bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidence of infertility in females and Evaluation of its Causes Using Ultrasonography
Authors: Shahzad Hamna , John Akash , Ali Abid , Ashraf Attia , Ahmad Naeem Muhammad
Published: April 2022

Infertility is a condition in which a woman is not able to conceive following 12 months of regular and unprotected intercourse. It is a major health issue that affects 186 million people worldwide. Objective: To determine the incidence and causes of infertility in females using ultrasound. Methods:  It is a cross-sectional study conducted in a private diagnostic Centre in Gujrat, Pakistan, over a period of 4 months. A sample size of 75 was calculated using a convenient approach after informed consent. Patients subjected to ultrasonography were married, diagnosed infertile women between 20–45 years. Patients with hysterectomy or congenital ovarian abnormalities were excluded. Collected data was analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results: The study showed that the incidence of infertility is higher in 20-25 age group and least in 41-45 age group. The majority of females 51(68%) had primary infertility while 24(32%) had secondary infertility. The majority of infertile women were from a moderate socioeconomic background. The common cause of infertility was due to submucosal fibroid 25(33.3%), hormonal imbalance in 16(21.3%) and PCOS in 14(18.17%). Conclusions: The study concluded that the incidence of infertility is highest in 20-25 age groups. Submucosal fibroid, hormonal imbalance, and PCOS are the most common causes of infertility in females.
Characterization of solid liver masses on ultrasound in adults
Authors: Ahmad Naweera , John Akash , Ali Abid , Nawaz Neha , Ahmad Muhammad
Published: April 2022

Liver carcinoma is the fifth leading cancer globally and the third top cause of mortality in 2012, there were 14 million new cases and 8.2 million fatalities. Objective: To accurately define solid liver masses in adults based on clinical presentation and ultrasound findings in order to obtain a definitive diagnosis in adults. Methods: It was a retrospective study consisting of total 128 individuals with untreated liver lesions examined on ultrasound (Toshiba Xario 100) at a private tertiary care hospital in Gujrat. From January 2021 to January 2022, 65 males and 63 females, ages ranging from 30 to 70 years. A convenient sampling technique was used to collect data by fully informed consent from patients to access. Data was entered and analyzed on SPSS version 22. Results: The current study included 128 patients aged ranging from 30–70 years, being examined using ultrasound for solid liver masses. The gender frequency was 65(50.8%) males and 63(49.2%) females. Ultrasound diagnosis interprets as 62(48.4%) Hepatocellular-carcinoma, 38(29.7%) hemangioma, 11(8.6%) FNH, 3(2.3%) metastasis, and 13(10.2%) cholangiocarcinoma. Moreover, ultrasound findings regarding liver masses diagnosed includes 99(38.7%) single masses, 29(11.3%) multiple masses, 47(18.4%) normal liver parenchyma and 81(31.6%) coarse liver. The common clinical complaints associated with solid hepatic lesions were right upper quadrant pain 80(35.4%), splenomegaly 69(30.5%) and 77(34.1%) hepatomegaly. Conclusions: It is concluded that the right upper quadrant pain, hepatomegaly has a correlation to solid liver masses and a weak relation to splenomegaly irrespective to age and gender. The most common solid liver mass was Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Ultrasound is a noteworthy imaging modality to diagnose solid hepatic masses.
Evaluation of Renal Cyst on Ultrasound in Adults
Authors: Ashraf Attia , John Akash , Shahzad Hamna , Ahmad Naeem Muhammad
Published: April 2022

Renal cysts are fluid-filled pockets that develop on or inside of the kidneys. Cysts were usual and incidental findings in routine sonographic examinations of kidneys. Objective: To evaluate the location and types of renal cyst using ultrasound. Material and Method: It is a cross-sectional study conducted in 5 months from November 2021 to March 2022. A sample size of 100 was calculated using previous published related study. All adults above 20 years were included and referred to an ultrasound scan of a kidney. After informed consent data was collected and analysed on SPSS version 20. Results: According to the current study renal cysts are most prevalent at the age group of 60 to 80 years having 35(35%) followed by 40 to 60 years 33(33%). The males were more prone to develop renal cysts 55(55%) as compared to females 45(45%). Unilateral cysts were more common 60(30%) as compared to bilateral cysts 40(20%). The occurrence of renal cyst was common in right kidney 65(32.5%) as compared to left kidney 35(17.5%). The renal cysts were commonly present at Cortex 70(70%) and the most common type was simple polycystic kidneys 60(60%). Conclusion: In conclusion, the prevalence of renal cyst is higher in old males specifically in the cortical region. Unilateral polycystic kidneys are most common.
Resveratrol: A Phenolic Prodigy
Authors: Jawad Mahin , Jawad Maham , Nazia Hafiza , Khalid Khan Filza , Ishaq Arifa , Khan Kinza
Published: April 2022

Resveratrol, a naturally occurring polyphenolic compound that performs as a phytoalexin, was isolated for the first time ever in 1940 and has gained attention of the scientific world ever since. Its miraculous properties have made it a phenolic prodigy, and the absence of any negative clinical experimentation or research just goes to prove its never-ending benefits. The conduction of more than 130 clinical trials with the administration of varying doses of resveratrol has showed different results in different settings. The failure to procure established and lasting results has led to a deferral in its use as dietary supplements which could be the reason of its unpopularity. The ultimate fate of resveratrol remains an open-ended question but there is no doubt that this compound certainly has inspired many scientific innovations and advances
Effectiveness of Balance Training and Postural Stability in Post Stroke Patients; Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Khalid Hayatullah , Latif Salman , Majeed Rabia , Latif Danish , Bugti Mahnoor , Jabbar Rameela , Hayat Shoukat , Farooque Muhammad Anees
Published: April 2022

When balance impairment and functional disorientation emerge after a stroke, balance incoordination is one of the most common complications. The basic goal of stroke rehabilitation is to improve postural stability. Balance training combined with sensory integration appears to be beneficial. The goal of this study was to assess the effects of task-oriented balance training with and without sensory input on postural stability and balance coordination in stroke patients. A total of 60 stroke patients participated in this randomised control experiment. Both genders with a stroke age of over 40 years, able to stand for at least 5 minutes without assistance, and patients with functional mobility grades of 2, 3, and 4 were included in the study. The Berg Balance Scale was utilised to assess each group, which had 40-minute training sessions three times a week for six weeks. The baseline 3rd week and the last 6th week were used to evaluate the participants. Both groups showed considerable improvement in the Berg Balance Scale after 6 weeks of treatment. The (p=0.004) in the control group, but (p=0.001) in the experimental group. BESS also demonstrated significant development in both the experimental and control groups, with p values (p0.001) for each group. In this study, task-oriented balance training with sensory input showed greater improvement in balance coordination and postural stability in stroke patients than task-oriented balance exercises without sensory integration.
Genotypes Variation and Molecular Epidemiology Of The Hbv Chronic Liver Infection In The Local Population Of Pakistan: An Overview Of The Recent Literature
Authors: Tahreem Bushra , Ali Ghadir , Ahmad Haroon , Shahzad Asim , Khurram Muhammad , Naeem Nabiha , Nazar Aquib , Haris Muhammad , . Hassan , . Shahrukh
Published: April 2022

Hepatitis is defined as an enlargement of the liver. Viral hepatitis is the word used for the group of liver ailments generated by viral infections. There are approximately 350 million people worldwide who have chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. HBV is estimated to kill 563,000 people each year and cause a high rate of infection. The Hepatitis B DNA virus comprises of a 3.2 kb relaxed-spherical DNA molecule. Of the total eight genotypes of HBV, genotype D is the most common, with an actual incidence rate of 63.71%, followed by genotype A at 10%, according to ten distinct studies conducted in diverse parts of Pakistan. Symptoms may take up to six months to emerge after exposure. Early signs and symptoms of HBV infection are lethargy, nausea, poor appetite, vomiting, pyrexia, headache, muscle pain, joint pain, gastrointestinal disturbances, dark urine, and jaundice. Pakistan is one of the worst affected countries, with over 40 million Pakistanis infected with HBV. This article provides an overview of the epidemiology and natural history of HBV infection and its diagnosis and treatment.
Measurement of Amniotic Fluid Volume in 2nd and 3rd Trimesters of Normal Pregnancies
Authors: Shaheen Muqadas , John Akash , Ali Abid , . Esha
Published: April 2022

The important implication of obstetric care is the assessment of amniotic fluid volume. This assessment can prevent anomalies that are associated with oligohydramnios and polyhydramnios. Objective: To evaluate normal amniotic fluid volume in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters with the correlation of gestational age. Methods: It was a cross-sectional study and data were collected from a private health care setup in Gujrat, Pakistan.  After informed consent data were collected in four months. A sample size of 75 patients was calculated conveniently using a mean from previous related studies. The women with singleton gestation from 20 to 40 years of age group were included in this research. The data were entered and analyzed on SPSS version 20. Results: This study showed that 47(62.7%) of women were multigravida and 28(37.3%) were primigravida. The most frequent maternal age group was 26-30(38.7%) years and the gestational age group was 31 to 35(42.7%) weeks. At the gestational age of 21-25 weeks, the mean of AFI was 14.38 and the mean of SDP was 5.69, while at the age of 26-30 weeks the estimated mean of AFI was 12.12 and the mean of SDP was 5.11. The mean of AFI and SDP at the age of 31-35 weeks were calculated at 11.48 and 4.26 respectively. At the age of 36-40 weeks, the estimated mean of AFI and SDP were calculated 10.22 and 3.73 correspondingly. Conclusions: This study concluded that amniotic fluid volume measured by amniotic fluid index and the single deep pool was increased in the 2nd trimester from 21-25 weeks of gestation and then progressively reduced in the third trimester as the pregnancy advances.
Thyroid Volume Measurements in Normal Adult Females of Gujrat, Pakistan
Authors: Eshal Miss , John Akash , Ali Abid , Shaheen Muqadas , Akram Mahnoor
Published: April 2022

Thyroid gland volume assessment is considered crucial in a variety of pathological circumstances including thyroiditis, iodine deficiency, and goiter, and may vary with age and weight. Objective: To evaluate the normal adult female’s thyroid volume using ultrasonography. Methods: It is a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted at the private healthcare setup of Gujrat Pakistan. After informed consent data was collected over four months. A sample size of 42 patients was calculated via a convenient sampling approach by taking the mean from previous related studies. The data was entered and analyzed by using SPSS version 20. The study included normal adult females and excluded thyroid diseases, neck swelling, and atypical thyroid volumes. Results: This study included 42 females who had a standard thyroid gland. Findings of thyroid volume showed a positive strong correlation between thyroid volume, age, and weight. The mean weight of patients was 67.66±10.3 Kg and the mean age of patients was 42.07±14.5 years. The mean volume of the right lobe of the thyroid was 3.70±0.96ml, mean volume of left lobe of thyroid was 3.51±0.94 ml and mean volume of total thyroid was 7.22±1.90 ml. Paired Sample t-test of right and left thyroid lobes volume was calculated having with the significance of (.000). Conclusions: It is concluded that ultrasound is the preferred approach for the evaluation of thyroid volume. The thyroid volume had a positive strong correlation with weight and age.
Assessment of Knowledge Regarding Hepatitis C Transmission, Treatment, and Vaccination among Health Care Providers
Authors: Nasir Urwa , John Akash , Ameen Nasir , Sehrish Miss , Bhatti Amina Sharif
Published: April 2022

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a disease transmitted through contaminated blood and can also be transferred from mother to child during delivery. This inflammatory disease causes everlasting damage to the liver leading to death. Objective: To assess the knowledge regarding Hepatitis C transmission, treatment, and vaccination among health care providers. Methods: It is a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted in tehsil Wazirabad, district Gujranwala. The study included medical and paramedical staff of 2 health care setups: Iqra Medical Complex and Butt Eye Hospital. The 260 participants were included as per convenience after informed consent. Data were collected from January 2021 to August 2021 using a validated self-administered questionnaire. Data was entered and analyzed on SPSS version 21. The responses of the participants were recorded on 5 points Likert scale and frequencies and percentages were mentioned as a response. Results: The mean age of respondents was 28.3 ± 5.6 years with minimum and maximum ages as 20 and 45years.  The participants included males 176 (67.7%) and females 84 (32.3%). The participants had sufficient knowledge about Hepatitis C transmission, symptoms, and effects on the liver. But respondents 30 (11.5%) strongly disagreed and 60 (23%) disagreed that Hepatitis C can be transferred from mother to child. The majority of the respondents 138 (53.1%) strongly disagreed with 50 (19.2%) that hepatitis can survive at room temperature. Moreover, the maximum number of respondents such as 160 (61.5%) strongly disagreed about proper updated knowledge of the treatment. Conclusions: In conclusion, the respondents have sufficient knowledge about Hepatitis C symptoms, transmission, and its long-term effects on the liver. They were unaware of HCV survival at room temperature and its transmission from mother to child at the time of birth. Moreover, the staff members also lack the knowledge of updated treatment plans.
Efficacy of therapeutic ultrasound in De-Quervain' s Tenosynovitis
Authors: Mustafa Maria , Khan Mehwish , Hanif Muhammad , Khan Rehan Ramzan , Rehman Muhammad , Ambreen Humera , Mustafa Muhammad , Arshad Naveed
Published: April 2022

Overuse or repetitive motion can develop De-syndrome, Quervain's which produces pain along the thumb side of the wrist. The thumb tendons get irritated or inflamed as a result of these motions. Activities that involve regular side-to-side extension of the thumb or wrist might trigger De Quervain's tenosynovitis. Objective: To assess the efficacy of therapeutic ultrasound in De-Quervain's Tenosynovitis. Methods: In this study, forty people were separated into two groups: interventional and control groups, each with 20 people. Results: The interventional group's mean age was 37.70 with a standard deviation of 7.921, while the control group's mean age was 36.60 with a standard deviation of 7.816. Out of 20 individuals in the intervention group, 10 were male and 10 were female, whereas in the control group, 11 were male and 9 were female. The interventional group's mean height and weight were 1.642m0.1740 and 75.9515.830, respectively, while the control group's mean height and weight were 1.675m01517 and 75.5013.296. Out of the 20 patients in the interventional group, one was underweight, seven were normal weight, four were overweight, and eight were obese. Eight patients in the control group were of normal weight, seven were overweight, and five were obese. Conclusions: It was determined that ultrasonic therapy is useful in treating De-tenosynovitis quervain's when the tendon is inflamed
Knowledge And Practices of Oral Hygiene Among Pregnant Women in A Tertiary Care Hospital of Pakistan
Authors: Khan Farzeen , Sabiha Zia Ul Ain , Haider Beenish , Roghani Khumara , Ahmed Junaid , Ajmal Amina , Farid Anila , Ateeq Muhammad , Bangash Sudhair Abbas
Published: April 2022

During pregnancy, women are more susceptible to certain oral disorders, which may have a negative impact on either mother or child health. Oral hygiene and related negative prenatal outcomes are often neglected issues, particularly in underdeveloped countries such as Pakistan. Objective: To assess the knowledge and practices of oral hygiene among pregnant women at tertiary care hospital. Methods: This cross-sectional study based on questionnaire was carried out at the Dental unit of Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar for a period of one year from July, 2020 to December, 2021. A total of 400 pregnant women were included in this study. Their knowledge level and practices about oral health were determined by using proper designed questionnaire. All the data analysis was performed by using SPSS version 22. Results: In our study, 308 (77%) subjects consider sugar as the cause of dental carries while 92 (23%) subjects does not consider sugar as the cause of dental carries. Among 400 subjects, 140 (35%) subjects consider sugar as the cause of gum disease. Concerning oral hygiene practices, 360 (90%) subjects use tooth brush. The number of subjects using tooth brush daily, twice or more than twice were 280 (70%), 112 (28%) and 8 (2%) subjects respectively. Conclusion: Our study concludes that most of the pregnant women in our study were knowledgeable and have good practices but there is still a gap in their level of knowledge and practices. It is essential to provide oral health education for management of good oral health during pregnancy.
Sonographic Correlation of Caudate Lobe and Liver Size Among Hepatitis C Virus Patients
Authors: Talat Hafsa , Murrium Syeda Khadija-Tul-Sughra , Gilani Syed Amir , Ali Sabar , Fatima Mehreen , Suleman Taiba , Asif Mishal , Hina Gull E
Published: April 2022

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a leading cause of liver disease in the world. Ultrasound is considered to be the first choice to diagnose hepatomegaly and caudate lobe enlargement in HCV patients by measuring the liver and Caudate lobe size Objective: To assess the sonographic correlation of caudate lobe size with liver size among hepatitis C virus patients Methods: The cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in the Department of Radiology at Sabiry Surgical Hospital, Faisalabad, Pakistan. A total of 68 patients (33 males and 35 females) with the HCV from March 2021 to November 2021 were included in this study. The craniocaudal length of the liver and vertical diameter of the caudate lobe was measured and compared in a ratio by using ultrasonography. Results: In total patients, the minimum age was 22 years and the maximum age was 70 years with an average age of 41.76 (SD=12.46) years. The mean liver size was 171.34 (SD=12.96) mm and the mean caudate lobe size was 61.06 mm (SD=12.96). The percentage between the normal and enlarged caudate lobe was 10.3% and 89.7% respectively. In total there were 60 patients with the present while 8 with absent hepatomegaly and 7 with normal and 61 with enlarged caudate lobe size the p-value is 0.021 which was significant because it was <0.05 Conclusions: The caudate lobe size measurement by ultrasonography is a strong reliable parameter for early assessment and early possible treatment of the HCV in patients.
Frequency of Coronary Artery Disease Pathologies Detected on Computed Tomography Angiography in Patients with Acute Chest Pain
Authors: Ahmed Lyba , Qasim Javeria , Naveed Moeeza , Latif Aruj , Rashid Sabrina , Zulfiqar Aqsa , Qayyum Saad
Published: April 2022

Coronary artery disease is the buildup of plaque in the arteries that supply oxygen-rich blood to your heart. Plaque causes a narrowing or blockage that could result in a heart attack. Objective: To detect frequency of pathologies (coronary artery disease) on CTA in patients with chest pain. Methods: It was a descriptive study and 258 patients with symptom of chest pain were selected from department of radiology, this study conducts from 16 March, 2021 to January 25, 2022, at Punjab institute of cardiology Lahore and Al-Razi Hospital Lahore. The data was analyzed using SPSS V-21. Results: This thorough study depicts a large number of patients belonging from middle age group ranging from 43-62 years old have the highest frequency of involvement of triple vessel disease. LV dysfunction was found out be present in severe in these middle-aged patients. Our study also helped ruling out that male gender had a higher frequency in prevalence of coronary heart disease and involvement of the triple vessel disease with severe lv dysfunction and that of female patients was far less in numbers and severity respectively.  Conclusion: Triple vessel disease is more common in males than females and especially belonging to middle aged group and simultaneously more affected left ventricular function.
Prevalence of Piriformis Tightness in Sciatic Patients
Authors: Gulzar Khushboo , Islam Farooq , Raza Thakur Asim , Shaheen Maha , Shaharyar Ashar Muhammad , Shahzab Sheikh
Published: April 2022

Piriformis muscle is supplied by sciatic nerve and its origin is from sacrum through first to fourth sacral foramina, from the edge of greater sciatic foramen and from pelvic surface of the sacrotuberous ligament. Objective: To calculate the prevalence of piriformis muscle tightness in sciatic patients. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Gujranwala and physical examination of piriformis tightness in sciatic patients involved piriformis stretch test. Demographic data, Semi-structured questionnaire, and consent form were used to collect data. All data was analyzed by Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0. Sample size for this study was 251. T-test was used for quantitative data and Chi square for qualitative data. P ≤ 0.05 was considered as significant value. All the results were calculated at 95% confidence level. Results: Prevalence of piriformis muscle tightness in sciatic patients is high. Results shows that total 251 sample size, 181(72.1%) patients tested positive for Piriformis stretch test while 70(27.9%) tested negative for piriformis stretch test. Conclusion: Piriformis stretch test was statistically significant and resulted positive in most of the cases
Histology of Placenta in Normotensive and Hypertensive Cases in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: A Comparative Study
Authors: Sarfaraz Khan Zahid , Khan Farooq , Amir Asma , Daud Fatima , Ataullah Muhammad , Ateeq Muhammad , Ullah Irfan
Published: April 2022

One of the most common pregnancy complications is Hypertension. It has a major effect on maternal and neonatal morbidities and fatalities. The placenta is an important organ for the maintenance of pregnancy and the nourishment of the fetus.  Objective: To compare the morbid variations in the placenta of hypertensive and normotensive mothers. Methods: From the obstetrics and gynecology department, a hundred placentae of hypertension and normotensive females were collected. The placentae were preserved in formalin and sectioned. Blocks prepared were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Results: The placentae from 50 normotensive mothers with 26±3.1 years (mean age) and 50 hypertensive mothers with 26± 2 years (mean age). In normotensive patients 12% Infarction was seen and 70% of severe hypertensive patients while syncytial knots were found in 70% of cases of severe hypertension, while calcification was observed in 90%. In severe hypertension, stroma fibrosis and hypervascularity increase in proportion to the degree of hypertension, with 50% and 30% cases seen in severe hypertension, respectively. Conclusions: In pregnancy hypertension causes, Stromal fibrosis syncytial knots, calcified, hypervascularity, all of which impair the uteroplacental flow of blood and lower newborn weight.
Evaluating COVID-19 Epidemiology, Clinical Outcomes and Neutrophil-To-Lymphocyte Ratio as a Prognosticator of Severity of the Disease
Authors: Arif Mizna , Farhad Sadia , Hussain Waqas , Mustafa Ghulam , Panjwani Rakesh , Arif Sarah , Bangash Sudhair Abbas , Ateeq Muhammad
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to find out the public health perspective of COVID-19 and its associated clinical outcomes. Furthermore, we aimed to identify the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), a prognostic biomarker for the COVID-19 severity. Method: This research was conducted in Hematology section, Pathology Department of Lahore General Hospital/ Ameerudin Medical College Lahore. A total of 1000 patients were enrolled in the study for nine months. A RT-PCR test of a nasopharyngeal swab from COVID-19 patients was comprised in this research with their informed consent. An EDTA vial containing peripheral blood was taken and sent directly to the hospital lab. For every patient; a detailed history and clinical examination were performed. Results: In this study, the average age of participants were 40 years; 61.30 percent (n=613) were between the ages of 20 and 45, and 38.70 percent (n=387) were between 45 and 88 yrs. The majority of participants (88%, n=880) were males .In total, 68% (n=680) of the patients did not have any pre-morbid conditions, while 32% (n=320) did. Diabetes mellitus was a premorbid condition for 13.7% of patients (n=137), hypertension for 5% (n=50), ischemic heart disease for 5.7% (n=57), chronic respiratory infection for 2.3% (n= 23), chronic renal disease for 4.3% (n=43), chronic hepatic for 1.2% (n=12). Eight hundred and forty patients (84%, n=840) presented with NLR <3.13 and one hundred and sixty patients (16%, n=160) presented with NLR >3.13 along with lymphopenia. More than half of patients with NLR > 3.13 were anticipated to progress serious illness. We prioritized patients based on stratification of NLR according to their ages and guided their treatment decisions. Conclusion: In conclusion, NLR can be exploited as a predictor for ventilatory support andprotection. Patients with an NLR > 3.13 are at higher risk of mortality as well as requiring intensive care soon after receiving it.
Non-Communicable Diseases
Authors: Alwazzan Ahmad
Published: April 2022

NCDs such as Diabetes mellites, cardiac disorders, cardiac failure, obesity, renal diseases, lung disease, dyslipidemia and stroke are among the few. NSDs have become a primary health concern and a major cause of mortality and morbidity around the globe. These diseases are progressive, asymptomatic and chronic and patient do not realize until the complications arise and symptoms appear. World Health Organization (WHO) reported in 2016 that 86% death from NCDs and 16% of premature deaths were in the age range of 30-70 years worldwide. Among these NSDs, 49% contribution was from cardiovascular diseases alone, 12% from caner, 5% from respiratory diseases and 5% from diabetes [1].

Disease burden of NCDs can be assessed by several indicators e.g. the disability adjusted life years (DALYs) which is the equivalent of losing one year in good and healthy life due to early death or any illness including disability [2]. NCDs were recognized as public health concern by United Nations and hence, policies were devised, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for the prevention and management of NCDs by 2030 were also planned [3]. The global NCDs action plan by WHO was initiated and implemented from 2013-2020 aiming to attain the set goals and priorities by 2025. The main goal which comprises of 25%, is to reduce the premature deaths from NCDs by 2025 [4].

Currently, the world is going through COVID-19 pandemic which has changed the whole world in terms of health, economics, psyphy and behaviours adversely. Although COVID-19 is a communicable disease but it has been observed that the patients who already have been contracted with NCDs such as heart, renal or lung disease are at much higher risk for COVID-19 infection as compared to others. Therefore, it is suggested that every one should get proper health screening at regular intervals even if you are healthy. Annual visit for checkups and screening should be conducted after the age of 40 years and after every 6 months is appreciated if you are above 50 years of age. A better governance and implementation of the Global strategy by WHO and United Nations is an urgent need of the recent times.
COVID-19 and Cardiac Complications
Authors: Ahmed Naseer
Published: April 2022

Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) is a communicable disease  and novel viral infection. It  became a pandemic in March 2020 and engulfed the whole world. The patients who have already cardiac issues have increased susceptibility for COVID-19. They are at higher risk for COVID-19 infection. The entry route for coronavirus inside cells is through its binding to Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors, present and expressed in cardiac and respiratory cells in lungs. ACE2 have a vital role in the neurohumoral homeostasis of  cardiac conduction system in pathological and physiological conditions. This binding of receptor and virus initiates several signaling pathways that leads to severe myocardial and lung inflammation [1,2].

There are many direct and indirect cardiac complications due to COVID-19 infection. Cytokine storm is initiated once infected with SARS-CoV-2 and it these inflammatory mediators may induce vascular inflammation, myocarditis, arrythmias, thromboembolism and metabolic syndrome [3]. COVID-19 infection affects the respiratory, cardiovascular as well as systemic system by causing inflammation [4]. Cardiovascular complication of COVID-19 arise by direct injury of myocadiac cells, vascular inflammation, disturbed ratio of myocardial supply, thromboembolism, side effects of various therapies for COVID-19 and deranged biochemical profile including electrolytes [5].

Medicines under study for COVID-19 may also have cardiovascular side effects of arrhythmia. Some of these drugs may prolong the QT and leads to tachycardia and sometimes sudden cardiac death. Cardiac biomarkers resulting from myocardial injury are raised in COVID-19 infection. These biomarkers include interleukins, C-reactive protein, troponins, ferritin, myoglobin, natriuretic peptides [6]. There are different patterns and symptoms of cardiovascular system involvement in COVID-19. Primary cardiovascular diseases include arrhythmias, myocarditis, coronary syndrome while secondary cardiovascular diseases include cardiac injury, organ failure and sepsis [6]. Hence, it is very important to understand the cardiovascular involvement in COVID-19 infection and the underlying mechanisms
Percepción sobre la seguridad ciudadana y la calidad de los servicios de la Policía Nacional del Perú en las ciudades de Cusco y Juliaca
Authors: Fuentes Vilca Juan Félix
Published: April 2022

El presente artículo, tiene como objetivo explicar si la percepción de seguridad ciudadana guarda relación con la calidad de los servicios que brinda la Policía Nacional del Perú en las ciudades del Cusco y Juliaca. Es una investigación de tipo descriptiva-correlacional, con diseño no experimental y transversal. Se empleó la técnica de encuesta y como instrumento el cuestionario. El grado de confianza y credibilidad que inspira la actuación de la Policía Nacional del Perú en cuanto a servicio de seguridad ciudadana en el Cusco son favorables, toda vez que la intervención de los principales problemas están siendo controlados con acciones preventivas y disuasivas. Sin embargo, esta problemática particular en Juliaca no es de prioridad. En Cusco la buena atención y el trato debido del efectivo policial dejan una impresión agradable entre los turistas y ciudadanos. En cambio, en Juliaca la Policía no presta la debida importancia a las formas con relación a la atención al público. La percepción sobre la seguridad ciudadana en Cusco son altas, toda vez que los servicios de la Policía Nacional del Perú satisfacen cabalmente los requerimientos de la ciudadanía, por tanto sus expectativas han sido satisfechas. Por el contrario, en Juliaca son precarias.
Development of Data Driven Decision Making Scale: A Validity and Reliability Study
Authors: YILMAZ Ercan , JAFAROVA Gulnar
Published: April 2022

In this study, it was aimed at developing a valid and reliable evaluation tool with the purpose of evaluating the Data Driven Decision Making Skills of teachers who work in primary school, middle-school and high-school levels. 534 teachers were included in the study (256 for EFA and 278 for CFA) (63 % female and 37 % male). For the scale development process, 730 teachers constituted the whole study group. In order to determine the structural validity of the scale, exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were used. As a result of the exploratory factor analysis, it was determined that the scale consisted of 10 items and 2 sub-dimensions. In the light of the literature, these dimensions were titled “Data literacy” and “Decision making”. The 2 sub-dimensional structure of the scale was subjected to the confirmatory factor analysis and as a result of the CFA, 1 item was excluded from the scale. The 2 sub-dimensional model created as a result of the EFA of DDDMS was tested with CFA and the adaptive values are at an acceptable level. In addition, the t values related to the high and low group difference of the scale showed that DDDMS is able to assess the structure in a distinctive manner. In order to determine the reliability of the scale, the Cronbach alpha internal consistency coefficients were calculated. When the reliability analyses results were viewed in the light of Data Driven Decision Making Scale’s factors, 0,782 value was obtained for the “Data Literacy” sub-dimension and 0,672 value was obtained for the “Decision Making” sub-dimension. The inner consistency coefficient of DDDMS is 0,790. As a result of the findings, it was determined that Data Driven Decision Making Scale is a valid and reliable assessment tool to evaluate the DDDM skills of teachers.
İHRACAT KREDİ SİGORTALARININ BİBLİYOMETRİK ANALİZİ: WEB OF SCIENCE VERİ TABANINDA BİR İNCELEME
Authors: GÜRBÜZER Gökçe Bahar , SÖNMEZ Said Sami
Published: April 2022

Ülkelerin ekonomik büyüme ve gelişmesinin sağlanmasında en önemli faktörlerden birisi olan ihracatta da hayatın her alanında olduğu gibi pek çok risk faktörü bulunmaktadır. Özellikle ihracat işlemi gerçekleştiren şirketler açısından bu risklerin neden olabileceği zararların önlenmesi veya minimize edilmesi oldukça önemlidir. Bilindiği üzere sigorta, risklerin gerçekleşmesi sonucu doğabilecek zararları önleyen finansal bir araçtır. Bu açıdan bakıldığında ihracatçı işletmeler için sigorta finansal sürdürülebilirlik açısından hayati önem taşımaktadır. Bu çalışmada ihracatta karşılaşılan risklerden bahsedilerek, ihracatta bir risk önleme aracı olarak kullanılan ihracat kredi sigortaları açıklanmıştır. Ayrıca ticari hayatta öneminin fark edilmesiyle kullanımı giderek yaygınlaşan bu sigorta türünün akademik literatürdeki çalışmalara olan yansıması incelenecektir. Bu çalışmanın amacı ihracat kredi sigortaları konusundaki çalışmaların akademik açıdan nasıl şekillendiğini, geliştiğini ve özellikle sosyal bilimler alanında nasıl bir yer kapladığını analiz etmektir. Bu doğrultuda konu ile ilgili olarak Web of Science veri tabanında endekslenmiş çalışmalardan elde edilen verilerin Vosviewer yazılım programı aracılığıyla analizi yapılmıştır.
Tax Compliance in the Era of Cryptocurrencies and CBDCs: The End of the Right to Privacy or No Reason for Concern?
Authors: Gadžo Stjepan , Jozipovic Šime , Perkušić Marko
Published: May 2022

The new European regulatory framework for crypto-assets contains strict reporting requirements for EU-based crypto service providers, which will give tax authorities and law enforcement agencies better insights into a significant segment of the cryptoasset space. The article first outlines how this will inevitably lead to the creation of a parallel crypto-asset market focused on offline wallets and peer-to-peer services outside the supervision of EU and national tax authorities. The article then highlights the important role that the so-called Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) will play in this environment. The differences between CBDCs and crypto-assets are examined from a tax assessment perspective in order to show that true anonymity is considerably less of an issue with (price stable) CBDCs than with (volatile) crypto-assets. The authors argue that a truly anonymous digital euro wallet for small transactions on the consumer side could not only allow the effective monitoring of businesses, but would actually increase tax compliance. If consumers have access to an anonymous cash-equivalent digital means of payment, they will be less likely to use cash or virtual currency. This in turn will cause a significant increase in available transaction data, while simultaneously granting a much better protection of taxpayers’ rights to privacy in the EU.

cryptocurrency, crypto-asset, AML, taxation, CBDC, digital euro, privacy, taxpayer rights, tax assessment, wallet, reporting standards
Revisiting the Debate on Import-Led Substitution and Export-Led Industrialization: Where Is India Heading Under Self-Reliant India?
Authors: Singh Surendar , Singh Ram
Published: May 2022

The industrial policy is back in vogue of the ‘development discourse’ both in the developed and developing countries due to suboptimal success of market-oriented policies in facilitating socioeconomic and structural transformation. The rise of debate and discourse on industrial policy is also shaped by many other developments such as evolution of newer technologies and their impact on manufacturing, global trade protectionism and pandemic-induced global supply chain disruption( s) among others. The increased interest in the industrial policy at the time of global protectionism has refreshed the old debate in the developing countries on the choice of industrial model, that is, import-substituting industrialization (ISI) and export-led industrialization (ELI). In this context, this article examines India’s industrial strategy under the Self-Reliant India Mission with a special focus on trade policy, investment policy and production-linked incentives (PLI) to understand whether it is adopting policies that squarely fall under the ISI or ELI model. The findings of the article are based on analysis of the trade policy, investment policy and PLI scheme to illustrate that India is adopting policies that broadly fall under the ambit of ISI model thus taking India economy back to re-adoption of inward-looking policies of prereforms era.

industrial policy, trade policy, investment, production subsidies, free trade agreement and industrial revolution
GENUS MELALEUCA: PHYTOCHEMISTRY, PHARMACOLOGY AND EFFECT AGAINST COVID-19
Authors: Ali Kanso Mayssaloune , Aboul Ela Maha , El-Lakany Abdalla , Ali Hijazi Mohamad
Published: April 2022

Medicinal plants are used for the prevention and treatment of many diseases as they are rich in phytochemical constituents (like terpenes, flavonoids, and alkaloids) responsible for the pharmacological effects of these plants. Genus Melaleuca named the tea tree, belonging to the family Myrtaceae, is cultivated in Australia as well as in the Pacific and some regions of Asia. It has been employed in Australian traditional medicine for its broad antimicrobial activity because of its contents of phenolic compounds, monoterpenes, tannins, flavonoids, sesquiterpenes, and essential oils. Owing to the valuable uses of plants of genus Melaleuca, for different medical purposes, it was deemed interest to summarize the previous studies reported from 2004 to 2020 in the available literature about the phytochemistry and pharmacological potential of both volatile and non-volatile components of Melaleuca species. Accordingly, this article may help researchers work on plants of genus Melaleuca to promote clinical applications towards the development of novel drugs of diverse pharmacological activities, including inhibitory effects on COVID 19 obtained from Melaleuca species.
ASSESSMENT OF THE LEBANESE COMMUNITY PHARMACIST KNOWLEDGE, PRACTICE AND BARRIERS REGARDING THE PREVENTION OF OSTEOPOROSIS
Authors: Khram Noura , Aboul Ela Maha , Ali Hijazi Mohamad , Soubra Lama
Published: April 2022

Osteoporosis is a silent skeletal disease that is often recognized when fractures occur as a result of minimal trauma. Limited studies have assessed the degree of pharmacists’ involvement in osteoporosis prevention, risk-assessment/screening and physician referrals. To assess the Lebanese community pharmacists’ knowledge, practice and barriers regarding osteoporosis prevention. Secondary aim is to assess the pharmacists’ ability to identify high-risk patients who should be referred for bone mineral density (BMD) testing. A cross-sectional study was carried out in Beirut, Lebanon between September and October 2020 using self-administered questionnaire. Pharmacists completed a multi-component questionnaire that consisted of socio-demographic characteristics, practices, knowledge and barriers in relation to osteoporosis prevention and high-risk identification. Frequencies and proportions were used to describe the data. Simple and multiple linear regression analysis were used to examine the determinants of knowledge in the study population. The majority of pharmacists were rarely/never involved in counseling patients on osteoporosis risk factors (57.5%) and healthy lifestyle habits (62.5%) as well as engaging in risk-assessment (63.1%), screening using Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) (0%) and physician referrals (sometimes-55.6%). In addition, pharmacists were also scarcely involved in reducing the risk of falls (55.1-59.4%). Pharmacists were knowledgeable about osteoporosis prevention however had important gaps in the diseases that increase osteoporosis risk as well as in FRAX tool, indications that require BMD testing and increased risk of fall medications. Significant predictors of knowledge were receiving postgraduate training on osteoporosis and earning the pharmacy degree from a university in Lebanon. Barriers to providing osteoporosis services included lack of time, staff, space, patients’ interest in prevention activities and limited inter-professional collaboration. The study findings provided important insights on the practices, knowledge and barriers of pharmacists regarding osteoporosis prevention and high-risk identification. Concerted efforts of multiple stakeholders are needed to promote the active role of community pharmacists in order to reduce the risk of morbidity, mortality and health-care costs associated with osteoporosis and related fractures.
Denizaltılarında Havadan Bağımsız Tahrik Sistemi Olarak Kullanılan MESMA Sisteminin Termodinamik Performans Analizi
Authors: ÖZSARI İbrahim
Published: April 2022

Dünya genelinde, denizlerin sualtı stratejik gücü, gün geçtikçe daha da önemli bir hale gelmektedir. Bu nedenle deniz kuvvetlerinin stratejik düşüncesinde denizaltıların yeri ve önemi gün geçtikçe artmaktadır. Denizaltılar birçok kişi tarafından en gelişmiş ve güçlü savaş araçları olarak kabul edilir. Denizlerde yeni güç odakları ve tehditlerin oluşması nedeni ile ülkelerin sualtı savaş platformlarına ilgileri artmıştır. Bu yüzden günümüzde gelişmiş, yüksek kabiliyetli denizaltılar için büyük yatırımlar yapılmaktadır. Bu çalışmada, denizaltılarında havadan bağımsız tahrik sistemi olarak kullanılan MESMA sisteminin termodinamik performans analizi yapılmıştır. İlk olarak MESMA sisteminin çalışma prensibi gösterilmiştir. MESMA sistemini oluşturan bileşenlerin enerji ve ekserji hesaplamaları yapılmıştır. MESMA sisteminin birincil ve en önemli bölümü olan yanmanın olduğu kısımda detaylı yanma analizi yapılmıştır. Sistemde aktif olarak kullanılmış metanol ve etanol yakıtlarının yanma ürünleri ve yanma ekserjisi, %21 ve %25 oksijen oranlı yanmalardaki sonuçları ile kıyaslanmıştır. Tüm sistemin elde edilen net güç değerleri etanol ve metanol yakıtlarının üç farklı oksijen oranına göre yanması, ekivalans oranı ve yanma odası giriş sıcaklığının değişimi ile sunulmuştur. Net güç bakımından etanol ile metanol yanmasının 10 ile 50 kW arasında bir farkla sonuçlandığı tespit edilmiştir. Yanmadaki oksijen oranının artması ile elde edilen gücün arttığı gösterilmiştir. Ayrıca yanma odası giriş sıcaklığı arttıkça sistem gücü artmıştır. Elde edilen güçler yakın olmasına rağmen verim bakımından incelendiğinde, metanol yanmasının etanol yanmasından belirgin bir fazlalığı olduğu sonucuna ulaşılmıştır. Verim açısından iki yakıt arasında 5 puanlık fark oluşmuştur. Ayrıca ekolojik performans katsayısı (Ecological coefficient of performance/ECOP) yönünden incelenerek hangi şartlarda daha çevre dostu performans elde edileceği gösterilmiştir. Ekolojik performans katsayısı (ECOP) ekivalans oranın 0,3’den 1’e kadar artması ile azalarak artan bir grafik çizmiştir. Ekivalans oranın 1’den 1,5’e bir miktar azaldıktan sonra yatay olarak devam etmiştir. Ekolojik performans katsayısı (ECOP) bakımından metanol yakıtının daha avantajlı olduğu ortaya koyulmuştur.
PERSEPSI PENDAMPINGAN PERAN ANGGOTA KOPKAR TNI AD DALAM MELAKUKAN MANAJEMEN PENINGKATAN KESEJAHTERAAN DI MASA PANDEMI
Authors: Hidayat Taufik , Aslami Nuri
Published: April 2022

The decline in income for Employee Cooperative (Kopkar) members, especially within the scope of the Indonesian Army (TNI), is a result of the  Covid-19 pandemic's impact. As a direct consequence, it is not unavoidable for members to use cooperatives as a means for economic preservation. This study aims to gain a better understanding of the economy's happiness and prosperity and to strengthen the management function of TNI members during the Covid-19 pandemic. This research method is qualitative in nature and is primarily focused on data analysis by data reduction, data presentation, and results. The technique employed reveals that the presence of the Employee Cooperative of Indonesian Army during the Covid-19 pandemic contributed significantly in addressing the daily necessities of Indonesian military troops in the form of food and other necessities. The cooperative operates a savings and lending unit system to assist personnel of the Indonesian Army and their families with everyday necessities throughout the pandemic. Savings and loan units are monies borrowed for the following month and paid back by a monthly salary deduction for each member. Therefore, it can be concluded that the establishment of cooperatives to address the basic and daily needs of the community and members of the TNI AD in order to stabilize the business through the administration of the Employee Cooperative (Kopkar) Kodam 1/Bukit Barisan program.
Türkiye Kültürel Formasyonunda Kahvehane ve Oyun
Authors: ATASEVER Mahmut Burak
Published: April 2022

Osmanlı modernleşme döneminde toplumun sosyal ve psikolojik ihtiyaçlarını karşılamaya yönelik, başta İstanbul’da olmak üzere, bir araç-mekân olarak zorunlu bir biçimde kahvehane adı verilen mekânlar ortaya çıkmıştır. Bu mekânların, oyun oynayan insan anlamında Homo Ludens’ in, Türkiye kültürel formasyonuna özel biçimiyle oyunsal tinin, kendini yeniden hatırlamasının ve özünde aynı kalarak değişik formlara bürünmesinin bir sonucu olarak ortaya çıktığı saptanmaktadır. Bu makalede sosyal ve kültürel bir kurum olarak kahvehanenin, başlangıçta bir içecek olarak kahveye ulaşmak amacına ek olarak, oyunsallık denen ve antropolojik bir nitelikte tüm insanlarda mevcut bulunduğu varsayılan tinsel özün gerektirdiği bir mekân arayışıyla eş zamanlı oluşu ele alınmıştır. Dünya üzerindeki benzer örneklerinden farklı olarak ise Homo Ludens’ in, Türkiye kültürel formasyonu içinde tarihsel olarak kökeni Şamanizm’e dayandırılabilecek oyunsal pratiklerin, teatral bir düzlemde ortaya çıkması sonucu kahvehane ve günümüzün modern kafelerine uzanan bir düzlemde yaşadığı değişim ve dönüşümler ele alınmıştır. Bu değişim ve dönüşümün tinsel özü baki kalmakla birlikte, gündelik pratiklerle şekillenen dünyevi doğası ortaya konulmuştur. Bu araştırma sosyal, politik, kültürel, tarihsel ve felsefi bir zeminden gerçekleştirilmiştir.