bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
At-Taqwim wa Manhajuhu fi Qiyasi Tahqiqi al-Ahdaf at-Tarbawiyah
Authors: Abd. Qadir Ach. Mahfudz
Published: April 2021

The educational evaluation is a systematic process in collecting data, analyzing, interpreting information or data obtained by the holder in the framework of answering questions that arise for the progress and improvement of education.  Evaluation as an action or process at least has three main functions namely Measuring progress, Supporting the preparation of plans, Improving or refining the process. The aim of this study is finding the relevant methods to find out the quality of students being able to find material that is in accordance with their abilities in order to create acceleration of the achievement of educational goals.

The method used is a literature review method by collecting data needed from primary and secondary sources so as to create good and useful study. From the results of this study, the author found an effective and efficient way of measuring students' competencies and found techniques to detect weaknesses and strengths in their knowledge.
Pandemia, economía y políticas multinivel. Los casos de las provincias de Chaco y Corrientes
Authors: Ferrero Lucas , Hisgen Carlos Matías , Álvarez Diego Ramón
Published: April 2021

Existen dificultades en tiempo real para mejorar la comprensión del fenómeno epidemiológico COVID-19, de su interacción con variables sociales, económicas, y con las respuestas adecuadas de política pública. El objetivo principal de este trabajo es responder a estas necesidades en el contexto de emergencia para contribuir a mejorar las capacidades de resiliencia del sistema socioeconómico regional. Para ello, adaptamos, integramos y extendemos marcos referenciales utilizados en aplicaciones al caso actual con los siguientes pilares: a) Sistemas y modelos socioeconómicos (econométricos y calibrados); b) Sanitarios-epidemiológicos (SEIR); c) Determinación de políticas óptimas sociales, sectoriales y sanitarias, basados en adaptaciones de modelos de economía del sector público; d) Criterios establecidos y en desarrollo para identificar segmentaciones y fuentes de heterogeneidad relevantes en función de flexibilidad contractual, categoría “social” de la actividad, segmentación socioeconómica, ubicación y tamaño, entre otros, que contribuyan a determinar variaciones en costos y beneficios sociales y espacios de mejoras en las políticas públicas aplicadas. Los resultados son de utilización práctica, como la realización de pronósticos de evolución condicionada de variables epidemiológicas, sociales, y por actividad, así como para la determinación de escenarios de estrés relevantes para el diseño de políticas de contingencias. Los desarrollos corresponden a las provincias de Corrientes y de Chaco que, al momento, presentan dinámicas epidemiológicas marcadamente diferentes.
El turismo como dinamizador de las economías regionales: el caso de la comunidad mapuche Puel
Authors: Spinelli Micaela Abigail
Published: April 2021

El turismo de base comunitaria es una actividad que, según Sansolo y Burstzyn (2009), tiene como componentes la conservación del medio ambiente, la visibilización de la identidad cultural y la generación de beneficios directos para las comunidades. Asimismo la economía depende de la actividad turística, principalmente a través de la recepción de divisas y de la creación de empleo que puede surgir a partir del desarrollo de la misma. Esta investigación pretende demostrar que hasta hace pocos años la comunidad mapuche se dedicaba exclusivamente a la cría de animales, sin contemplar otras posibilidades para la dinamización de su economía. Sin embargo, han notado la necesidad de cambiar su paradigma y desde el año 2000 se encuentra en funcionamiento el primer y único Parque de Nieve administrado por una comunidad indígena, ubicado en el Cerro Batea Mahuida, localidad de Villa Pehuenia, Neuquén, Argentina. Con el análisis del caso se observa que, si bien la comunidad ha podido diversificar su mercado logrando así su autosustento, el potencial emprendimiento no logra fortalecerse. Por tal motivo, se propone una serie de recomendaciones a fin de revertir dicho escenario. Éstas pretenden aprovechar los recursos actuales y generar alianzas con distintos organismos propiciando un modelo de desarrollo que promueva la inserción de sus miembros a una actividad que beneficia el crecimiento de toda la localidad.
Revisión metodológica del cálculo de la letra l del producto bruto geográfico de Chaco serie 2004-2015
Authors: Soria Ojeda Alcira Patricia , Bermúdez Julieta
Published: April 2021

En 2013, se realizó el cambio de año base del Producto Bruto Geográfico (PBG) del Chaco, efectuándose antes del cambio de base del Producto Interno Bruto; por lo que la modificación provincial se realizó sin contar con la metodología propuesta luego por el Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Censos (INDEC) para el cálculo del indicador nacional. Así, esta ponencia está enfocada en la definición de ajustes metodológicos para mejorar el cálculo de la letra L (Administración pública y defensa, y planes de seguridad social de afiliación obligatoria) del PBG provincial. Se presenta el análisis del cálculo actual, comparando con la metodología propuesta por la Dirección Nacional de Cuentas Nacionales del INDEC y las definiciones de organismos internacionales para la estimación de este sector de actividad. Asimismo, se realiza una comparación del clasificador usado actualmente con la última versión del sugerido por Naciones Unidas. Se concluye que ambas metodologías no presentan significativas discrepancias, pero se realizan recomendaciones para mejorar las estimaciones del nivel municipal, de la rama de seguridad social y del gasto de la administración nacional correspondiente al Chaco; y para enriquecer el uso de índices. A su vez, la comparación de los clasificadores no evidencia cambios significativos, pero justifica la necesidad de actualización.
Experimentos en ciencias sociales: energías renovables y pobreza energética en el sur de la provincia de Buenos Aires-Argentina
Authors: González Fernando Antonio , Reyes Pontet Mauro David , Zabaloy María Florencia , Ibáñez Martín María , London Silvia
Published: April 2021

La existencia, en el hogar, de privaciones en el acceso a servicios básicos se torna especialmente relevante en el actual contexto de pandemia por la enfermedad del coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). En este trabajo se presentan los resultados obtenidos en la primera etapa del proyecto Energías renovables como herramienta de reducción de la pobreza energética. Una prueba piloto en barrios vulnerables de Bahía Blanca. El mismo tiene por objetivo la implementación de colectores solares para brindar, a hogares en barrios vulnerables, agua caliente sanitaria y evaluar su impacto a partir de una metodología de ensayos aleatorios controlados. Se presenta una caracterización socioeconómica de la población objetivo considerando relevamientos previos y avances en nuevos relevamientos. También se detalla la planificación metodológica de la intervención, con especial énfasis en las modificaciones que debieron realizarse debido al contexto de aislamiento social.
Los resultados sugieren que los hogares del barrio 9 de Noviembre se encuentran ampliamente rezagados en términos de desarrollo y bienestar en relación al promedio de la ciudad. Esta situación es una constante según surge de, al menos, dos relevamientos de hogares (2016 y 2020). En la implementación de ensayos controlados en Economía, se concibe esencial la consideración explícita de aquellos factores no controlables por el investigador.
Features of CT scan for the diagnosis of hypertrophy of the styloid processes of the temporal bone and Eagle’s syndrome
Authors: Pukhlik Sergey M. , Shchelkunov Anatolii P. , Shchelkunov Oleksandr A.
Published: April 2021

Topicality: The Eagle's syndrome is a disease that is caused by irritation of the nervous, vascular and muscular structures that surround the subcutaneous process of the temporal bone. A syndrome manifested by chronic pain at the deep part of the lateral region of the face, which irradiates into the root of the tongue, pharynx and ear, dysphagia, symptoms of disorders of the circulation of the brain. Symptoms of Eagle’s syndrome are found in various otolaryngological, dental, neurological diseases.
Purpose of the study: determine and evaluate the most significant and distinctive X-ray signs of hypertrophied styloid processes of the temporal bone; reveal differences in growth options and X-ray structure of the styloid processes of the temporal bone in accordance with histological data; eEvaluate the effect of conservative treatment of stylohyoid syndrome depending on different growth options for the styloid process of the temporal bone, according of the data of computed tomography.
Materials and methods of research: at the process of our work based on diagnostics and treatment of stylohyoid syndrome, we analyzed 86 clinical cases: 61 women and 25 men. Patients age varies from 35 till 70 years.
CT images with contrasting of the great vessels of the neck and functional tests. Based on the analysis, we developed a scheme for determining the variants of the styloid process growth, based on the CT data, in relation to the data of the histological examination of the styloid processes of the patients we operated on.
Results: The analysis of CT images and histological studies allows us to divide the lengthening of the styloid processes of the temporal bone into two groups, which we give the name "ossification", that is, the actual growth of the styloid process and "calcification", that is, dystrophic changes and deposits of calcium salts in the ligament. Accordingly, we are developing approaches to conservative or to surgical treatment of this pathology, taking into account the CT data, depending on the growth options of the styloid process of the temporal bone.
Análisis de las Propiedades Psicométricas de la Escala de Autoeficacia en el Trabajo en una Muestra de Personas Empleadas en Puerto Rico
Authors: Román-Cabán Yahaira , Martínez-Lugo Miguel , Rodríguez-Montalbán Ramón
Published: April 2021

El objetivo de este estudio es determinar las propiedades psicométricas de la Escala de Autoeficacia en el Trabajo de Pepe et al. (2010): validez de constructo, análisis de ítems, análisis de fiabilidad y validez discriminante. El estudio consistió en un análisis secundario de datos con una muestra total de 678 personas trabajando en diversos sectores laborales en Puerto Rico. Los resultados de esta investigación demuestran, que la escala no cumple con los criterios de validez discriminante entre los factores de voluntad y compromiso. Concluimos, que uno de los factores que influye en que la escala no posea las características psicométricas adecuadas es la carencia de diferentes grados de desafío o impedimento para un rendimiento exitoso en la redacción de los ítems de la escala lo cual es recomendado por Bandura.
Efecto del Manejo de Identidad LGBTT+ en el Bienestar Psicológico
Authors: Vélez Rios Brandon , Martínez-Taboas Alfonso , Pérez-Pedrogo Coralee
Published: April 2021

La presente investigación, guiada por el Modelo de Estrés de Minorías (Meyer, 2003), busca examinar el efecto del manejo de la orientación sexual o identidad de género, entiéndase divulgación u ocultación, en la relación de homonegatividad internalizada/transfobia internalizada con el bienestar psicológico en personas LGBTT+ en Puerto Rico. Se tradujeron cuatro instrumentos, dos relacionados al manejo de la identidad minoritaria (ocultación o divulgación), y dos sobre los ideales negativos internalizados, y se calculó su confiabilidad. La muestra consistió de 203 participantes, donde 165 se identificaron como cisgénero, y 38 como trans u otro género. Los hallazgos mostraron que los ideales negativos internalizados predijeron el manejo de la identidad minoritaria para las personas LGBTT+. No obstante, la relación entre los ideales negativos internalizados y el bienestar psicológico solo se confirmó para los ideales de la orientación sexual, y no de la identidad de género, lo cual sugiere que otros factores pueden explicar de forma más significativa el bienestar en las personas transgénero. Se presenta una discusión de las implicaciones de estos resultados. A su vez, se describen los retos y las limitaciones del estudio debido al COVID-19, así como recomendaciones para futuros estudios.
Milli İktisatın İlk Şirketi: Anadolu Milli Mahsulat Osmanlı Anonim Şirketi
Authors: Saya Mehmet , Alkis Muhammed Cihad
Published: April 2021

II. Meşrutiyet sonrası oluşan siyasi liberalizm, dönemin ekonomisine de yansıyarak gayrimüslim kesimin ekonomideki faaliyetlerini daha da arttırmasına yol açmıştır. Gayrimüslimlerin bu yeni durumu, ilk zamanlar sorun olmasa da Trablusgarp’ın yitirilmesi ve Balkanlar’daki toprak kaybının ardından milliyetçi söylemler güçlenmiştir. I. Dünya Savaşı’nın patlak vermesiyle beraber Osmanlı ekonomisi için daha önce dillendirilen milli iktisat politikasının daha iyi bir zemin bulmasına yol açmıştır. Savaş döneminde iktidarda olan İttihat ve Terakki Hükümeti, savunduğu milli iktisat politikasına paralel biçimde ekonomiye müdahalelerde bulunarak bir yandan yerli ve milli bir burjuvazi yaratmak için Müslüman-Türk unsuru iltimaslı bir girişimciliğe yönlendirip spekülatif kazançları görmezden gelirken bir yandan da ülkenin iaşesi için milli şirketlerin kurulmasını teşvik etmiştir. Bu süreçte Anadolu Milli Mahsulat Osmanlı Anonim Şirketi de milli iktisat politikasının uygulama alanı bulduğu ilk şirket olarak 1915 yılında kurulmuştur. Şirket, ilk olması bakımından ve milli iktisat politikalarının başarısının sınanması açısından önemli bir yer tutmaktadır. Bu çalışmanın amacı, milli iktisat politikasının ilk şirketi olan Anadolu Milli Mahsulat Osmanlı Anonim Şirketi’ni Milli Kütüphane, Türk Tarih Kurumu ve Cumhurbaşkanlığı Devlet Arşivleri’nden ulaşılan kuruluş nizamnamesi, şirketin faaliyetlerine yönelik iki yıla ait rapor, belge ve diğer kaynaklar üzerinden incelemektir.
Potential Processing of Biogas Products for the Needs of Villagers in Jimbaran Village, Puspo District, Pasuruan Regency
Authors: Farrah Amala Ikbar , Gunawan Prayitno  , Alfisyah Beta Dwiyanti , Arizkha Yulia Faizatul , Nur Zahara Azizah
Published: April 2021

The rise follows the increase in population in energy consumption that causes a decrease in the supply of non-renewable energy in the world. With its wealth in natural resources, Indonesia is even predicted to experience a decline in oil supply as renewable energy within 15 years.  Therefore, energy transformation needs to be done slowly. This research emphasizes renewable energy utilization projects with high potential that have not been optimized, one of which is through cow manure processing into biogas products. The purpose of the research in Jimbaran Village, Puspo Subdistrict, Pasuruan Regency is to further explore the plan of processing cow manure into Jimbaran Village's biogas products. The method used in research activities is the descriptive research method. Data collection is done online through virtual calls between researchers and the Jimbaran village apparatus, the Village Secretariat. The data obtained were analyzed with PRA (Participatory Rural Appraisal) and RRA (Rapid Rural Appraisal) data analysis techniques. Based on the survey results and data analysis, a biodigester procurement project plan was obtained as a form of a program developed in the study area to utilize cow manure as input for renewable energy processing.  Through the biodigester procurement plan, it is expected that biogas products can provide fuel to rural communities with their farms' potential
Enflasyon, Bütçe Açığı ve Vergi Gelirleri İlişkisi: Türkiye Örneği
Authors: Cam Muhammed , Temur Yusuf
Published: April 2021

Günümüzde bütçe açıkları ve enflasyon olgusu ülkelerin oldukça önemli makroekonomik sorunları arasındadır. Ayrıca kamusal hizmet sunumunda kaynak teşkil eden vergi gelirlerinin de enflasyon ve bütçe açıkları bağlamında incelenmesi gerektiği düşünülmektedir. Bu amaçla çalışmada enflasyon, bütçe açıkları ve vergi gelirleri arasındaki ilişki belirlenmeye çalışılmıştır. Bu bağlamda VAR modeline dayalı, etki tepki analizi ve varyans ayrıştırma hesaplamasından yararlanılmıştır. Çalışma 2000-2018 dönemine ait aylık zaman serisi analizine dayanmaktadır. Söz konusu veri seti Merkez Bankası EVDS veri bankasından sağlanmıştır. Sonuç olarak enflasyon, vergi gelirleri ve bütçe açıkları arasında karşılıklı bir etkileşim olduğu belirlenmiştir.
Teologi Islam Persepektif Harun Nasution
Authors: Muh. Subhan Ashari
Published: April 2021

Artikel ini menjelaskan pandangan Harun Nasution atas sejarah dan pergolakan pemikiran dalam teologi Islam. Dalam buku “Teologi Islam” Harun Nasution melihat teologi Islam yang diajarkan di Indonesia pada umumnya adalah teologi dalam format ilmu tauhid yang kurang mendalam dan kurang filosofis. Selain itu, teologi Islam yang diajarkan adalah teologi Asy’ariyyah, sehingga timbul kesan di kalangan sementara umat Islam Indonesia bahwa inilah satu-satunya teologi yang ada dalam agama Islam. Dalam buku tersebut Harun Nasution membagi dua bagian. Pertama, Harun Nasution berusaha menjelaskan sejarah timbulnya persoalan-persoalan dalam teologi Islam. Kedua, ia mencoba memberikan analisa dan perbandingan di antara aliran-aliran yang ada dalam Ilmu Kalam. Terakhir, ia mecoba membandingkan fungsi akal dan wahyu antara mazhab Muktazilah dan Asy’ariyyah.
Obtaining and Characterizing 3D Printable Polymer Based Composites with BaTiO3 Filler
Authors: Caramitu Alina Ruxandra , Dascalu Radu , Ion Ioana , Tsakiris Violeta , Stancu Nicolae , Aradoaei Mihaela , Ciobanu Romeo Cristian , Bors Adriana Mariana , Lingvay Iosif
Published: April 2021

By the extrusion and injection technique, polymer-based composite samples (polypropylene and thermoplastic polyurethane) were obtained with BaTiO3 filler in concentrations between 0 and 35 %. Following the preliminary characterizations performed by coupled thermal analysis techniques, it was found that the composite samples obtained have thermal stability up to a temperature of about 250 oC and can be processed by extrusion at temperatures between 180 and 240oC. Above this temperature, a series of degradation processes take place by successive thermooxidation with the formation of volatile products.The electrical characterization of the composite samples was performed by the dielectric spectroscopy technique, which showed that the A tga dielectric losses increase as the BaTiO3 content of the composite increases. The maximum increase being recorded at 50 Hz (the slope A tga /% BaTiO3 about 0.003 /% BaTiO3). It was also found, that the electrical conductivity (o) of the composite increases with the increase of content in BaTiO3 so that o at 100 kHz for the composite with 35 % BaTiO3 is about 50 times higher than for the reference sample M 0 (without filler).
Percolation Effects in MCNT-filled Polystyrene: Rheological,Optical, Adhesion and Conductive Investigations
Authors: Barzic Andreea Irina
Published: April 2021

This work is devoted to the preparation and characterization of some polystyrene/multiwall carbon nanotubes (PS/MCNT) systems. The dispersion of the reinforcement agent within the PS medium was done via sonication and the resulting nanocomposites containing 0-40 wt% MCNTs were achieved by solution blending procedure. Shear flow and viscoelastic properties were tested by means of rheology, revealing some changes in the sample microstructure. Dispersion curves of the matrix and low filled nanocomposite were registered at variable temperatures. The theoretical refractive index and corresponding dielectric constant at optical frequencies were analyzed as a function of the system composition. Heat transport in the reinforced materials was examined by computer modeling, which enabled calculation of thermal conductivity. Electrical transport features were assessed using a theoretical approach relying on the physical properties of each phase. The surface adhesion of the samples with various materials was determined to check the suitability for applications in technical or bio-related fields.
�Green Carbon� from Algae for Automotive Applications
Authors: Zgaverdea Alina Corina , Ratiu Sorin Aurel
Published: April 2021

Due to the continuous decrease in the level of oil resource, nowadays researchers from all fields are concerned with the creation of new bio plastics with special properties. The present work presents a series of such properties, which become achievable when reinforcing organic fibre materials obtained by reactive extrusion of thermoplastic Polyurethan (TPU) with Polylactid-Acid (PLA) in a twin-screw extruder and covalently linked into PLA-TPU-Blends, through the innovative one-step process technology, using the IMC Krauss Maffei injection moulding compounder, at the IKT University of Stuttgart. The elongation at break of PLA-TPU-Blends and the impact strength could be increased without significant reduction of strength and stiffness. A balanced relation between improved impact strength and reduced stiffness can be achieved by varying of the blend components. By using the partially biobased Polyurethane and natural fibres, a biobased content of more than 90% could be achieved. More and more advanced technologies allow the manufacture of components with reinforcements made of glass fibres, natural or carbon fibres obtained from polypropylene or Lignin. Due to their low specific weight compared to glass, carbon fibres are preferred for lightweight structures in the automotive or aeronautics industries. Green Carbon fibres, made in innovative ways from acrylonitrile resulting in the production of Bio-Diesel from algae, can successfully replace the conventional carbon fibres of Polypropylene, having identical properties. Fibre reinforcement aims to improve mechanical strength and impact resistance and increases the dimensional stability under heat of the composite. This feasibility study shows a method to realize fibre-reinforced materials using Green Carbon fibres with remarkable stability and rigidity similar or better than aluminum and steel for lightweight constructions.
Studying the Properties of PVdF-HFP Based Lithium Polymer Electrolytes Using non-ionic Surfactants as Plasticizers
Authors: Zubizarreta Leire , Gil-Agusti Mayte , Espinosa Juan Carlos , Garcia-Pellicer Marta , Quijano-Lopez Alfredo
Published: April 2021

In this study, two different non-ionic surfactants have been evaluated as a plasticizer in lithium polymer electrolytes and compared with an organic carbonate-based plasticizer. To that end, non-ionic surfactants with different molecular weight and structure have been selected (Triton� X-100 and Brij�L23) and compared with organic carbonates (EC:DEC1:1) as plasticizers in lithium polymer electrolytes. The effect of the plasticizer content, salt content and surfactant characteristics on properties such as ionic conductivity, thermal stability and electrochemical stability of lithium polymer electrolytes has been studied. The results obtained show that the non-ionic surfactants studied as plasticizers (Triton� X-100 and Brij�L23) give lithium polymer electrolytes with higher thermal and electrochemical stability than organic carbonates, thus making them promising plasticizers for lithium polymer electrolytes, especially for high voltage lithium-ion batteries. Surfactant structure could influence the ionic conductivity of the polymer electrolytes, with the linear surfactants being more suitable for this application.
Beyond Likert ratings: Improving the robustness of developmental research measurement using best–worst scaling
Authors: Burton Nichola , Burton Michael , Fisher Carmen , Peña Patricia González , Rhodes Gillian , Ewing Louise
Published: April 2021

Some of the ‘best practice’ approaches to ensuring reproducibility of research can be difficult to implement in the developmental and clinical domains, where sample sizes and session lengths are constrained by the practicalities of recruitment and testing. For this reason, an important area of improvement to target is the reliability of measurement. Here we demonstrate that best–worst scaling (BWS) provides a superior alternative to Likert ratings for measuring children’s subjective impressions. Seventy-three children aged 5–6 years rated the trustworthiness of faces using either Likert ratings or BWS over two sessions. Individual children’s ratings in the BWS condition were significantly more consistent from session 1 to session 2 than those in the Likert condition, a finding we also replicate with a large adult sample (N = 72). BWS also produced more reliable ratings at the group level than Likert ratings in the child sample. These findings indicate that BWS is a developmentally appropriate response format that can deliver substantial improvements in reliability of measurement, which can increase our confidence in the robustness of findings with children.
A contribution to the centipede (Chilopoda: Geophilomorpha, Scolopendromorpha) fauna of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan
Authors: Dyachkov Yurii V. , Nedoev Khozhiakbar Kh.
Published: April 2021

Cryptops doriae Pocock, 1891 and Scolopendra cingulata Latreille, 1829 are new to the fauna of Uzbekistan, while Polyporogaster porosa (Sseliwanoff, 1881) is new to Turkmenistan. Pachymerium ferrugineum (C.L. Koch, 1835) is new to the Sirdaryo Region, while Bothriogaster signata (Kessler, 1874) is formally new to the Qashqadaryo and Sirdaryo Regions of Uzbekistan. The full lists of the chilopod species from Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan are provided: 22 and 12 species, respectively.
Cytokine Storm Syndrome, a potential cause of death in COVID-19 patients
Authors: Raza Imran Mansoor , Zubia Zaman  , Yamna Waseem
Published: April 2021

COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has infected more than two million people worldwide accounting for more than 130,000 mortalities. [1] Its mortality rate of 3.4% is driven by lower respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia, septic shock, multiorgan failure and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), the latter being the leading cause of mortality. [2] With constantly evolving research regarding the virus’s pathophysiology, possible treatment regimens and trials for potential vaccines having been undergone, the field of medicine is subjected to new data concerning the cause and cure of the current global crisis.
 
Cytokine storm syndrome (CSS) is a hyperinflammatory state characterized by a fulminant and fatal hypercytokinemia with multiorgan failure. CSS occurs due to the virus’s ability to activate an uncontrolled immune response leading to local and systemic crisis. [3] Hyper-inflammation in COVID-19 illustrates elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines including interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor-?, and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF). [5] Similar, fulminant cytokine production by lung macrophages and pneumocytes was observed in previous SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV epidemics. [4] Clinical features of CSS include unremitting fever, hyperferritinemia and elevated cytokine levels as well as pulmonary involvement (including ARDS). Data from a retrospective, multicenter study from China indicated hyperferritinemia and hypercytokinemia in COVID-19 patients suggestive of mortalities due to virus related hyperinflammation. [4]
 
Proportionally increased cytokine levels with the severity of COVID-19 sheds light through a different perspective on the management and treatment of the disease. A multicentre, randomized controlled trial of tocilizumab (IL-6 receptor blocker, used for CSS), has been approved in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia and elevated IL-6 in China (ChiCTR2000029765), reporting significantly reduced fever and improved respiratory function. [5] Moreover, surge in cytokines is in turn mediated by catecholamines. The latter enhances IL-6 production through alpha-1 adrenergic receptor (?1-AR) signaling. It was concluded that ARDS patients with prior use of ?1-AR antagonists like prazosin in the year before their diagnosis were about less likely to need to be placed on a ventilator after their diagnosis.[4] This encourages its use as a prophylactic inhibitor for COVID-19.
 
We believe that critically ill patients of COVID-19 should be tested for hyperinflammation using laboratory trends (hyperferritinemia, low platelet count, low erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and the HScore (used to diagnose CSS) to distinguish the subgroup of patients for whom immunosuppressive drug therapy could help improve mortality. [5]
Gastrointestinal manifestations of COVID-19 and possibility of feco-oral route of transmission
Authors: Ahmed Zubair
Published: April 2021

Covid-19 is a global health emergency originating from a small cluster of pneumonia like cases which spread to an extent to be regarded as a pandemic by WHO.in this review we discuss specifically the gastrointestinal manifestations of SARS CoV-2 positive patients in the published literature along with recent detection of SARS CoV-2 RNA in stool specimens and investigate the possible of feco oral route of viral transmission .
Social Media; its role in the infodemic of COVID-19
Authors: Akbar Mohammad Ali , Zubia Zaman  , Muhammad Ahsan Abbasi  , Imran Mansoor Raza  , Muneeza Ali  , Yusra Najam
Published: April 2021

Introduction: A pandemic is defined as an outbreak of a disease that occurs over a wide geographic area and affects an exceptionally high proportion of the global population.Objective: This study aims to observe the discrepancies that social media provides users in terms of information regarding COVID-19 and how that information can affect practices for prevention against the virus.Methods: A cross-sectional study, with a non-probability convenience sampling technique, was conducted during April 2020. An online survey was created on Google Forms in the English language, and participants were invited to complete and submit the form. A total of 402 responses were received in one month. Citizens of age 18-60 partook in the study, and respondents tested positive for Covid-19 were excluded from the study as it could lead to bias.Results: A total of 375 responses were selected out of the 402 responses received. Six responses were excluded who tested positive for Covid-19, and 21 responses were rejected as they were filled incompletely. The mean age of respondents was 27.53 years (S.D 8.188), and there were more females, 52.53% (n=197) than male, 46.67%(175) participants. A Pearson correlation (r) of 0.383 between knowledge and practices of people who use social media as their primary source of information suggests a moderate linear correlation. People who did not use social media as their primary source of information had a stronger linear correlation (r=0.640) between knowledge and practices.Conclusion: According to the study, social media provided people with correct knowledge as well as encouraged efficient practices while also contributing to the spread of false news and malpractices.
COVID-19: Pakistan’s Preparedness and response
Authors: Khan Sahrish , Atiq ur Rahman  , Muhammad Imran
Published: April 2021

At the end of December 2019 in the Wuhan City of China, a novel coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak has been proclaimed. Several cases have arisen in other cities of China. It spread simultaneously worldwide in 209 countries of Europe, Australia, America, Asia, and Pakistan. Mortality is high; millions of people have been affected while cases are rapidly increasing in the world. Different controlling strategies have been adopted for COVID-19. Pakistan took rigorous measures like the hospital, specific laboratories for testing, centres for quarantine, awareness campaign, Ehsaas Emergency Cash Programme and lockdown for controlling this virus. There is no antiviral and vaccine based treatment only preventive measures are taken.
The need of personal protective equipment to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in health care workers
Authors: Jatoi Nadia Nazir , Hafsa Nazir Jatoi  , Muhammad Saif Abbasi  , Rohan Kumar Ochani
Published: April 2021

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The ‘Real’ Wolf of Wall Street- COVID-19’s Impact on Healthcare Systems and Global Economies
Authors: Sajid Mir Ibrahim , Alizah Pervaiz Hashmi  , Dania Khan  , Mir Rafe Sajid  , Rizwan Sohail  , Sameen Siddiqi
Published: April 2021

Background: Globally, over 7.8 million people have contracted COVID-19 and > 430,000 have died. The outbreak has strangled the world economy and has tested the resilience of all health systems —robust or fragile.
Main Text:  A thorough literature review of published articles in Medline, Web of Science, Google Scholar, renowned business analysis blogs, and indexed economic journals using keywords: novel coronavirus, economy, and healthcare systems was carried out with particular emphasis on United States (U.S.) healthcare systems, National Health Service (NHS) in United Kingdome (U.K.), China, Singapore and Pakistan. While all categories of the economy have been affected, pandemic has directly affected people and possession processing services the most. For all countries analyzed, an average economic impact of -4.5% of GDP is expected. Despite its success, the China model cannot be the go-to paradigm everywhere as level of compliance to local authorities, harsh lockdown measures, and ability to quickly complete labor-intensive projects may not be replicable in other countries.
Conclusions: COVID-19 pandemic has exposed multiple fault lines in health systems in term of accessibility, adaptability, and preparedness. It has also become clear that a global economy centered on the principle of capital accumulation and not societal uplift is not sustainable through times of crises.
Acne Vulgaris in University Students: Prevalence, Knowledge and Lifestyle Association
Authors: Abbas Hamna , Awan Javeria , Maryam Ishfaq
Published: April 2021

Objectives:
To assess the prevalence, level of knowledge and lifestyle association of acne vulgaris among undergraduate medical students of a public sector institute of Pakistan and to evaluate the level of knowledge and different lifestyle factors with gender and all the years of study. We aim to find most common factor associated with acne in our young generation, their understanding and misconception so that the clinical perception of future health professionals and therefore of the community regarding acne vulagris can be improved.
Methodology
In this cross-sectional study carried out among undergraduate medical students, the data was collected using stratified random sampling technique. A paper-based self-made English questionnaire was distributed to the participants by the researchers. Chi square test was used to compare differences of different categorical variables across gender and academic years.
Results:
A total of 170 medical students were recruited for the study according to the calculated sample size. More than half of the students (n:110; 64.7%) had acne vulgaris out of which 75 (68%) were females. Years of study were significantly related to knowledge. Gender was significantly related to lifestyle where females had acne lesions appearing more at the time of stress. However, females had less disturbed sleep as compared to males.
Conclusions:
Acne is a prevalent problem in the medical community with females being most affected. Help seeking attitude was lacking and knowledge was adequate with some misconceptions. Hormones and stress were the most perceived causal factors. However, stress was the only significantly associated lifestyle factor.
Challenging incidents in health centers and how to deal with it: Physician–Patient bad interactions
Authors: Fatima Feroza , Kadori Waad Ibrahim
Published: April 2021

The physician-patient rapport is the basis of patient care and can have profound implications on clinical outcomes. Ultimately, the principal objective of the physician-patient rapport is to improve patient health outcomes. Stronger physician-patient relationships are correlated with improved patient outcomes. As the relationship between physicians and patients becomes more important, it is essential to understand the factors that influence this relationship.
Rapid transmission of SARS-2 among Individuals - A Mini Review
Authors: Sohail Shehreen , Hamza Rana  , Umar Hassan  , Freeha Sohail  , Mukarram Farooq  , Minaam Farooq
Published: April 2021

The coronavirus disease emerged at the end of 2019 from Wuhan, China, and ultimately resulted in pandemic. It is a single positive-sense RNA virus spreading from person to person through contact in any form. Bats are the natural hosts of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. SARS-CoV-2 has the largest genome as compared to all RNA virus present so far. Spike proteins are responsible for their entrance into the human body. Social distancing and quarantine resulted in the best possible prevention for the less transmission of coronavirus. We performed a narrative review to describe its origin, transmission, pathogenesis, clinical manifestation, social implications, future possibilities, treatment, and vaccination.
Quantifying Feedback from Narrow Line Region Outflows in Nearby Active Galaxies. III. Results for the Seyfert 2 Galaxies Markarian 3, Markarian 78, and NGC 1068*
†
Authors: Revalski Mitchell , Meena Beena , Martinez Francisco , Polack Garrett E. , Crenshaw D. Michael , Kraemer Steven B. , Collins Nicholas R. , Fischer Travis C. , Schmitt Henrique R. , Schmidt Judy , Maksym W. Peter , Rafelski Marc
Published: April 2021

Outflows of ionized gas driven by active galactic nuclei (AGN) may significantly impact the evolution of their host galaxies. However, determining the energetics of these outflows is difficult with spatially unresolved observations that are subject to strong global selection effects. We present part of an ongoing study using Hubble Space Telescope and Apache Point Observatory spectroscopy and imaging to derive spatially resolved mass outflow rates and energetics for narrow-line region outflows in nearby AGN that are based on multi-component photoionization models to account for spatial variations in gas ionization, density, abundances, and dust content. This expanded analysis adds Mrk 3, Mrk 78, and NGC 1068, doubling our earlier sample. We find that the outflows contain total ionized gas masses of M ≈ 105.5–107.5
M
⊙ and reach peak velocities of v ≈ 800–2000 km s−1. The outflows reach maximum mass outflow rates of

yr−1 and encompass total kinetic energies of E ≈ 1054–1056 erg. The outflows extend to radial distances of r ≈ 0.1–3 kpc from the nucleus, with the gas masses, outflow energetics, and radial extents positively correlated with AGN luminosity. The outflow rates are consistent with in situ ionization and acceleration where gas is radiatively driven at multiple radii. These radial variations indicate that spatially resolved observations are essential for localizing AGN feedback and determining the most accurate outflow parameters.
ASASSN-14ko is a Periodic Nuclear Transient in ESO 253-G003
Authors: Payne Anna V. , Shappee Benjamin J. , Hinkle Jason T. , Vallely Patrick J. , Kochanek Christopher S. , Holoien Thomas W.-S. , Auchettl Katie , Stanek K. Z. , Thompson Todd A. , Neustadt Jack M. M. , Tucker Michael A. , Armstrong James D. , Brimacombe Joseph , Cacella Paulo , Cornect Robert , Denneau Larry , Fausnaugh Michael M. , Flewelling Heather , Grupe Dirk , Heinze A. N. , Lopez Laura A. , Monard Berto , Prieto Jose L. , Schneider Adam C. , Sheppard Scott S. , Tonry John L. , Weiland Henry
Published: April 2021

We present the discovery that ASASSN-14ko is a periodically flaring active galactic nucleus at the center of the galaxy ESO 253-G003. At the time of its discovery by the All-Sky Automated Survey for Supernovae (ASAS-SN), it was classified as a supernova close to the nucleus. The subsequent 6 yr of V- and g-band ASAS-SN observations revealed that ASASSN-14ko has nuclear flares occurring at regular intervals. The 17 observed outbursts show evidence of a decreasing period over time, with a mean period of P
0 = 114.2 ± 0.4 days and a period derivative of

. The most recent outburst in 2020 May, which took place as predicted, exhibited spectroscopic changes during the rise and had a UV bright, blackbody spectral energy distribution similar to tidal disruption events (TDEs). The X-ray flux decreased by a factor of 4 at the beginning of the outburst and then returned to its quiescent flux after ∼8 days. The Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite observed an outburst during Sectors 4–6, revealing a rise time of 5.60 ± 0.05 days in the optical and a decline that is best fit with an exponential model. We discuss several possible scenarios to explain ASASSN-14ko’s periodic outbursts, but currently favor a repeated partial TDE. The next outbursts should peak in the optical on UT 2020 September 7.4±1.1 and UT 2020 December 26.5±1.4.
Quasi-periodic Particle Acceleration in a Solar Flare
Authors: Clarke Brendan P. , Hayes Laura A. , Gallagher Peter T. , Maloney Shane A. , Carley Eoin P.
Published: April 2021

A common feature of electromagnetic emission from solar flares is the presence of intensity pulsations that vary as a function of time. Known as quasi-periodic pulsations (QPPs), these variations in flux appear to include periodic components and characteristic timescales. Here, we analyze a GOES M3.7 class flare exhibiting pronounced QPPs across a broad band of wavelengths using imaging and time series analysis. We identify QPPs in the time series of X-ray, low-frequency radio, and extreme ultraviolet (EUV) wavelengths using wavelet analysis, and localize the region of the flare site from which the QPPs originate via X-ray and EUV imaging. It was found that the pulsations within the 171 Å, 1600 Å, soft X-ray, and hard X-ray light curves yielded similar periods of

s,

s,

s, and

s, respectively, indicating a common progenitor. The low-frequency radio emission at 2.5 MHz contained a longer period of ∼231 s. Imaging analysis indicates that the location of the X-ray and EUV pulsations originates from a hard X-ray footpoint linked to a system of nearby open magnetic field lines. Our results suggest that intermittent particle acceleration, likely due to “bursty” magnetic reconnection, is responsible for the QPPs. The precipitating electrons accelerated toward the chromosphere produce the X-ray and EUV pulsations, while the escaping electrons result in low-frequency radio pulses in the form of type III radio bursts. The modulation of the reconnection process, resulting in episodic particle acceleration, explains the presence of these QPPs across the entire spatial range of flaring emission.
On the Color–Metallicity Relation of the Red Clump and the Reddening toward the Magellanic Clouds
Authors: Nataf David M. , Cassisi Santi , Casagrande Luca , Yuan Wenlong , Riess Adam G.
Published: April 2021

The zero point of the reddening toward the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) has been the subject of some dispute. Its uncertainty propagates as a systematic error for methods that measure the extragalactic distance scale through knowledge of the absolute extinction of LMC stars. In an effort to resolve this issue, we used three different methods to calibrate the most widely used metric to predict LMC extinction, the intrinsic color of the red clump, (V − I)
RC,0, for the inner ∼3° of that galaxy. The first approach was to empirically calibrate the color zero points of the BaSTI isochrones over a wide metallicity range of Δ[Fe/H] ≈ 1.10 using measurements of red clump stars in 47 Tuc, the solar neighborhood, and NGC 6791. From these efforts, we also measure these properties of the solar neighborhood red clump, (V − I, G

BP
− K

s
, G − K

s
, G

RP
− K

s
, J − K

s
, H − K

s
, M

I
, M

Ks
)
RC,0 = (1.02, 2.75, 2.18, 1.52, 0.64, 0.15, −0.23, −1.63). The second and third methods were to compare the observed colors of the red clump to those of Cepheids and RR Lyrae in the LMC. With these three methods, we estimated the intrinsic color of the red clump of the LMC to be (V − I)
RC,0,LMC = {≈0.93, 0.91 ± 0.02, 0.89 ± 0.02}, respectively, and similarly, using the first and third methods, we estimated (V − I)
RC,0,SMC = {≈0.85, 0.84 ± 0.02}, respectively, for the Small Magellanic Cloud. We estimate the luminosities to be M

I,RC,LMC = −0.26 and M

I,RC,SMC = −0.37. We show that this has important implications for recent calibrations of the tip of the red giant branch in the Magellanic Clouds used to measure H
0.
Classical Novae Masquerading as Dwarf Novae? Outburst Properties of Cataclysmic Variables with ASAS-SN
Authors: Kawash A. , Chomiuk L. , Strader J. , Aydi E. , Sokolovsky K. V. , Jayasinghe T. , Kochanek C. S. , Schmeer P. , Stanek K. Z. , Mukai K. , Shappee B. , Way Z. , Basinger C. , Holoien T. W.-S. , Prieto J. L.
Published: April 2021

The unprecedented sky coverage and observing cadence of the All-Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN) has resulted in the discovery and continued monitoring of a large sample of Galactic transients. The vast majority of these are accretion-powered dwarf nova outbursts in cataclysmic variable systems, but a small subset are thermonuclear-powered classical novae. Despite improved monitoring of the Galaxy for novae from ASAS-SN and other surveys, the observed Galactic nova rate is still lower than predictions. One way classical novae could be missed is if they are confused with the much larger population of dwarf novae. Here, we examine the properties of 1617 dwarf nova outbursts detected by ASAS-SN and compare them to classical novae. We find that the mean classical nova brightens by ∼11 mag during outburst, while the mean dwarf nova brightens by only ∼5 mag, with the outburst amplitude distributions overlapping by roughly 15%. For the first time, we show that the amplitude of an outburst and the time it takes to decline by two magnitudes from maximum are positively correlated for dwarf nova outbursts. For classical novae, we find that these quantities are negatively correlated, but only weakly, compared to the strong anticorrelation of these quantities found in some previous work. We show that, even if located at large distances, only a small number of putative dwarf novae could be misclassified as classical novae, suggesting that there is minimal confusion between these populations. Future spectroscopic follow-up of these candidates can show whether any are indeed classical novae.
Surveying the X-Ray Behavior of Novae as They Emit γ-Rays
Authors: Gordon A. C. , Aydi E. , Page K. L. , Li Kwan-Lok , Chomiuk L. , Sokolovsky K. V. , Mukai K. , Seitz J.
Published: April 2021

The detection of GeV γ-ray emission from Galactic novae by the Fermi-Large Area Telescope has become routine since 2010, and is generally associated with shocks internal to the nova ejecta. These shocks are also expected to heat plasma to ∼107 K, resulting in detectable X-ray emission. In this paper, we investigate 13 γ-ray emitting novae observed with the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory, searching for 1–10 keV X-ray emission concurrent with γ-ray detections. We also analyze γ-ray observations of novae V407 Lup (2016) and V357 Mus (2018). We find that most novae do eventually show X-ray evidence of hot shocked plasma, but not until the γ-rays have faded below detectability. We suggest that the delayed rise of the X-ray emission is due to large absorbing columns and/or X-ray suppression by corrugated shock fronts. The only nova in our sample with a concurrent X-ray/γ-ray detection is also the only embedded nova (V407 Cyg). This exception supports a scenario where novae with giant companions produce shocks with external circumbinary material and are characterized by lower density environments, in comparison with novae with dwarf companions where shocks occur internal to the dense ejecta.