Pakistan: Analysing the Recipients of US Aid, Efficacy, and Future Consequences
Authors: Ahmad Aftab
Published: April 2024

This study examines the United States' imposition of sanctions on Pakistan following the test of nuclear arsenals in 1998. The paper examines the elements that contribute to lifting U.S. sanctions on Islamabad and evaluates the effectiveness of imposing consistently strong economic penalties. It analyses the manner in which the United States employed Pakistan to serve its national security objectives by offering assistance in a counterterrorism effort spearheaded by the United States following the events of 9/11. The United States, driven by its own self-interests, chose to support Pakistan by easing sanctions and sending help. Pakistan, in turn, used this aid for military and general development goals. This study analyses the cost-effectiveness of U.S. aid and the disparity between internal and foreign opinions of the recipients of U.S. help in Pakistan. The primary aim of this article is to evaluate Pakistan's utilization of U.S. aid, specifically in terms of military expenditures against investments in the well-being of its people. This assessment will consider viewpoints from both internal and international sources. Within this framework, the study offers several recommendations that have significant ramifications for the donor-beneficiary approach to aid provision and budget allocation in the future.
The Impact of Pakistan's Child Labour Laws on the Country
Authors: Alam Amir
Published: April 2024

Child labour is any job that takes away from a child's childhood, makes it hard for them to go to school regularly, or is harmful to them mentally, physically, socially, or morally. Many international organisations think this method is unfair and takes advantage of people. Laws all over the world make it illegal for children to work. These rules don't think that all work done by children is work done by children. The study we are working on is about the new changes to the Child Labour Act and how they will affect children in Pakistan. This article talks about how UNICEF and other foreign groups work to improve the lives of children around the world. The ILO and UNICEF have made a distinction between child labour and child work. They say child labour will not be counted if the child works to help with housework or family business and doesn't hurt his health or schoolwork. But if it hurts a child's physical or mental health or schooling, then it will be considered child labour.
The Post-Revolutionary Israeli-Iranian Rivalry and Iran's Nuclear Program
Authors: Jalal Syed Umair
Published: April 2024

There were big changes in the Middle East after the Iranian Revolution of 1979. The rebels were against Israel. Tel Aviv had a good relationship with Tehran until 1979, but it was hostile towards its Arab neighbours because of a longstanding desire to rule the area. In times of change, Israel has grown afraid as Iran's power has grown. Israel is against Islam and Muslims. A lack of balance of power in the area and Iran's desire for nuclear weapons have made Iran and Israel compete with each other. A lot of Israelis think that Iran's nuclear project is a threat to their very survival and that it needs to be stopped. This piece talks about the bad feelings between Iran and Israel, the risks that could come from Iran having nuclear weapons, and different ways to get Iran to give up its nuclear programme. The piece is divided into four parts. The first part talks about the history of relations between Iran and Israel and why they are at odds with each other. The second part briefly explains how the division of power in the region led to a direct war between Tehran and Tel Aviv. The third part talks about Iran's nuclear project and the threats it makes against Israel. The last part talks about current plans for sanctions against Iran to get it to give up its nuclear weapons.
Processo de inteligência competitiva e desempenho financeiro de comercializadoras de commodities agrícolas
Authors: Horbach Elissama Dias , Gasparini Liz Vanessa Lupi , Melz Laércio Juarez , Húngaro Oksana Aparecida de Lara
Published: April 2024

O comércio de commodities agrícolas é caracterizado por um mercado dinâmico e instável, influenciado por variáveis externas incontroláveis que impactam na formação de preços. Nesse cenário, as empresas do setor precisam ser capazes de processar informações complexas e voláteis para embasar decisões estratégicas e alcançar desempenhos superiores. A inteligência competitiva (IC) desempenha um papel fundamental ao transformar informações em insights valiosos, permitindo a tomada de decisões que agregam valor e conferem vantagem competitiva. O estudo realizado teve como objetivo analisar o processo de IC em empresas de commodities agrícolas, identificando estratégias, variações de desempenho financeiro, aspectos e fases da IC, e propondo ações para seu desenvolvimento. Os resultados revelaram que as empresas analisadas aplicam a IC em níveis razoáveis a avançados, sendo aquela com práticas mais desenvolvidas em disseminação e contra inteligência, planejamento, análise e disseminação, além de estrutura e processos superiores, a que obteve melhores resultados financeiros. O estudo reforçou a importância da IC para a competitividade organizacional, destacando seu papel na geração de inteligência útil e significativa que impulsiona a competitividade. Além disso, contribuiu ao unir teorias de avaliação de processos de IC em um contexto relevante para Mato Grosso e Brasil, tornando-a mais acessível aos gestores.
Clinico-bacteriological Study and Molecular Detection of Campylobacter in Childhood Diarrhoea: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Kadiyala Visakha , Kulkarni Madhuri , Kadiyala Prathyusha , Yadav Anshu Kumar
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Campylobacter infections cause diarrhoeal diseases as frequently as Salmonella and Shigella infections. The prevalence of Campylobacter infection among children with acute diarrhoea in developing countries ranges from 5-35%. Diagnosing Campylobacter infections is challenging as the organism is difficult to isolate, grow, and identify. Currently, no best-practice clinical or public health laboratory guidelines exist for laboratory diagnosis of Campylobacter infections. Aim: To explore the clinical and bacterial aspects of childhood diarrhoea, emphasising the prevalence and molecular detection of Campylobacter. Materials and Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with 55 stool samples of children under five with diarrhoea or dysentery at the Department of Microbiology, JSS Medical College, Mysuru, Karnataka, India, from October 2016 to September 2017. All stool samples were inoculated onto Campylobacter selective and non selective media with filtration and incubated in microaerophilic conditions. The culture isolates were identified by standard phenotypic tests. Molecular characterisation of Campylobacter was performed targeting the Campylobacter adhesion to fibronectin F (cadF) gene. The presence of a phylogenetically conserved 16S ribosomal Ribonucleic Acid (16SrRNA) domain was studied, followed by specific detection of pathogenic Campylobacter species. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22.0 was used for statistical analysis. Descriptive statistics like percentage, mean, and Standard Deviation (SD) were applied. Results: Campylobacter was isolated by culture in one out of 55 stool samples. The isolate was confirmed to be Campylobacter jejuni by phenotypic tests. Campylobacter genus-level Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was positive for 6 samples (10.9%). Six positive samples were subjected to species-level PCR; all were positive for C. jejuni. Out of 55 stool samples, two diarrheagenic Escherichia coli, two Shigella sonnei, one Shigella dysenteriae, and one Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi were also identified. Conclusion: Culture is insufficiently sensitive for diagnosing Campylobacter infection compared with nucleic acid-based diagnostics. Nucleic acid-based diagnostics offer increased sensitivity, can determine both the presence and burden of infection, and can distinguish between Campylobacter infections at the species level. Therefore, PCR is recommended, if feasible, as the preferred diagnostic modality for detecting Campylobacter infection.
Ocular Manifestations of Leukaemia: A Cross-sectional Study from Tertiary Care Hospital of South Gujarat, India
Authors: Padvi Umeshaben Ishvarbhai , Solu Trupti Mahesh
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Leukaemic ophthalmopathy can be either symptomatic or asymptomatic. Several factors can cause leukaemic ophthalmopathy, including opportunistic infections, direct ocular infiltration by leukaemic cells, indirect ocular involvement from subsequent haematologic alterations, and consequences from different treatment modalities. Patients with leukaemia who develop leukaemic infiltrates must undergo urgent systemic and neurological re-evaluation. Aim: To evaluate the prevalence and spectrum of leukaemic ophthalmopathy among leukaemic patients and to identify and analyse the common ocular manifestations of leukaemia in different age and gender groups. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in South Gujarat, India. A total of 48 patients diagnosed with leukaemia were included in the study. Detailed histories regarding their systemic illness, present systemic complaints, ocular complaints, and history of treatment were noted. Detailed ophthalmoscopic examinations like slit lamp examinations, fundoscopic examinations, visual acuity, and intraocular pressure were performed on each participant. Statistical analysis was conducted using descriptive data analysis methods in Microsoft Excel sheets. Results: Out of the total 48 leukaemia patients recruited, 16 (33.33%) had ocular manifestations. Among the 25 acute leukaemia patients and 23 chronic leukaemia patients, 8 (32%) and 8 (34.78%) had ocular manifestations, respectively. Among all ocular manifestations, venous tortuosity was the most common, followed by deep and superficial retinal haemorrhage, dry eye, and Roth’s spot. Conclusion: The prevalence of ocular manifestations in leukaemia was reported to be 33.33%. Although an ophthalmologist's involvement in leukaemia treatment is secondary, it is nonetheless crucial to promptly recognise any ocular signs due to the worse prognosis associated with ocular involvement and to rule out extramedullary disease.