bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Smartphone-based Monitoring and cognition Modification Against Recurrence of Depression: An RCT of Memory Bias Modification Training vs. Cognitive Control Training vs. Attention Bias Modification Training in remitted recurrently depressed patients
Authors: Ikani Nessa , Tyborowska Anna , Kohn Nils , Siegle Greg , harmer catherine , Kas Martien , Vrijsen Janna Nonja , Ruhé Eric
Published: March 2024

Background:Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) has a 50-80% recurrence rate highlighting the urgent need for more efficient recurrence prevention programs. Currently, recurrences are often identified too late, while existing preventive strategies may not sufficiently address ethio-patho-physiological mechanisms for recurrence. Negative memory bias (the tendency to better remember negative than positive events), negative attention bias (selective attention favoring mood-congruent information), and cognitive control deficits are important factors involved in the onset, maintenance, and recurrence of depressive episodes. Methods:Here we describe the protocol for the Smartphone-based Monitoring and cognition Modification Against Recurrence of Depression (SMARD) study, aiming to investigate different forms of cognitive training programs administered via smartphones, in order to develop a second-generation recurrence prevention program. In addition, we will gather Experience Sampling Method (ESM) assessments during a 6-day period, and during the follow-up period we will obtain behavioral data on (social) activities with BEHAPP, a smartphone-based Mobile Passive Monitoring application for remote behavioral monitoring to identify behavioral changes indicative of an imminent depressive episode.Results:In a randomized controlled trial, SMARD will compare the effects of a smartphone-based Memory Bias Modification Training (MBT), Cognitive Control Training (CCT), and Attention Bias Modification Training (ABT) versus cognitive domain-specific (active-) sham trainings in 120 remitted MDD-patients with recurrent-MDD. Over the course of three weeks, participants receive multiple daily training sessions. Thereafter, participants will be followed up for 1.5 years with 3-monthly interviews to assess recurrences. Conclusion:The SMARD study aims to 1. assess the effects of the cognitive training programs versus their training-specific (active-) sham conditions on changes in memory, cognitive control dysfunction and attention; 2. relate training effects to neural networks previously identified in (recurrence of) MDD (therefore we obtain functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging ((f)MRI) scans before and after the training in a subset of participants); 3. link baseline and change in memory, cognitive control, attention and neural functioning, and ESM data to prospective recurrences; 4. examine whether passive smartphone-use monitoring can be used for prediction of recurrences.
Using freely generated labels instead of rating scales to assess emotion in everyday life
Authors: Hoemann Katie , Warfel Evan A. , Mills Caitlin , Allen Laura , Kuppens Peter , Wormwood Jolie B.
Published: March 2024

To measure emotion in daily life, studies often prompt participants to repeatedly rate their feelings on a set of pre-specified terms. This approach has yielded key findings in the psychological literature yet may not represent how people typically describe their experiences. We used an alternative approach, in which participants labeled their current emotion with at least one word of their choosing. In an initial study, estimates of label positivity recapitulated momentary valence ratings and were associated with self-reported mental health. The number of unique emotion words used over time was related to the balance and spread of emotions endorsed in an end-of-day rating task, but not to other measures of emotional functioning. A second study tested and replicated a subset of these findings. Considering the variety and richness of participant responses, a free-label approach appears to be a viable as well as compelling means of studying emotion in everyday life.
Nothingness in Meditation: Making Sense of Emptiness and Cessation
Authors: Agrawal Vismay , Laukkonen Ruben Eero
Published: March 2024

Contemplative practices have been shown to elicit a range of experiences and insights often referred to as "nothingness". However, these encounters are frequently conflated and remain undifferentiated. Here we address this ambiguity and provide a nuanced understanding of two such events: 1) emptiness (lack of inherent existence in experience, i.e., no-thingness) and 2) cessation (“cut” or absence in the stream of consciousness, i.e., nothingness). We synthesize insights from Buddhist literature and empirical research, investigating the relationship between these “nothingness” phenomena, their transformative effects, and neural correlates. We also examine multiple pathways that may lead to cessation and consider potential cognitive models underlying these experiences using the active inference framework. Finally, we discuss the relationship between “nothingness” events and cessation of suffering, setting the stage for further development in this field. Our unique contributions involve juxtaposing various experiences of “void, oneness, non-dual awareness, pure consciousness” with insights into “emptiness and cessation”, and analyzing their potential implications for alleviating suffering.
Brainstorming and Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Grüning David Joachim , Rowland Nicholas
Published: March 2024

This retrospective essay returns to Alex Faickney Osborn’s iconic book Applied Imagination (Scribner, New York, 317 pgs, 1953) in which the process of “brainstorming” was first introduced to academic audiences. In scenario planning, the capacity to brainstorm is an essential, core component of the process, even though few scholars and practitioners seem to return to Osborn’s original insights about the disciplined application of imagination. As the futures and foresight science community braces for the impending impact of artificial intelligence, we return readers to the fact that Osborn’s work, some 70 years ago, which championed human creativity, was written during the rise of the first “electronic brains” (i.e., computers) and all the potential implications of computing power. The purpose of this article, therefore, is to bring those AIs together; to recover insights from Osborn’s Applied Imagination and consider what those insights mean for our contemporary context rife with the concern and opportunity of Artificial Intelligence.
Anchoring Autonomy: Understanding Seafarers’ Interaction with Energy Efficiency Decision Support Systems for Route Planning and the Role of Basic Psychological Needs
Authors: Zoubir Mourad , Schwarz Benjamin , Heidinger Jan , Gruner Marthe , Jetter Hans-Christian , Franke Thomas
Published: March 2024

Onboard Decision Support Systems (DSS) for energy-efficient maritime route planning can be critical in achieving global goals for carbon reduction and sus-tainable transportation. However, research has shown that seafarers’ fuel reduc-tion behaviors are hindered by goal conflicts and workload, reducing motivation and efficient use of automated supporting systems. Therefore, we examined sea-farers’ (N = 22) interactions with a DSS while planning routes in a high-fidelity bridge simulator. To gain a comprehensive picture, we assessed Usability, User Experience, Workload, Basic Psychological Need (BPN) fulfillment and Prefer-ences for Automation Types, and conducted interviews. Despite positive system evaluation, especially hedonic User Experience, our analysis of BPN data points towards a perception of reduced autonomy when using the DSS. Similarly, sea-farers frequently requested features increasing their autonomy (e.g. route editing). Our findings highlight the significance of considering BPNs, especially autono-my, in the human-centered design of DSS and automated tools for maritime transportation. Prioritizing these aspects can contribute to broader environmental and efficiency goals.
Holistic Interventions and Self-compassion, the Case of “Natural Compassion” - an EU-funded training course for 33 youth workers
Authors: Charitidou Anastasia
Published: March 2024

Objective: This study evaluated the impact of the Natural Compassion program, an EU-funded training course, incorporating nature-based learning aimed at enhancing self-compassion among youth workers—a group routinely facing significant emotional challenges in their professional roles.Methods: The program's effectiveness was measured using a pre, and post-intervention design, with follow-up assessments (2 months later) to track the sustainability of outcomes, with a sample of 33 youth workers. The program consisted of an 8-day immersive training focused on self-compassion, mindfulness, and nature connection. Self-compassion was measured using the Self-Compassion Scale (SCS) at baseline, immediately after the program (post-test), and two months later (follow-up). Results: Statistically significant increases in self-compassion scores were observed both immediately after the program (19.81%) and at follow-up (25.24%) compared to baseline. The intervention led to significant increases in positive self-compassion constructs (self-kindness, mindfulness, common humanity) and decreases in negative constructs such as self-judgment, isolation, and over-identification. Notably, improvements persisted and even strengthened at follow-up, indicating the long-lasting impact of the program. Additionally, the study found no significant differences in outcomes based on demographic variables, suggesting the program's broad applicability.Conclusion: Findings suggest that the Natural Compassion program is successful in fostering self-compassion thus enhancing well-being among youth workers. The group delivery format of the intervention, which emphasized shared experiences in nature, may have contributed to a diminished sense of isolation and an enhanced sense of common humanity. Results point to the potential of integrating such interventions into youth work training and practice, with implications for policy and future research focused on community and mutual support mechanisms within emotionally demanding professions Further research with larger samples and longer follow-up periods is needed to confirm these initial findings and explore potential mechanisms of change.
Das Kleinkind in (synchroner) Interaktion
Authors: Daum Moritz M.
Published: March 2024

Dieser Text beschäftigt sich mit der Frage, wie Eltern und Kinder eine gute Beziehung aufbauen können. Eine Schüsselrolle für die Entstehung einer guten Beziehung spielt dabei die frühe Erfahrung von Synchronität in der Interaktion von Kindern mit ihren Bezugspersonen und gleichaltrigen Kindern. Dieser Text geht auf aktuelle entwicklungspsychologische und neurophysiologische Evidenz ein, die zeigt, wie synchrones Verhalten zwischen Kindern und ihren Bezugspersonen verschiedene Aspekte der sozial-emotionalen Entwicklung stärkt: Die Regulation von Emotionen, die kognitive Kontrolle oder die Bewältigung von Stress. Die Erfahrung synchroner Interaktion verbessert die Vorhersehbarkeit und Vertrautheit mit dem Verhaltensrepertoire des Gegenübers und hilft dem Kind dabei, Vertrauen in seine Umwelt aufzubauen und zu lernen, wie seine Umgebung funktioniert.
When alternative analyses of the same data come to different conclusions: A tutorial using DeclareDesign with a worked real-world example
Authors: Bishop Dorothy Vera Margaret , Hulme Charles
Published: March 2024

Recent studies in psychology have documented how analytic flexibility can result in different results from the same dataset. Here we demonstrate a package in the R programming language, DeclareDesign, which uses simulated data to diagnose the ways in which different analytic designs can give different outcomes. To illustrate features of the package, we contrast two analyses of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) of GraphoGame, an intervention to help children learn to read. The initial analysis found no evidence that the intervention was effective, but a subsequent reanalysis concluded that GraphoGame significantly improved children’s reading. With DeclareDesign we can simulate data where the truth is known, and thus can identify which analysis is optimal for estimating the intervention effect, using “diagnosands”, including bias, precision, and power. The simulations showed that the original analysis accurately estimated intervention effects, whereas selection of a subset of data in the reanalysis introduced substantial bias, overestimating the effect sizes. This problem was exacerbated by inclusion of multiple outcome measures in the reanalysis. Much has been written about the dangers of performing reanalyses of data from RCTs that violate the randomisation of participants to conditions; simulated data make this message clear and quantify the extent to which such practices introduce bias. The simulations confirm the original conclusion that the intervention has no benefit over “business as usual”. In this tutorial we demonstrate several features of DeclareDesign, which can simulate observational and well as experimental research designs, allowing us to make principled decisions about which analysis to prefer.
Using triangulation to evaluate findings from random-intercept cross-lagged panel models: An application with data on curiosity and creativity
Authors: Sorjonen Kimmo , Melin Bo
Published: March 2024

In a recent study, researchers found cross-lagged effects between curiosity and creativity in an analysis with the random-intercept cross-lagged panel model (RI-CLPM) and concluded that curiosity and creativity mutually reinforce each other. However, it is known that the RI-CLPM can give biased results. Here, we used triangulation and analyzed the same data (N = 400) with additional models, including a latent change score model (LCSM) and multilevel regression analyses of person-mean centered scores. Only results from the original RI-CLPM were consistent with the conclusion of mutually reinforcing effects between curiosity and creativity while results from the other models contradicted this conclusion. Moreover, the novel model of spurious longitudinal associations (MoSLA) suggested that data might have been generated without any direct effects between curiosity and creativity. An aggregation of available evidence made us conclude that longitudinal associations between curiosity and creativity in the present data probably were spurious, possibly due to confounding by a trait common to curiosity and creativity and common auto-correlated state factors with effects on curiosity and creativity measured at the same occasion. The present study, and the available analytic script, can be used as a model/tutorial by researchers wishing to scrutinize results from the RI-CLPM.
Exploring associations between the Covid-19 vaccination campaign and fertility trends: A population-level analysis for 22 countries
Authors: Jasilioniene Aiva , Jasilionis Domantas , Jdanov Dmitri , Myrskylä Mikko
Published: March 2024

BackgroundAt the turn of 2021-2022, monthly birth rates declined in many higher-income countries. We explore how the rollout of COVID-19 vaccination was associated with this decline.MethodsUsing an interrupted time series design, we evaluate the impact of the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the start of COVID-19 vaccination on seasonally-adjusted monthly total fertility rates in 22 high-income countries. We study the associations between COVID-19 vaccination and fertility by additionally controlling for youth unemployment, stringency index, and vaccination coverage.ResultsThe start of the pandemic had an immediate effect on fertility in most countries, although the size and direction of level changes considerably varied across countries. The impact of COVID-19 vaccination was less all-embracing. A negative association between the COVID-19 vaccine rollout and fertility nine months later was found for ten out of 22 countries. For several countries, the decline was preceded by fertility increase that took place after the onset of the pandemic. Only four of 22 countries had post-vaccination fertility declines that resulted in fertility being on a lower level than what the pre-pandemic trend predicted. Additional control variables changed the associations only little.ConclusionsThe COVID-19 vaccination campaign contributed to the variation in the short-term fertility trends. Several countries experienced declines following the campaign, however, this decline often returned fertility closer to the pre-pandemic trend. Fertility appears to have responded in short run to vaccination, but only in few cases such that the long-term trajectory is below the pre-pandemic trend.
The blurred line between social insurance and social assistance — analysis of risk-based benefits in six countries
Authors: Tervola Jussi , Iivonen Saija , Hiilamo Heikki
Published: March 2024

Social insurance and social assistance reflect fundamental principles of social policies. Social insurance benefits cover employed individuals against a social risk event such as unemployment or disability in exchange of paid contributions. Social assistance benefits, in turn, are designed typically to secure the minimum standard of living, regardless of past contribution. In this article we ask if the dualism is feasible to depict contemporary social benefits that cover traditional social risks: unemployment, childbirth, sickness, disability, and old age. A policy analysis of six European countries with extensive social security systems – Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Netherlands, Sweden, and United Kingdom – demonstrates that while traditional insurance benefits and assistance benefits still make up the majority of risk-based benefits, also different kinds of deviations from the pure forms are observed. Some countries provide hybrid benefits where past contribution affects benefit rate, but non-contributory minimum is guaranteed for all facing the risk. Some countries provide income-tested contributory benefits which is against the traditional insurance logic. Moreover, universal flat-rate benefits are found especially covering the risk of old age.
Queer in a housing crisis: how nonbinary young adults navigate housing precarity
Authors: Flood Meghan , Hochstenbach Cody
Published: March 2024

As many cities experience housing crises, those of minority identity within these cities are more vulnerable to housing exclusion and discrimination. This article explores how nonbinary young adults experience and navigate housing precarity. Drawing on serial interviews with nonbinary young adults in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, we show that their nonbinarity adds an extra layer of insecurity to housing precarity, as the chance of gender-based discrimination undermines how those of nonbinary identities approach potential housing opportunities. Nonbinary young adults deploy unique gendered tactics and strategies to aid in searching for a home, in which they either conceal, showcase or leverage their gender identity. We further show that gender identity requires constant negotiation in relation to housing precarity, as exclusion and discrimination often continue beyond the search process and contribute to gendered forms of home unmaking. Our findings underscore the importance of urban nodes in queer infrastructures of care and mutual aid in home-making and achieving ontological security.
TURKIC STATEHOOD: MEGA-EMPIRES, CONFEDERATIONS, KHAGANATS AND KHANATES
Authors: Knar Eldar
Published: March 2024

The problem of medieval statehood in the territory of modern Kazakhstan and the Central Asian part of the Great Steppe is considered. A table of 29 mega-empires, confederations, khanates, and khaganates that exist in the territory of Kazakhstan and adjacent territories bordering modern Kazakhstan is compiled.Geopolitical competition and the nature of relations between sedentary and nomadic peoples are analyzed from a synectic perspective of biological symbiosis as a model of behavioral structures in the interpretation of "autotrophs" and "heterotrophs."The stability and longevity of medieval mega-empires, imperial agglomerations, and nomadic confederations in the territories of modern Kazakhstan borders and adjacent territories are examined, taking into account climatic and epidemiological factors.
How much does immigration contribute to national poverty rates? A decomposition analysis for 17 European welfare states.
Authors: de Smalen David , Van Bavel Jan , Van Lancker Wim
Published: March 2024

Over the past decades, many European welfare states failed to reduce poverty. We examine two coinciding trends: the inability to lower poverty rates, and the growth of immigrant populations. Immigrants have become the main contributor to population growth in Europe and have higher poverty risks than natives. This contribution quantifies to what extent national poverty rates were driven by population change. We present a Kitagawa-Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition of national poverty rates in 17 western European countries between 2005 and 2019 using EU-SILC data. The effect of shifting EU and non-EU immigrant populations on poverty rates is heterogeneous: while poverty in some countries increased substantially due to compositional changes, for the majority the effect was small or negligible, including in countries with above-average growth of foreign-born populations. Overall, in two-thirds of country-years changes in the population composition were not the main driver of national poverty rates.
Child-Nature-Ooru: Exploring children's relationships with nature in Bengaluru, India
Authors: Gokhale Aashish S , K Vena , Rau Kaustubh , Ravi Roshni , Thorat Ovee
Published: March 2024

Narratives of children in urban spaces as suffering from ‘nature-deficit disorder’ are prevalent in the child and nature discourse. These narratives are built on dichotomous framings of nature/culture, childhood/adulthood, rural/urban — where the urban is conceptualised to be outside of nature, urban children are perceived to be removed from nature, and nature is seen as an ever-benevolent entity to be (re)connected with. This paper attempts to re-examine these binaries through the experiences of 8-12 year old children in the city of Bengaluru, India. Involving various methods in the research process (such as questionnaire surveys (n=160), in-depth interviews (n=15), informal interviews, group discussions (n=5), photovoice (n=5), journalling (n=5) and observation), the study looked to provide avenues for children to construct their narratives of nature, and articulate the relationships that they share with the nonhuman world. This is a project report that delves into the findings from these research activities, exploring how children in Bengaluru relate to the various urban natures around them such as mud, birds, snakes, dogs, cows, weeds and trees — in forms indifferent, awkward, imaginative, compassionate and violent. The paper suggests that the nonhuman world does not constitute a passive backdrop to the lives of these children. Instead, these urban natures are deeply entangled with the social lives of children and are active participants who shape how children think, feel, move and play; troubling our understandings of what it means for children to (re)connect with and relate to ‘nature’ in the city.
Policy for Employment in Nepal
Authors: Pant Y. P.
Published: March 2024

Not Available.
Planning in Nepal to be Revisited in the Context of basic needs Approach
Authors: Pradhanang Aishwarya Lal
Published: March 2024

Not Available.
Information, Uncertainty, Adoption and Credit use in Nepalese Agriculture: A case study of Kavre District, Central Hills
Authors: Sharma Ramesh P.
Published: March 2024

Not Available.
Nepal's Demography: With Special reference to its Relation with Education
Authors: Singh Mrigendra Lal
Published: March 2024

Not available.
International Constraints on Macroeconomic Policies in Nepal: 1957-1978
Authors: McNown Robert F.
Published: March 2024

Not Available.
An Economic Analysis of Demand for and Supply of Rice in Nepal
Authors: Tulachan Pradeep M.
Published: March 2024

Not Available.
The glycemic control and side effects of Empagliflozin on patients with type II diabetes mellitus in tertiary care Hospital
Authors: Man Bahadur M , Malla D , Ghimire P , Karkee SB
Published: March 2024

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by chronic hyperglycemia associated with disturbances of carbohydrate, fat and protein metabolism due to absolute or relative deficiency in insulin secretion and/or action. The burden of it is increased globally especially middle- or low-income countries. Different oral anti-diabetic medicines including older regimen to novel medicine like empagliflozin are used for the treatment of different types of diabetes. This study was aimed to study the effects of empagliflozin on patients with type II diabetes mellitus in tertiary care Hospital, Nepal.
Methods: A hospital based prospective follow up study with purposive sampling was carried out for a period of six months from July to December 2022. A representative sample of more than 110 from prescriptions of T2DM patients aged between 20 to 60 years were observed for demographic details (age, sex, body weight, body height, body mass index (BMI) etc.), Hb1AC level, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), postprandial plasma glucose (after 2 hours) (PPG), blood pressure (SBP and DBP), adverse effects and an interview was conducted with Endocrinologist as well as patients who receive empagliflozin for first time and data were analyzed by using applicable statistical tolls.
Results: A total of 215 patients were prescribed empagliflozin 10mg tablet out of which only 110 patients came for the follow up at 6 months. Hence, 110 respondents completed the study with in the study period (n=110). Out of 110 patients, 56 (50.9%) were male and 54(49.1%) were female. The majority of patients belonged to the age group 51-60 years 55 (50%) with mean age of 48.89±8.81 years. The mean diabetic duration was 7 years. After 6 months of empagliflozin therapy there was significantly reduction in weight, BMI, blood pressure, anthropometric values (HbA1c, FPG, and PPG) with some suspected side effects were also observed.
Conclusion: Thus, the main aim of this research was to study the effects of empagliflozin on patients with type II diabetes mellitus in tertiary care Hospital, Nepal. The outcomes of this research will be used as the reference for the preparation of diabetes treatment guidelines, regimens and related policies in the future.
Open Microdiscectomy or Tubular Discectomy: What Is Better for Lumbar Disc Herniation
Authors: Gupta Sajag Kumar , Faheem Mohd
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Many different minimally invasive procedures can be used to treat lumbar disc herniation. In the management of lumbar disc herniation, Open microdiscectomy MD is the gold standard and is used as a benchmark for comparison with more recent techniques like tubular discectomy. The purpose of this study was to assess the complication rates of tubular discectomy and to compare the postoperative outcomes of individuals undergoing tubular discectomy with those undergoing MD.
Material & Methods: A retrospective analysis of 250 patients who underwent single-level lumbar discectomy either by tubular TD or MD between JULY 2018- JUNE 2023 was performed. The differences in the 2 groups' demographics, surgical length, intraoperative blood loss, overall hospital stay, pain score on the visual analogue scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score both before and after the procedure, and complications were assessed.
Results: Out of the 250 patients, 130 patients were treated with MD and 120 by tubular discectomy TD. The mean age in MD and tubular TD group was 45.5 and 45.8 years. There was a improvement in VAS and ODI scores at 4 weeks in both the groups. There was a greater reduction of back pain in the TD group at 2 weeks compared to MD group but at 1 month both are comparable. Average surgical time was shorter in MD (71.6 min) as compared to TD group (80.2 min). the Average blood loss was higher (90.2 mL) in MD group as compared to TD group (35.8 mL) (Table 3 ). Length of incision as measured from the surgical scar was 1.7 cm in TD while it was 3.0 cm in MD group. Average hospital length of stay in TD (1.2 days) which was less than MD group (2.1 days). Likewise, MD group patients took 5.9 weeks to return to activity which was higher than the TD group (4.1 weeks). There were 9 cases (6.9%) of dural tear in MD and 10 cases (8.3%) in TD group.
Conclusion: Sciatica caused by disc herniation can be effectively and safely treated with lumbar discectomy, whether it is TD or MD. In comparison to MD, the TD method for treating symptomatic lumbar radiculopathy is superior in that it causes less postoperative back pain, less blood loss, a shorter hospital stay, and a quicker return to work. Despite the learning curve, TD has been demonstrated to be a viable choice for treating lumbar disc herniation in patients who are carefully chosen.
Role of short term Video EEG monitoring and MRI in refractory Epilepsy
Authors: Kumari D.V. Madhavi , Kumari Aruna , Kumar Sateesh , Seepana Gopi , Raju G. Butchi
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Inpatient video EEG monitoring is widely used for the diagnosis, seizure classification and pre surgical evaluation of patients with epilepsy. Only few studies have highlighted the role of short term video EEG in the diagnosis of paroxysmal events. The present study was undertaken to identify the role of short term video EEG in refractory epilepsy.
Materials & Methods: Forty patients, attending neurology outpatient department in our institution, during the study period, fulfilling the criteria for refractory epilepsy were included. Short term video EEG and MRI Brain were done for all of them. Outcomes measured were 1) Video recording of epileptic seizures with concurrent ictal pattern or psychogenic non epileptic seizure. 2) Identification of new interictal epileptiform discharges, which were not there in the previous routine EEG. 3) Observation of congruency between EEG and MRI Brain.
Results: Clinical events were recorded in 12.5% of patients - 7.5% had epileptic seizures and 5% had psychogenic non epileptic seizures recorded. Short term video EEG was abnormal in 70% of the patients, whereas previous routine EEG was abnormal in only 30% and these observations were statistically significant. Short term video EEG was useful in diagnostic classification in 70% of the cases. MRI Brain was abnormal in 35% and among them, 30% had lateralized epiletiform discharges and the congruency between them is not statistically significant.
Conclusions: Short term video EEG monitoring could be an initial investigation to sort our more frequent seizure group and proceed to long term VEEG if short term VEEG is inconclusive.
Central Nervous System Melanoma: Report of two cases
Authors: Karki Prasanna , Shakya Rupesh , Acharya Shoshan Raj , Sharma Apurva , Joshi Sumit , Paudel Prakash , Bikram Shah Damber , Sharma Gopal Raman
Published: March 2024

Primary brain melanomas are exceedingly rare, and metastasis outside of the central nervous system is an uncommon occurrence. The patients initially presented with an intraparenchymal hematoma with associated symptoms. Extensive diagnostic tests did not reveal any tumor-related or vascular patterns contributing to these bleedings. A comprehensive surgical resection was conducted, and the diagnosis of Central Nervous System (CNS) melanoma was confirmed through histological examination. Despite the generally poor prognosis associated with malignant melanomas, the combination of complete surgical resection and emerging therapies is extending overall survival and enhancing the quality of life. In cases where primary brain melanoma is suspected, even in the presence of extracerebral metastasis, aggressive treatment may be a viable consideration.
Augmenting Cerebral Perfusion Via Bypass Technique in symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic disease
Authors: Rajbhandari Pravesh
Published: March 2024

In Nepal, acute ischemic stroke (AIS) holds the sobering distinction of being the fifth leading cause of mortality and the third most prevalent source of disability. This underscores a pressing health concern that demands attention and proactive measures to address its impact on public well-being. Nepal is amidst a swift epidemiological shift, witnessing a surge in stroke and noncommunicable diseases due to rapid urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and poor dietary habits. Urgent measures are essential to address this burgeoning public health challenge.
Students’ Satisfaction on Service Quality at Prithvi Narayan Multiple Campus of Tribhuvan University in Nepal
Authors: Adhikari Santosh
Published: March 2024

This study examines the students’ satisfaction on service quality of PNC. The main objective of the study is to analyze the major influencing factors of academic aspect of service quality, to measure the relationship of academic aspect of service quality with students’ satisfaction and to analyze the impact of academic aspects on students’ satisfaction on service quality. Philosophical foundation of this research is based on positivist research paradigm. Based on the philosophical foundation, this research has used descriptive and analytical research design. Using multi-phase sampling technique, this study reveals major influencing factor of academic aspect of service quality is quality of lecturers. The overall students’ satisfaction towards service quality provided by PNC is more than average. The learning environment of academic aspect has more influence in students’ satisfaction. Overall, there is high degree of positive correlation between academic aspect of service quality and students’ satisfaction. For academic aspect of service quality, only learning environment shows a statistically significant impact on students’ satisfaction. This study shows that academic aspects of service quality have positive impact on students’ satisfaction.
Challenges of Teaching Reading: A Case of University English Reading Courses
Authors: Adhikari Bal Ram , Shrestha Kumar Narayan
Published: March 2024

The centrality of reading in students’ academic performance has been well-established in the literature. As a learned skill, reading is acquired in an instructional setting and students’ ability to comprehend and interact with texts is largely shaped by reading instruction. The efficacy of reading instruction is subject to varied factors that stand as challenges to be overcome. This study aimed to explore the challenges experienced by university teachers in teaching reading to B.Ed. English major students. To this end, the study adopted a case study design that comprised purposively selected four university English teachers teaching English reading courses at a constituent campus of Tribhuvan University, and eight B.Ed. English majors from the same campus. The data were collected through a combination of three qualitative methods: classroom observation, semi-structured interview and focus group discussion. The findings revealed students having no coursebooks and relying on other substandard reading materials, students’ poor reading habits, students’ limited vocabulary knowledge, strategically untrained students, and the length of courses and texts as major challenges faced by teachers in teaching the prescribed reading courses. Drawing on these findings, implications for reading pedagogy are considered.
Physico-Chemical Quality Assessment of Ground Water in Kathmandu Valley and Siraha District
Authors: Belbase Basanti , Bhandari Niru , Paudyal Nishan , Paudyal Bhola Nath , Shah Pradeep K.
Published: March 2024

A key element in maintaining human health is the quality of drinking water which is a vital component of natural resources. This study was conducted to assess the ground water quality in the Kathmandu Valley and Siraha district from October 2022 to March 2023 in the Water Engineering and Training Centre, Ratopul, Kathmandu. A total of 123 water samples were collected from various wells and borings around the Kathmandu Valley and Siraha district and were subjected to physicochemical investigation following the standard techniques for water sample collection and analyzed by methods as described in the American Public Health Association (1998). The pH, conductivity, turbidity, ammonia concentration, and iron content were found to exceed National Drinking Water Quality Standard guidelines value in 21.95%, 3.25 %, 53.65 %, 47.15 %, and 18.7 % of total water samples respectively. All water samples had total hardness and chloride levels within the acceptable range. The arsenic content of all samples except one well water sample from Siraha was found within a permissible level. The findings suggest that water quality is not satisfactory, which could lead to various water-borne illnesses. Therefore, proper water purification techniques should be used before consumption.
Health Status of Senior Citizens of Dalit and Non-Dalit Community
Authors: Nepali Jagdish Chandra
Published: March 2024

The study investigates the distinctive characteristics of senior citizens, with a focus on Dalit and Non-Dalit communities in Malarani Rural Municipality, Nepal. Covering demographics, socio-economic factors, and health statuses, the research involves 430 individuals aged 60 and above. Historical marginalization of Dalit’s raises the possibility of unique challenges for them in aging. The utilizing chi-square tests, identifies significant associations between various factors, such as age, literacy, income, and health, among Dalit and Non-Dalit individuals. The chi square analysis underscores the impact of age, literacy, education, religion, employment, income, retirement, and blood pressure on senior citizens in Dalit and Non Dalit communities. Notably, possession of assets, land, home, and other variables showed no significant differences between the age (60-64 to 85+) groups. The study suggests that intergenerational programs and active aging initiatives can enhance the well-being of older adults and foster inclusive communities. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for addressing the distinct needs of senior citizens, particularly those from historically marginalized communities.
Social Media as a Learning Platform for EFL Learning: A Case of Undergraduate Students
Authors: Pandey Madhukar
Published: March 2024

Social media is one of the most popular learning platforms among youths, especially for the university level EFL students. The paper aims to explore how undergraduate level EFL students in a university utilize social media to improve their English writing skills. Using a meta-analysis approach, seventeen peer-researched articles published in the last five years were downloaded from google scholar and closely reviewed. Based on the review, the study concluded that social media was used as one of the informal learning platforms for writing in English. Students were reported to have been engaged in independent writing in social media while communicating with their peers, and relatives, thereby developing confidence in writing in English, though the use of more informal language structures were preferred. The findings of the study imply that higher engagement of EFL students in social media communication positively impacts their writing skills, so institutions are to increase the use of ICT in their pedagogical practices for students’ meaningful learning.
Strategi Kepala Madrasah dalam Meningkatkan Budaya Literasi di Madrasah Tsanawiyah
Authors: Bajuri Bajuri , Barnoto
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this study was to determine the role of the madrasah head in increasing literacy culture at MTs Sunan Ampel KumpuIrejo Parengan Tuban, to find out the supporting and inhibiting factors in increasing the iteration culture at MTs Sunan Ampel KumpuIrejo Parengan Tuban, to find out the strategy for increasing literacy culture in increasing interest in reading at MTs Sunan Ampel Kumpulrejo Parengan Tuban. This study uses a qualitative approach in which this approach produces descriptive data in the form of written or spoken words from people and observable behavior. The results of this study indicate that: 1) The role of the madrasa head is as an educator, manager, administrator, supervisor, leader, innovator, and motivator. 2) There are several supporting and inhibiting factors in developing a literacy culture. Supporting factors include The active role of madrasa residents, Support from parents of students. In addition, there are several inhibiting factors, namely: limited collection, and the influence of technology. 3) In developing a literacy culture, the head of MTs Sunan Ampel has several strategies used including Developing a library, Providing fiction, non-fiction, and reference books. Development of reading areas, 15-minute reading program, Development of literacy-themed madrasah activity programs.
Peran Guru Pendidikan Agama Islam Dalam Menanggulangi Perilaku Menyimpang Pada Peserta Didik
Authors: Aisah Siti , Usman Fadly
Published: March 2024

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk: 1) Mengetahui bentuk-bentuk dan faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi perilaku menyimpang peserta didik Mts Hasyim Asy’ari Sidoarjo. 2) Mengetahui peran guru PAI dalam menanggulangi perilaku menyimpang peserta didik Mts Hasyim Asy’ari Sidoarjo. Metode pada penelitian ini menggunakan Metode Kualitatif yang bersifat deskriptif. Adapun teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah wawancara, observasi dan dokumentasi. Data bersumber dari Kepala Sekolah, Wakil Kepala Sekolah bidang Kesiswaan, dan guru Pendidikan Agama Islam. Teknik analisis data yang dipakai pada penelitian ini ialah teknik analisis interaktif dari Miles dan Hubermas yang terdiri dari reduksi data, penyajian data serta penarikan kesimpulan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa gambaran bentuk-bentuk perilaku menyimpang pada peserta didik di MTs Hasyim Asy’ari Sidoarjo dibagi dalam beberapa ketegori berikut ini: kategori ringan; kelengkapan seragam tidak sesuai aturan disiplin sekolah, berambut panjang bagi Laki-Laki, berhias berlebihan bagi Perempuan, tidur di dalam kelas, terlambat masuk sekolah, membolos (pulang lebih awal), dan berada di kantin pada waktu jam pelajaran. Kategori sedang; Tutur bahasa yang kurang sopan, membuat gaduh ketika proses KBM berlangsung, dan membawa HP serta aksesoris. Kategori berat yaitu; berkelahi, memalak, dan bullying. Hal demikian dipengaruhi oleh faktor internal maupun eksternal. Adapun Peran guru Pendidikan Agama Islam dalam menanggulangi perilaku menyimpang adalah: Pertama, (melakukan tindakan represif) yaitu dengan cara menunda dan menahan perilaku menyimpang peserta didik atau menghalangi timbulnya perilaku menyimpang yang lebih parah serta memberikan bimbingan dan nasehat, menegakkan disiplin sekolah, penerapan sanksi dan pemanggilan orang tua. Kedua, melakukan tindakan kuratif yaitu dengan cara memberikan skorsing dan pengembalian peserta didik kepada orang tua. Ketiga, upaya melakukan pendekatan agama kepada peserta didik, sebagaimana yang telah dilakukan oleh narasumber yakni mengajarkan dan mengajak siswa untuk melakukan hal-hal yang bernuansa agamis. Hal ini didasari atas keyakinan bahwa hal tersebut mampu menjadikan hati siswa lunak sehingga mudah untuk dinasehati dan diarahkan menjadi pribadi yang lebih baik.
Islamic Boarding School Management in Forming The Religious Character of Students
Authors: Komarodin Moh , Rofiq Ainur
Published: March 2024

Education has a very strong position in preparing humans to live perfectly and happily. Coaching and monitoring for 24 hours for students is carried out by the Al-Hajar Karemejo Islamic Boarding School which is aimed at fostering their personality. This study aims to: 1) Explain the planning of Islamic boarding schools in improving the religious character of students, 2) Describe the management of Islamic boarding schools in improving the religious character of students, 3) Describe the supervision of Islamic boarding schools in improving the religious character of students, 4) Describe the evaluation of Islamic boarding schools in improving the character of Islamic boarding schools. religious students. The type of research used in this research is qualitative research with a case study approach and the data collection techniques used are observation, documentation, and interviews. The results of this study include 1) Islamic boarding school planning in improving the religious character of students, 2) Management of Islamic boarding schools in improving the religious character of students, 3) Supervision of Islamic boarding schools in improving the religious character of students, 4) Evaluation of Islamic boarding schools in improving the religious character of students.
Development of Islamic Educational Institutions in Increasing Competitiveness in Madrasah Tsanawiyah
Authors: Rosyadi Imron , Aprilianto Andika , Rofiq Muhammad Husnur
Published: March 2024

Description of the subject's behavior processes according to the focus of the problem under study. The technique of collecting data uses observation, interviews, and documentation. The data used are primary and secondary data. To check the validity of the data using the triangulation method. The data analysis technique uses descriptive techniques with four steps, namely: (1) data collection or data collection (2) data reduction or data reduction (3) display data or data presentation (4) conclusion. The results showed that currently the MTs. Al-Hasanuddin of Pasuruan City, the concept of school development in improving competitiveness is in accordance with the concept of vision, mission, and objectives, quality of learning in accordance with the national curriculum, outstanding students both academically and non-academically An Nashr in understanding the Qur'an, improving facilities and infrastructure with stakeholder participation. The implementation of a curriculum administration strategy that is good for improving the quality of human resources (teachers and students), implementing discipline of teachers and students, establishing good relations with local communities, involving local communities in school activities, then improving quality with 14 steps according to Crosby, and Implications in this study in the form of customer satisfaction, a climate that is conducive, pleasant, orderly and quality in accordance with the expectations of the community so that it can attract market attention (community) to send their children to school at Al-Hasanuddin Junior High School, Pasuruan City.
Management of Islamic Boarding School Shapes the Character of Santri Discipline
Authors: Berkah Dian , Zamroni M. Afif
Published: March 2024

This research aims to describe the implementation of student discipline at the Assyariatul Uluum Islamic Boarding School. This research used qualitative research, and data collection was carried out through interviews, observation, and documentation, all of which were used to answer questions about the management of student discipline at the Assyariatul Uluum Sumedang Islamic Boarding School. Findings in the management of Santri discipline, including Planning for Santri discipline at the Assyariatul Uluum Sumedang Islamic Boarding School, including a) formulating Santri discipline goals by the vision, mission, and objectives of the Assyariatul Uluum Sumedang Islamic Boarding School; b) make disciplinary regulations for students; c) create guidelines for violations along with sanctions that will be given to disciplinary violators; and d) determine a schedule of student disciplinary activities. The implementation of Santri discipline at the Assyariatul Uluum Islamic Boarding School includes: 1) Providing direction regarding Santri discipline. 2) Motivate students regarding student discipline. 3) Lead the course of student discipline. 4) Communicate with students to provide an understanding of student discipline. 5) Make decisions regarding student disciplinary violations.