bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Musicians and the lifetime soundtrack
Authors: Istvandity Lauren
Published: September 2023

In addition to encountering music in everyday situations, musicians perform, compose, arrange, contemplate, and study music in a way that is integral to their everyday lives. This paper draws together ideas of autobiographical memory and musicianship via an examination of the ways in which musicians create and interpret musically triggered autobiographical memories. Using original interview narratives, the paper argues that the dual roles of producer and consumer typically played by musicians contribute to a specialised relationship between music and memory for this group. This includes discussions of concepts of identity, creative labour, emotion, and embodiment that combine to produce particular interactions for individuals.
An interview with Jonathan Crayford
Authors: Meehan Norman
Published: September 2023

In this Riff article, Norman Lawrence Meehan documents Jonathan Crayford’s recollections of how he established himself on the New York music scene during the 1990s. Crayford’s remarks traverse some of the myriad factors that obtain for musicians as they try to break into that scene.
Administracyjno-prawne aspekty przewozu malarskich dzieł sztuki w Polsce
Authors:   Instytut Filozofii Uniwersytet Rzeszowski, Góźdź Szymon
Published: September 2023

This article states cross-sectional review of selected related issues with the process of carriage painted works of art in Poland, with particular emphasis on administrative and legal aspects, as a whole organizing a number of practical activities related to the logistics of the transport process.
Propozycje wzmacniania uczciwej konkurencji poprzez platformy konkurowania branżowego
Authors:   Kierownik Zakładu Prawa Gospodarczego Instytut Nauk Prawnych Uniwersytet Rzeszowski, Olszewski Jan
Published: September 2023

The publication contains an innovative proposal for the introduction into Polish law of two legal institutions that will support fair competition. These institutions will concern the so -called platform competition, which is not widely known in Poland (especially recently promoted by the EU Commission). In the article, the author first describes for whom these new information resources will be directed, then suggests their thematic scope. Importantly, he also suggests how to create new structures of presentation, so as to facilitate comparison. Finally, he shows how to ensure that only useful information resources are placed on these platforms, i.e. only those which can be used to compare offers. The first solution is to introduce directly on the platform several new information obligations. They will facilitate the comparison of even very complex offers. The second proposal relates to the institution of accreditation, that is, to create new mandatory and cyclical evaluations of larger entrepreneurs in specific industries, performed by accreditation bodies. The author proposes that, following the example of higher education, such accreditations would be performed only by independent bodies, with experts with a high level of knowledge. In the publication, both new solutions are not only thoroughly described, but for rapid implementation, the article also gives the existing legal constructions, which can be quickly adapted.
Konieczność zastosowania kanonicznego zdarzenia utraty stanu duchownego dla wyrejestrowania osoby duchownej z ubezpieczeń społecznych. Glosa aprobująca do wyroku Sądu Apelacyjnego w Rzeszowie – III Wydział Pracy i Ubezpieczeń Społecznych z dnia 21 sierpnia 2013 roku, III AUa 468/13
Authors:   Instytut Prawa Akademia Kujawsko-Pomorska w Bydgoszczy, Rakoczy Tomasz
Published: September 2023

The commented judgement concerns the need to apply the term of canon law, which is the loss of the clerical state to determinate deregistration from compulsory insurance security. It should be identified with the statutory deadline for resignation from the clerical state. The legislator recognized the autonomy of the Catholic Church and rightly applied the terms defined by it. In this respect, he defined both the group of clergy subject to insurance, the moment of coverage of insurance obligation, as well as the event that indicates deregistration from insurance. It is not sufficient for exclusion from insurance a unilateral declaration of resignation from clerical state or pastoral functions undertaken, as the appellant believes. They have no effect in the forum of canon law and have no consequences in social insurance law.
Utopia Now and Forever: A Discussion On The Perpetuity Of Utopia
Authors: ÖREN Ezgi
Published: September 2023

The history of humanity is, in a way, the history of the chaos that is immanent in society. People have endless desires that could never be satisfied since they lived in society. The demand for a better life is one of the foremost desires. This quest, which has been lasting since the beginning of social life has been tried to be met with a wide variety of solutions throughout history. Perhaps the most striking of these propositions is Utopia, which took the stage with the Renaissance. It emphasizes the reality of the moment, criticizes it, and replaces it with an alternative that never comes true. Utopia is one of the ideal order proposals which is put forward in response to the desire for an "ideal life without chaos" for "now". It embodies hope and change. It promises hope even when the prospect of changing the facts seems impossible. It also feeds and reproduces the optimistic desire for the realization possibility of a better life. This is what keeps it alive at all times, even though it will not be realized and inaccessible. Therefore, there is always a need to review utopias to redesign the world we live in with a critical eye. Observing and understanding these experiences and trying to put new designs over them could be promising. Because utopias are an important means of stimulating socioeconomic changes. For this reason, even if it does not come true, the utopia that makes an impact with its thoughts will always continue to be a hope. So, it will exist forever and ever. To clarify this approach, the relations between scientific texts have been examined by using the literature review method. And relevant analyzes and inferences have been made in the light of the data obtained by this method.
Indicadores químicos de la salud del suelo en sistemas silvopastoriles, bosque de restauración y cultivo de maíz en un bosque seco tropical
Authors: Ocampo Lucia E. , Osorio Walter , Martínez Judith , Cabrera Kenneth Roy
Published: September 2023

Los cultivos agrícolas y pasturas en monocultivo frecuentemente comprometen servicios ecosistémicos por la pérdida de suelos y biodiversidad. Como alternativa en la producción ganadera se han propuesto los sistemas silvopastoriles (SSP); sin embargo, hay pocos estudios que demuestren los beneficios de estos sobre la salud del suelo. Este estudio tuvo como propósito evaluar el efecto de diferentes usos de la tierra sobre la salud del suelo medida a través de indicadores químicos. Para tal fin, se usaron parcelas con al menos 19 años bajo los siguientes usos: (i) cultivo intensivo de maíz (Zea mays), (ii) pastura mixta de gramíneas (Megathyrsus maximus + Dichantium aristatum), (iii) SSP con pastos + arbustos (Cresentia cujete y Leucaena leucocephala), (iv) SSP multiestrato con los mismos pastos + leñosas de uso forrajero (Cassia grandis, Albizia saman y Guazuma ulmifolia) y (v) bosque secundario de restauración como referencia. Las evaluaciones se hicieron en épocas contrastantes (seca y lluviosa), en suelos del Valle medio del rio Sinú (Colombia), con gradiente de drenaje. En general, los suelos de los SSP presentaron los más altos indicadores químicos: MOS, N total, Mg, B, N-NO3 y CICE; la pastura de solo gramíneas presentó los mayores valores en micronutrientes: Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn y S, y NH4 y valores más bajos de pH, P, y NO3 y más altos de Al. El bosque secundario presentó valores intermedios para todos los indicadores, mientras que los suelos con maíz presentaron los indicadores químicos más pobres. Se concluye que los SSP mejoran los indicadores químicos de salud del suelo en comparación a la pastura de solo gramíneas y el monocultivo de maíz.
Juegos de guerra para Fuerzas Especiales. Análisis del caso colombiano
Authors: Montero-Moncada Luis-Alexander , Díaz Jesús-María , Mejía Jorge-Luis
Published: September 2023

El presente artículo tiene por objeto evaluar las condiciones de formación virtual en juegos de guerra o ejercicios de simulación que tienen los oficiales de Fuerzas Especiales que integran el Curso de Estado Mayor de la Escuela Superior de Guerra de Colombia. La metodología propuesta se sustenta en el estudio de caso, en el marco de la educación basada en la experimentación y simulación de situaciones de crisis en entornos virtuales. Las conclusiones se centran en la necesidad de reevaluar los ejercicios de simulación existentes –que son escasos–, de manera que se fortalezcan las competencias propias de un oficial de Fuerzas Especiales, o de crear ejercicios nuevos y específicos para el entorno de las operaciones especiales.
Buscando al enemigo: comunicación política y estratégica del gobierno mexicano ante la guerra Rusia-Ucrania
Authors: Coloma Claudio , Urcid-Puga Rodrigo
Published: September 2023

Este artículo estudia los mensajes del gobierno de México acerca de la invasión de Rusia a Ucrania desde la perspectiva de la comunicación política estratégica. Se lleva a cabo un análisis del discurso, como parte del cual se evalúan las declaraciones del presidente Andrés Manuel López Obrador y comunicados oficiales, para determinar los propósitos políticos de los mensajes que estos actores articulan en torno a dicho conflicto. En el marco teórico se definen los aspectos de la comunicación estratégica, la comunicación política, y los estudios sobre la guerra y su relación con la política exterior. El análisis empírico se basa en declaraciones obtenidas de las páginas oficiales del gobierno mexicano entre febrero de 2022 (el inicio de la guerra) y mayo de 2023. El análisis de estas fuentes permite determinar que el gobierno ha tenido una estrategia de comunicación con fines políticos tanto internacionales como nacionales. La principal contribución del estudio es revelar el uso político que el gobierno la ha dado a la guerra para contribuir a su legitimación interna. Se concluye que el gobierno transmite sus mensajes de forma estratégica, no neutral, creando una asociación arbitraria entre esta guerra y la coyuntura política mexicana.
Electrochemical Dopamine Detection Using Palladium/Carbon Nano Onion Hybrids
Authors: IPEKCI Hasan Hüseyin
Published: September 2023

In the given study, palladium-decorated carbon nano-onion nanostructures (Pd/CNO) were used as an electrochemical catalyst for detecting dopamine (DA). The physicochemical properties of the Pd/SO3H/CNO-based catalysts were studied by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) methods. Pd/SO3H/CNO inks were dropped cast on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) to prepare the electrochemical DA sensors. The sensor performance was performed using cyclic voltammetry (CV), differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The electroanalytical results indicated a LOD value of 2.44 M and the linear range of the sensors were found to be between 10 and 400 M DA. The enhanced electrocatalytic activity toward DA is attributed to the high active surface area, conductivity of CNO and the high electrocatalytic property of Pd. The results suggest that Pd/SO3H/CNO nanostructures can be used to detect electrochemical DA sensors with high selectivity, sensitivity, and low LOD.
Interaction of GHK Tripeptide with Receptors Targeted in Some Cancer Studies: A Theoretical Approach with Molecular Docking
Authors: BIÇAK Bilge , GUNDUZ Serda Kecel
Published: September 2023

Cancer, defined as the uncontrolled growth and proliferation of cells, is a serious disease seen in many people around the world. For this reason, a lot of work has been done and continues to be done by scientists for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. It is known that various receptors are targeted in studies on cancers. In this study, ER, PR, EGFR and HER2 receptors, which are among the most frequently used target receptors, were selected. GHK is a tripeptide that has important benefits such as increasing cancer resistance and reversing cancer cells. In this study, the complex structures formed by the most commonly used target receptors (ER, PR, EGFR and HER2) and the GHK tripeptide were examined. These complex structures were obtained by molecular docking method that is a molecular modeling method used to predict how a receptor interacts with small molecules. As a result of the study, binding affinities, close interactions, and interaction types of GHK and receptors were determined, and interaction profiles with various drugs (such as tamoxifen, erlotinib and neratinib) in the literature were examined comparatively. In the light of the findings
obtained in the studies, it was determined that the GHK tripeptide gave similar interaction profiles with the drugs used in cancer treatment.
Statistical analysis of karst springs in Lower Austria
Authors: Schmalfuss Clemens , Plan Lukas , Pavuza Rudolf
Published: September 2023

Karst springs play a central role in Austria’s water supply. This paper aims to provide an overview of the karst springs of Lower Austria, analysing statistical correlations of spatial distribution, discharge, electrical conductivity (EC), and temperature. As part of a project with the provincial government of Lower Austria, older data from numerous studies have been combined with the self-generated data in a GIS database. This database contains data on 2056 karst springs. Most of the recorded springs are located in the Northern Calcareous Alps, although karst springs also occur in the Central Alpine Permomesozoic, the Waschberg zone and the Bohemian Massif, some of which are also of regional importance for drinking water supply. Chemical analyses show that limestone, dolomite and mixed springs are widespread in Lower Austria and occur with similar frequency. Gypsum springs, which are characterised by a significantly higher total mineral-isation, are also of regional importance. The statistical analysis shows that spring water temperatures correlate well with the mean annual air temperature at the mean catchment elevation. The temperature decrease with increasing elevation corresponds to the air temperature gradient in the Eastern Alps (0.47 °C/100 m). In addition, the springs show a negative correlation of the EC with the mean catchment elevation, which can be explained by a decrease in soil cover and thus reduced CO2 uptake of the water, as well as dilution by rainwater. This leads to less carbonate dissolution, which is also reflected in less HCO3
− contents. Corrected for the elevation effect, the investigated dolomite springs, have on average a 2.7% higher EC than limestone springs. A difference was also found between the Hauptdolomit and the Wettersteindolomit rock types, which are widespread in Lower Austria, with the latter displaying higher values on average by 2.2%. This indicates longer residence times of the spring water due to less karstification of the Wettersteindolomit.
CITY DIPLOMACY AGAINST THE GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE THREAT: U20 CASE STUDY
Authors: Alkanalka Mehmet
Published: September 2023

City diplomacy has turned to new searches in the 21st century to get results especially in the fight against global climate change, while it had a lower profile application area in international relations in the 20th century. The research question of this article, in the Age of Transboundary Crises, is to examine why cities need to be involved in solving global problems and their capacity to contribute in the U20 case study. This study aims to contribute to the international relations city diplomacy literature by examining Urban 20 (U20) with the case study method. The biggest difference of the 21st century from previous centuries is that the problems are transboundary and global, as in the examples of global warming and the Corona pandemic, and the motivation to act jointly takes priority because no international organization, state or other actors can solve these problems alone. In this article, brief information about city diplomacy and international local diplomacy organizations is given at first, and then, it is concluded that cooperation between cities can be beneficial in combating global problems with multi-layered stag hunt theory. It is also concluded that city diplomacy has a limited effect on international relations and does not have a legal sanction power.
EFFECTS OF THE RUSSIA-UKRAINE WAR ON TÜRKİYE’S FOREIGN TRADE AND TOURISM SECTOR
Authors: Çatuk Cüneyt
Published: September 2023

With the introduction of political and economic penalties, wars between nations now take on a new dimension. Unlike the First and Second World Wars, as portrayed by political personalities, the Third World War tries to neutralize each other through economic penalties. The most recent examples of this include the recent conflict between Russia and Ukraine and the sanctions put on Russia by the United States, the European Union, and other nations. This study aims to analyze the impact of the war between Russia and Ukraine on Turkey's foreign trade. The common category that Turkey imports most from Ukraine and Russia is cereals. In this chapter, the conflict will have the greatest impact on Turkey. The impact of the current conflict between Russia and Ukraine on the Turkish economy is examined in this study using information from the Turkish Statistical Institute (TurkStat) and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. As a result of the study, despite Turkey's reliance on Russia and Ukraine, its most significant advantage is that it is not reliant on raw material exports and has a diverse product infrastructure.
Kinetics of Tannin Reduction in Soaked and Unsoaked Velvet Beans Treated by Microwave Treatment
Authors: Al-Rawashdeh Mustafa S.
Published: September 2023

The effect of microwave treatment on the kinetics of tannin reduction in black and white colored velvet bean (soaked and unsoaked) was evaluated. The objective of this study was to determine the association level and the kinetics of tannin reduction in velvet beans after being treated with microwave treatment in order to find the appropriate time treatment useful for poultry health. Tannin content reduction rate was nicely fitted by linear regression analysis with association value (r) ranging from 0.96-0.98. Linear regression analysis suggests a zero-ordered kinetics which means that the decline rate of tannins after exposure to microwave treatment is independent of the initial tannin concentration.  In both colored velvet bean (black and white), the tannin reduction rate of unsoaked seeds was lower than that of soaked seeds. According to literature findings regarding the positive role of tannins level in poultry, it can be concluded from this study that the exposure of velvet bean to microwave treatment for more than 12 minutes may eliminate the positive effect of tannin on poultry.
ICT-driven Transparency: Empirical Evidence from Selected Asian Countries
Authors: Hussain Ajmal
Published: September 2023

We are living in the digital era and ICTs have become necessities in this contemporary world. The aim of this study is to investigate transparency in Asia through ICT’s diffusion by using Driscoll-Kraay standard error technique. We used panel data for 17 Asian countries from 2010 to 2019 and we use control of corruption as a proxy for transparency checking. The results show that ICTs leave a positive effect on the control of corruption. Other determinants of transparency in this paper, such as political stability and effective governance, have a positive effect on control of corruption. ICT policy can play an important role in curbing corruption. So, there is a strong need for ICT diffusion, suggesting that effective governance helped to reduce corruption in the Asian region and establish a surveillance-based system in public institutions.
Big Data Analytics in Tracking COVID-19 Spread Utilizing Google Location Data
Authors: Yaw Mei Wyin , Krishnan Prajindra Sankar , Chen Chai Phing , Tiong Sieh Kiong
Published: September 2023

According to mobility data that records mobility traffic using location trackers on mobile phones, the COVID-19 epidemic and the adoption of social distance policies have drastically altered people’s visiting patterns. However, rather than the volume of visitors, the transmission is controlled by the frequency and length of concurrent occupation at particular places. Therefore, it is essential to comprehend how people interact in various settings in order to focus legislation, guide contact tracking, and educate prevention initiatives. This study suggests an effective method for reducing the virus’s propagation among university students enrolled on-campus by creating a self-developed Google History Location Extractor and Indicator software based on actual data on people’s movements. The platform enables academics and policymakers to model the results of human mobility and the epidemic condition under various epidemic control measures and assess the potential for future advancements in the epidemic’s spread. It provides tools for identifying prospective contacts, analyzing individual infection risks, and reviewing the success of campus regulations. By more precisely focusing on probable virus carriers during the screening process, the suggested multi-functional platform makes it easier to decide on epidemic control measures, ultimately helping to manage and avoid future outbreaks.
Anadolu karaçamı (Pinus nigra Arnold. subsp. pallasiana (Lamb.) Holmboe) meşcerelerinde tek ağaçta kabuk kalınlığı değişiminin incelenmesi: Isparta yöresi örneği
Authors: ULUSAN Musa Denizhan , ELER Ünal
Published: September 2023

Bu çalışma Isparta Yöresi Doğal Anadolu Karaçamı (Pinus nigra Arnold. subsp. pallasiana (Lamb.) Holmboe) meşçerelerinde tek ağaçta kabuk kalınlığının değişimini belirlemek amacıyla yürütülmüştür. Karaçam kalın kabuklu bir tür olması sebebiyle, hacim, hacim artımı ve eta için verilen değerlerin daha sağlıklı olarak ortaya koyulabilmesi ve eğer gelecekte kabuktan faydalanma ile ilgili teknolojik gelişimler söz konusu olursa, envanter değerlerinin belirlenmesi gibi sebeplerden ötürü kabuk kalınlığı çalışmaları bakımından önem arz eden bir türdür. Bu doğrultuda çalışma kapsamında genç ve yaşlı ağaçlar için farklı boy gruplarında göğüs çapı ve kabuk payı ile kesit yüksekliği ile kabuk kalınlığı parametreleri arasındaki ilişkiler regresyon analizi yöntemi ile değerlendirilmiştir. Elde edilen sonuçlar hem göğüs çapı ile kabuk payı arasında hem de kesit yüksekliği ile kabuk kalınlığı arasında ağaç yaşları be boy grupları bakımından istatistiksel olarak farklar olduğunu ortaya koymuştur.
Müşterilerin açık artırmalı tomruk satışlarından beklentileri: Ankara Orman Bölge Müdürlüğü örneği
Authors: KAYA Güven , OK Kenan , KULAÇ Celal
Published: September 2023

Bu çalışma, Ankara Orman Bölge Müdürlüğünde (OBM) açık artırmalı endüstriyel odun satışlarına katılan müşterilerin özelliklerini, tomruk satış ve satış partilerinden talep, beklenti ve memnuniyetlerini ve sorunlarını öğrenmeyi amaçlamıştır. Araştırma verileri, Mart 2017-Mayıs 2018 arasındaki 14 aylık süreçte gerçekleşen 54 açık artırmalı satışın dosyaları, iki ayrı anket çalışması ve depo gözlemlerinden toplanmıştır. Bu satışlara katılan 147 müşteri ile “satış anket” 37 firma ile ise geçerli “firma anket” çalışması yapılmış, depolardaki, 1840 satış partisinin kalitesine ilişkin gözlem gerçekleştirilmiştir. Ankara OBM tomruk satışlarının alıcılarının, genelde tomruk işleyen bölge orman endüstri kuruluşları olduğu fakat bu müşterilerin yakın diğer bölgelerden de alım yaptığı görülmüştür. Müşterilerin satış partileri ile ilgili başlıca sorun ve beklentileri arz açığı, standarda uyum, kalite ve ölçüm hataları konularına odaklanmaktadır. Müşteriler, satış partilerinin aynı kalite, çap ve boy sınıfından emval içermesini istemektedir. Ayrıca müşterilerin tutum ve beklentileri, işletmeler arasında ve benzer çalışmalarla bazı noktalarda örtüşürken, bazılarında ayrışmaktadır. Sonuç olarak, her bölge müdürlüğüne özel pazarlama programı hazırlanarak, kendi müşterilerini izlemeleri ve tatmin etmeleri önerilmektedir.
The effect of corporate governance on earnings management moderated by political connection
Authors: Auliana Rini Adriani , Subroto Bambang , Subekti Imam
Published: September 2023

Research aims: This research aims to prove the effect of independent commissioner performance and audit committee expertise on earnings management to avoid earnings decreases and political connections to strengthen independent commissioner performance and audit committee expertise to limit earnings management.Design/Methodology/Approach: The population was manufacturing firms listed on Indonesian Stock Exchange during 2017-2020. The sampling technique used purposive sampling with a sample of 102 firms for four years or 408 observations. Then, hypothesis testing employed multiple regression analysis and hierarchical regression analysis.Research findings: The results showcased that accrual earnings management and abnormal discretionary expenses were used by managers to avoid decreases in earnings. On the other hand, corporate governance, like audit committee expertise, could be used to limit earnings management. While the political connection could strengthen and weaken the effect of independent commissioner performances in limiting earning management, political connections could not strengthen audit committee expertise in limiting real and accrual earnings management.Theoretical contribution/Originality: This research contributes to the political connection and earning management literature and provides empirical evidence of agency theory, positive accounting theory, prospect theory, and resource dependence theory.Practitioner/Policy implication: This research contributes to investors in determining investment decisions.Research limitation/Implication: The limitation of this research is that independent variables only used two components of corporate governance, i.e., the independent commissioner performances and audit committee expertise, so the level of influence of the independent variables on the dependent was small.
Credulous on accountability at LaaRiba community: A tasawuf critical reflection
Authors: Tarmizi Muhammad Irfan , Birton Muhammad Nur Abdullah , Muttaqin Muhammad
Published: September 2023

Research aims: Accountability is a form and mechanism of responsibility that applies to all activities at the level of individuals, organizations and the social world. This study aims, first, to explore the meanings and values that underlie the collective awareness of members and administrators of the LaaRibaa Community in actualizing accountability in financial reporting; second, providing a critical reflection on the awareness and practices of accountability within the LaaRibaa community.Design/Methodology/Approach: This study applies Milles and Huberman's qualitative approach, modified with critical reflection through tasawuf concepts by Haji Abdul Malik Karim Amrullah (HAMKA). Data were collected through interviews with committees and members as well as observations on the documents. Data analysis includes the following steps: (1) data reduction, (2) data presentation, and (3) verification using the HAMKA’s tasawuf concept as an analytical tool.Research findings: The results show that the LaaRiba community's financial accountability model is influenced by many values. Al-Qur'an and hadith as fundamental values; trustworthiness and sincerity as substantial values; and please Allah (ﷻ) as the ultimate goal of managers and community members. However, this principle of trustworthiness and sincerity is practiced credulously, both from their position as public auditors and from the perspective of HAMKA's tasawuf concepts which are ihlas (sincerity) and amanah (trustworthy) (Islamic accountability).Theoretical contribution/Originity: This study found an inconsistency in the attitudes of community members or managers, on their daily occupation of being public auditors, they were very strict on the principles of accountability, but not accordingly when they act as community members or managers. This result strengthens previous findings which show a weak commitment to accountability in Islamic social institutions.Practitioner/Policy implication: To the managers of the LaaRiba community, there are three aspects that need to be fixed immediately. First, the legality of the community, so that there is legal certainty. Second, the position of the waqf contract needs to be reviewed so that it does not violate its purpose. Third, the accountability of financial reports needs to be improved in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in Islamic social institutions
Kaizen internal quality assurance adoption and quality performance improvement in Indonesian higher education institutions: The moderating role of IT development
Authors: Sofyani Hafiez
Published: September 2023

Research aims: In 2018, strengthening Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), governance began to be promoted again by the Indonesian government after its first initiation in 2003. In doing so, the Indonesian government has adopted a new internal quality assurance framework for HEIs, i.e., the Kaizen method, which emphasizes the quality improvement process. In addition, the government recommended the development of IT advancement to support management practices at the HEIs, including internal quality assurance. However, to this day, related research that examines the extent to which these policies contribute to HEI quality performance improvement still needs to be improved. To meet the gap, the current study examined the Kaizen internal quality assurance implementation role on HEI quality performance by testing the IT development as a moderator.Design/Methodology/Approach: Using data from 191 HEI samples obtained from 31 of 34 provinces in Indonesia, the relationship between variables was tested by employing the Partial Least Square (PLS) technique.Research findings: The results exhibited that the Kaizen internal quality assurance implementation was positively associated with HEI quality performance, where IT development strengthened the relationship (moderated). However, since the direct relationship between IT development and HEI quality performance was also significant, the moderating role of IT development was quasi in nature.Theoretical contribution/Originality: The results provide new insights regarding the contributions of internal quality assurance reform supported by IT development to the HEI quality performance. Specifically, the study affirms the role of IT as a moderator.
Evaluation of serum leptin levels in diabetic and hypertensive subjects resident in Port Harcourt
Authors: Waribo Helen A.
Published: September 2023

Background: Diabetes and hypertension which are metabolic conditions are becoming more common and prevalent  in the world. Prolonged rise of blood sugar levels, is a hallmark of diabetes, a metabolic condition caused by problems with insulin production, insulin resistance or both while hypertension is the persistent high blood pressure in the arteries. Leptin is a hormone that inhibits appetite, reduces fat storage in adipocytes and aids in the regulation of energy balance hence implicated in diabetes and insulin resistance. Thus, can metabolic state affects its level in the serum.
Methods: The study population is two hundred and forty (240) subjects that are residents of Port Harcourt aged between 30-70 years. Sixty subjects were used as the control, sixty subjects were diabetes, the other sixty subjects were hypertensive while the remaining sixty were subjects with both hypertension and diabetic mellitus. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method was used to quantitatively measure leptin levels in the serum sample, glycated haemoglobin were determined quantitatively using sandwich immunodetection and blood pressure was measured using mercury sphygmomanometer.
Results: The data generated were statistically analysed using Graph Pad Prism version 9.0.2. The results showed no significant difference in leptin levels in diabetics, hypertensive and subjects having both diabetes and hypertension when compared with the control subjects having none of these metabolic disorders (p =0.4166).
Conclusions: Our results shows that leptin levels in the population were relatively within the reference ranges both for males (0.5-12ng/ml) and females (0.5-15ng/ml). It clearly shows that metabolic conditions (diabetes or hypertension) does not affect leptin levels in serum.
A study of 100 cases of arrthymia in first 48 hours of acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Panchotiya Dushyant , Sadatiya Mayur
Published: September 2023

Background: Heart is the principle source of inspiration and focus among lovers and lyricists. Despite impressive strides in diagnosis and management, over last three decades’ acute myocardial infarction (AMI) continues to be a major public health problem in developing and developed countries. Cardiac arrhythmias directly and indirectly affect the morbidity and mortality of the patient with myocardial infarction and they are also related to in hospital and late mortality. Aims and objectives were to study the incidence of cardiac arrhythmias in AMI and the influence of various risk factors.
Methods: A cross sectional observational study was conducted among total 100 patients of acute myocardial infarction with arrhythmia within 48 hours of symptom onset, during May 2018 to October 2019.
Results: In our study, among 100 cases studied maximum incidence was in six decades of around 46%. Complications like left ventricular dysfunction and cardiogenic shock are more common with anterior wall infarction combined with inferior wall infarction. Most common risk factor observed was sedentary life style (72%), smoking (48%), IHD (38%), diabetes mellitus and obesity (34%). Mortality rate is 42.86% in complete heart block followed by 33.33 in second degree A-V block type 2.
Conclusions: Myocardial infarction with arrhythmia was most common in sixth decade (46%) and male to female ratio is 3.35:1. Chest pain (96%), dyspnoea (54%), perspiration (59%), nausea and vomiting (43%) and palpitations (16%) were also present which should be kept in mind. Most common arrhythmia observed was premature beats and VPC's were more common (37%).
An overview of laparoscopic versus open incisional hernia repair
Authors: Boopathy D. , Asokan P. K. , Yeshwanth T. R.
Published: September 2023

Background: An incisional hernia is perceived as a morbidity following an abdominal wall operation. Risk factors that increase the chances of developing these hernias are wound infection, male sex, obesity, abdominal distension, underlying disease process and occasionally poor surgical closure. The aim of this study was to compare laparoscopic vs open incisional hernia repair with regard to postoperative pain and nausea, operative time, postoperative complications and length of hospital stay.
Methods: We conducted retrospective review of consecutive patients with hernia in department of surgery, Sri Venkateshwaraa Medical College and Hospital, Redhills, Chennai, Tamil Nadu between September 2022 to February 2023 (6 months). We analyzed 140 patients that met the inclusion criteria and their clinical data. The patients were divided into two groups: open incision hernia repair (OI=70) group and laparoscopic hernia repair (LR=70) group.
Results: In our study, the mean operative time of 99.64±13.1 min for the laparoscopic repair group was longer than the mean operative time of 74.64±9.14 min for open repair (p =0.264). Hospital stay was not significantly in the laparoscopic group with a mean of 2.4±0.6 days compared with 2.8±1.4 of the open repair group (p=0.0515).
Conclusions: Smaller incisional hernias with a transverse diameter <10 cm can be repaired successfully by a laparoscopic approach if a suitably skilled surgeon is available, although an ugly scar may remain on the anterior abdominal wall. Major defects >10 cm was best repaired by an open operation.
Nutrient foramen of humerus
Authors: Chalkoo Sobia Ali , Lone Parvaiz Ahmad , Shahdad Shaheen , Bhat Ghulam Mohammad
Published: September 2023

Background: Humerus is a typical long bone of arm in human body extending from shoulders to elbow. Nutrient foramen is the small opening present in most of the bone of human body to transmit the nutrient artery which supplies nutrition to different parts of bone. The aim of the present study is to identify the number of nutrient foramen in dry humerus and to observe direction and allocation of the nutrient foramina.
Methods: The present study was carried out in 60 dry humeri (23 rights and 37 lefts) collected from Department of Anatomy, Government Medical College Srinagar. Bones were examined with respect to the number, direction and anatomical location of nutrient foramen.
Results: Out of 60 dry humeri, 36 (60%) had a single nutrient foramen, 14 (23.3%) had double, 7 (11.6%) had triple and 3 (5%) had no nutrient foramen. About 52% of the bones had nutrient foramen on the medial border, 40% on the Anteromedial surface, 3% on lateral border, 3% on posterior surface and 2% on the anterior border. Majority of the bones i.e., 81% have the nutrient foramen in the middle 1/3rd zone, 17% at the junction between middle 1/3rd zone and lower 1/3rd zone and 2% in the lower 1/3rd zone.
Conclusions: By knowing the number and location of the nutrient foramina in humerus it is useful in preventing intra-operative injury of nutrient artery during orthopedic, plastic and reconstructive surgery.
Management and outcome of pediatric inguinal hernias with emphasis on technique without opening the inguinal canal- a single center experience
Authors: Girdhar Rajesh , Singh Ikjot , Mallick Achinta Kumar
Published: September 2023

Background: Herniotomy for congenital inguinal hernia in children is a fairly common surgical procedure. Inguinal hernias in infants can be repaired by conventional surgery as well as laparoscopic approach. Open repair of inguinal hernias in children without opening the inguinal canal, thereby maintaining the normal anatomy was done at our centre. Objective was to evaluate the course and outcome of paediatric congenital inguinal hernia cases operated at our centre.
Methods: This study was conducted in a service hospital (Military Hospital Jammu), on 67 patients presenting with congenital inguinal hernia during October 2014 to June 2017.
Results: Sixty-two children were male and five were female. 18 were less than one year, 38 between two to five year and 11 more than five years. All the patients were evaluated preoperatively and taken up for surgery under general anesthesia (n=18) spinal block (n=36) and caudal anesthesia (n=13). Approximate length of skin incision was 1.5 to 2.0 cm. External inguinal ring was opened in 3 cases only. Approximate postoperative stay in hospital was 1-2 days. Nine patients had reactive hydrocele and one patient developed surgical site infection (SSI). On 12 months post-operative follow up, none of the patients had any further complications.
Conclusions: Inguinal hernias are common in children, with increased risk of incarceration if not repaired early. Open technique without altering the inguinal canal anatomy is also a suitable alternative to congenital inguinal hernia repair in children with favourable comparable outcome.
The effect of social skill training among schizophrenic patients on social skill development in selected psychiatric ward of different hospitals in Odisha
Authors: Moharana Sephali , Mohapatra Sushruta , Jena Piyadarshini
Published: September 2023

Background: Schizophrenia as a severe mental disorder characterized by profound deficits in thinking, perception, affect and social behaviour (World Health Organization [WHO], 2014). Schizophrenia is treatable. Treatment with medicines and psychosocial support is effective.
Methods: Quantitative approach with true experimental research design was adopted. Total 60 schizophrenic patients were selected for the study using purposive sampling technique. Subjects were randomly assigned into the experimental (n=30) and control group (n=30). Social skill training was given to experimental group. The training includes discussion, questioning, group activity, role play. The tools used to collect the data were as follows: (1) Demographic questionnaire (2) Standardized tool social adaptive functioning evaluation. Baseline assessment was done on the 1st day, then pre-test was done and the social skill training was implemented in experimental group on the same day. The training includes six sessions of discussion, questioning, group activity, role play etc. given for seven days followed by post-test was done in both the experimental as well as control group. The data analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics with SPSS 21 version.
Results: The mean post-test social skill score in experimental group (38.90±11.813) and in control group is (30.97±11.556) which shows the significant difference in social skill score between the groups (t=2.629, P= 0.005472*). There was a significant association found between the education (chi square= 15.890, P= 0.043), social skill training programme (chi square= 6.058, P= 0.048).
Conclusions: Thus, the training regarding social skill was effective in improving level of social skill among schizophrenic patient.
Effect of letrozole 2.5 mg or 5.0 mg for ovulation induction in intrauterine insemination in case of unexplained infertility: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Goel Neha , Verma Ashok , Bansal Shubham , Kumari Manjeet , Drishti  , Deeksha
Published: September 2023

Background: Aim was to compare effects of letrozole 2.5 mg or 5.0 mg for ovulation induction in patients with unexplained Infertility.
Methods: A randomized controlled trial. 60 patients attending infertility clinic were randomly allocated into two groups-Group A received letrozole 2.5 mg and Group B received letrozole 5 mg orally for 5 days from 3rd day of cycle. The patients also received inj FSH 75 IU i/m on day 7 and 9 of the cycle and underwent follicular study on day 11, 13, 15. When the dominant follicle size reached 18 mm ovulation triggered with Inj hCG 5000 IU IM and Intrauterine insemination was done 24-36 hours later. Pregnancy rates were calculated. Results were analysed by statistical software.
Results: Better ovulation rates were seen in patients receiving 5 mg letrozole. No difference in the pregnancy rates was found between the two groups. No multiple pregnancies and ovarian hyperstimulation seen.
Conclusions: It appears that 5 mg daily for 5 days is a preferable letrozole dose for superovulation.
Histopathological spectrum of salivary gland lesions in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Kasundra Khushbu N. , Patel Pulkit J.
Published: September 2023

Background: Salivary gland has a wide spectrum of neoplasms with diverse clinical and morphological features. These tumors are relatively rare. Histopathological examination plays an important role in diagnosis of these tumors. The aim of present study is to evaluate spectrum of salivary gland tumors and their frequency, age, gender and site wise distribution.
Methods: The present observational study included 53 cases of salivary gland lesions. Clinical details and histopathological findings were noted from records and obtained data were analyzed using proper statistical software.
Results: Out of 53 cases studied, 10 (19%) cases were non-neoplastic, 31 (58%) were benign and 12 (23%) cases were malignant. Benign salivary gland tumors were more common in 4th decade while malignant tumors were common in 5th-6th decade of life. Male to female ratio was 1.52:1. Most of the tumors were located in major salivary gland amongst which parotid gland is the most common one involved. Pleomorphic adenoma was the most common salivary gland tumor amongst all. Mucoepidermoid carcinoma was the most common malignant tumor.
Conclusions: Histopathological examination plays an important role in diagnosis and categorization of salivary gland tumors as these tumors are difficult to diagnose based only on morphology and clinical features.
Role of magnetic resonance spectroscopy and diffusion-weighted imaging in characterizing intra axial brain tumours
Authors: S. Soorya Prakash , Kattoju Sudhakar
Published: September 2023

Background: Magnetic Resonance imaging (MRI) is essential for assessing intracranial malignancies, but conventional MRI has limitations in tumour grading and infiltration information. Advanced Magnetic Resonance (MR) sequences, such as diffusion-weighted (DW) and Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy (MRS), can differentiate between low-grade and high-grade tumours, aiding treatment decisions. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of diffusion-weighted imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopy in grading intra-axial brain tumours and correlating the results with histopathology.
Methods: This retrospective study involved 45 patients over one year at Apollo Hospital. MR imaging included conventional sequences, DW, and MRS with localizers in all three planes. DWI and ADC maps were obtained using specific b-values. Standard mean Apparent Diffusion Coefficient (ADC) values were automatically calculated for intra-lesional and peri-lesional regions.
Results: Intralesional ADC values did not significantly differ between high-grade primary tumours (0.4-1 x 10-3 mm2/s, mean 0.7) and metastases (0.4-0.8 x 10-3 mm2/s, mean 0.7). However, peri-lesional ADC values were lower in primary tumours (0.3-1.3 x 10-3 mm2/s, mean 0.8), indicating peri-lesional infiltration, while higher in metastases (1.2-1.6 x 10-3 mm2/s, mean 1.4) due to the absence of peri-lesional infiltration. Additionally, intralesional ADC values showed a significant difference between low-grade tumours (1-2 x 10-3 mm2/s) and high-grade tumours (0.4-1 x 10-3 mm2/s), allowing for their distinction. There were significantly increased Cho/NAA and Cho/Cr ratios in high-grade tumours compared to low-grade tumours.
Conclusions: MR spectroscopy and DWI with computation of ADC values can enhance the diagnostic effectiveness of MR imaging in detecting and grading malignant brain tumours.
Clinical and biochemical profile of hyponatremia and the role of vaptans in comparison to other standard modalities of therapy
Authors: Ahmed Jalal , Khan Mohammed Fahad , Umakanth Shashikiran , Shetty Seema
Published: September 2023

Background: This study, conducted from August 2014 to August 2015, investigated hyponatremia in 228 in-hospital patients, aiming to discern its clinical and biochemical features and compare the efficacy of vaptans against standard treatments. The null hypothesis assumed no significant disparity in outcomes, while the alternate hypothesis posited otherwise.
Methods: Using an open-label, non-blinded, observational, prospective comparative design, we assessed 228 hyponatremia patients. We scrutinized their clinical and biochemical profiles and made comparisons between moderate and profound hyponatremia cases, along with different treatment approaches.
Results: Our findings revealed that patients aged 61-80, primarily females, dominated the cohort. Moderate hyponatremia occurred in 56.6% of cases, with severe hyponatremia in 43.4%. Common symptoms included drowsiness, nausea, and vomiting. Euvolemic hyponatremia was predominantly due to SIADH, while heart failure led to most hypervolemic cases. Various treatments were employed, with fluid restriction and normal saline being common. Tolvaptan and 1.6% hypertonic saline significantly increased serum sodium levels at 24 and 48 hours. Hospital stay duration didn’t significantly differ, and no osmotic demyelination cases emerged. Mortality stood at 10.5%, notably higher in profound hyponatremia cases.
Conclusions: This study provides insights into hyponatremia’s clinical and biochemical aspects and compares vaptans to standard treatments. Tolvaptan and hypertonic saline displayed promise in raising serum sodium levels. Nevertheless, further research is warranted to validate these findings and explore additional factors impacting hyponatremia treatment outcomes.