bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measurement of Financial Performance Using the Concept of Value for Money in The Government of Bandung City
Authors: Sakti Ratumas Resa Anggia
Published: April 2021

In the context of transparency and accountability of public money management, the Bandung City Government uses a tool called e-budgeting. Not only has the objectives of transparency and accountability, but the use of a budget formulation application system using e-budgeting is also expected to be able to improve the government's financial performance to be more economical, efficient, and effective. This study aims to measure the financial performance of the Bandung City Government before and after the use of e-budgeting using the concept of value for money for the 2014-2019 fiscal year. Data analysis used descriptive analysis with quantitative research methods. The results of the study are based on the Analysis of the Bandung City Government Budget Realization Report for the 2014-2016 fiscal year (before the use of e-budgeting) using the concept of Value for money, Bandung City Government financial performance shows economic criteria (78.72%), inefficient (98.04%) and effective (90.65%). Meanwhile, for the 2017-2019 fiscal year (after the use of e-budgeting) the financial performance of the Bandung City Government shows economic criteria (83.39%), inefficient (99.48%), and quite effective (88%).
The Effect of Information Asymmetry and Business Diversification on Cost of Equity Capital
Authors: Pratiwi Nurul Intan Okci
Published: April 2021

This study aims to examine the effect of information asymmetry and business diversification on the cost of equity capital in mining companies listed in the Indonesia Stock Exchange with a sample of 14 companies for the 2017-2019 period. Data analysis used descriptive research with quantitative research methods in the form of secondary data. Information asymmetry is measured using the bid-ask spread and diversification is measured using the Herfindahl Index proxy while the cost of equity capital is measured using the Ohlson model. Hypothesis testing is carried out using multiple linear regression analysis to see how much influence information asymmetry and diversification have on the cost of equity capital. The result indicated that information asymmetry had a positive impact on the cost of equity capital and business diversification had a positive impact on the cost of equity capital.
E-Government Integrated E-Audit System : Design And Analysis in The Internal Audit Unit of The Indonesian Government (APIP)
Authors: Hidayat Deni
Published: April 2021

The Government Internal Supervisory Agency (APIP) is a work unit that has the task of carrying out internal supervision in the government environment. The development of the Electronic Based Government System (SPBE) has changed the business processes that occur in government governance from manual to digital form. The implementation of SPBE in government activities has resulted in a lot of data or documents in digital form, but on the other hand the process of implementing audit activities carried out by APIP is currently still being carried out manually, has not made much use of digital data or documents, and has not been supported by the use of an integrated audit management information system. This study aims to design an integrated electronic-based audit system model (e-Audit) with SPBE in the APIP environment. The research method used is qualitative with a case study approach in one of the Inspectorates of Non-Ministry Government Institutions, the result of this research is an integrated e-audit system model which is described in a System Context Diagram, Data Flow Diagram (DFD) and Entity Relationship Diagram (ERD).
The The Effect of Abnormal Audit Fee on Audit Quality
Authors: Ratnasari Heny Dewi
Published: April 2021

Abstract: This study aims to examine the effect between abnormal audit fee, which is the difference between actual audit fee and normal audit fee levels, on the audit quality proxied by accrual discretionary. The study was conducted on 414 samples of manufacturing companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the 2013-2018 observation period. The multiple linear regression test results show a relationship between the main variables is asymmetric, which depends on the sign of abnormal audit fees. For observations with negative abnormal audit fees or below normal audit fee levels, it’s showed that there is no significant effect between audit quality and abnormal audit fees. In fact, the findings indicate that there is a negative effect between abnormal audit fees and audit quality when tested on observations with negative abnormal audit fees or above normal audit fees levels. These results indicate that there is a dependence between the auditor and the client when the client pays a high audit fee so that it is possible to let the client manage earnings through discretionary accruals, which decreases the audit quality.
Events As Destination Image Maker: The Role of Event Type and Implications for Event Portfolio Development
Authors: Hazel Xu Yueying , Wong Ipkin Anthony , Tan Xiuchang
Published: April 2021

Destination image influences the decision-making process and conditions the after-decision-making behaviors of tourists. Events can be image maker and branding driver for destinations, and a good portfolio with diversified events benefits the destination image and is a viable form of
sustainable tourism development. This study investigates the role of event types in influencing the destination image perceptions among tourists. In particular, event types (sporting events vs. food festivals) are hypothesized to moderate the relationships between perceived event value and
destination image. Macao is chosen as the study context, where the destination marketing organization (DMO) relies much on planned events to diversify the image of the world's gaming center. The findings from a sample of 490 event tourists show that the perceived values of the two studied
events have different magnitude of effects on the destination image, which further has a significant effect on tourists' destination loyalty intention. Results of the study have implications for the strategic planning and management of event portfolio for destinations trying to leverage marketing
impacts and tourism gains from different events. The study aims to contribute to event tourism literature, especially in the areas of event leveraging and portfolio management, by providing empirical evidence on regional and local events.
SUPPLEMENTS IN A SEMIRING
Authors: Patwari Diksha , Saikia Helen K.
Published: April 2021

In this paper we define supplemented ideal of a semiring and study various characteristics of this ideal.
Peningkatan dan Pengendalian Kualitas Produk dengan Menggunakan Metode PDCA (Studi Kasus pada PT. X)
Authors: Fatah Abdul , Al-Faritsy Ari Zaqi
Published: April 2021

PT. 'X' merupakan sebuah perusahaan yang memproduksi lemari es lokal dan berorientasi ekspor. Permasalahan yang ditemukan adalah produk cacat lemari es yang di produksi pada tanggal 1 Agustus - 18 Agustus 2018 terdapat persentase cacat yang cukup tinggi sebesar 59.45% dari sampel total produksi yang dikumpulkan, sehingga produk harus diperbaiki lagi yang mengakibatkan biaya produksi menjadi tinggi. Cacat pada produksi lemari es adalah panel back penyok 15%, urethane foam bocor 68,2%, dan panel back keluar 16,8%. Metode penelitian menggunakan PDCA, tahap plan menentukan masalah dan cacat yang akan diperbaiki, tahap do menentukan usulan tindakan perbaikan yang harus dilakukan, tahap check adalah melakukan pemeriksaan sampel produksi setelah implementasi tindakan perbaikan dan tahap action melakukan evaluasi tindakan perbaikan. Berdasarkan kendali mutu menggunakan metode PDCA di PT. â€œXâ€ diperoleh tindakan korektif seperti peningkatan kesadaran operator, peningkatan standar kerja, pengaturan lingkungan produksi, pemeliharaan perbaikan mesin u-bander, dan penggantian PU foam dengan A20. Data produksi pada 19 Agustus 2018 - 31 Agustus 2018 ditemukan jumlah cacat akibat urethane foam bocor, panel back penyok, dan panel back keluar sebanyak 219 unit dengan persentase 36,50%. Â Oleh karena itu tindakan korektif yang dilakukan pada penelitian ini mampu meminimalisasi jumlah cacat sebesar 22,95%.
Re-Layout Penempatan Fasilitas Produksi dengan menggunakan Metode Systematic Layout Planning dan Metode 5 S Guna Meminimalkan Biaya Material Handling
Authors: Rengganis Esa , Mauidzoh Uyuunul
Published: April 2021

Perencanaan fasilitas memiliki pengaruh yang sangat besar pada sebuah proses produksi. Penelitian akan dimulai dari lantai produksi untuk mengamati tata letak departemen, pergerakan yang terjadi selama proses produksi sampai dengan penyimpanan produk setengah jadi dan produk jadi. CV. Jakudo Kamsa merupakan salah satu industri yang bergerak pada proses pengolahan kulit, dari bahan mentah sampai dengan produk -produk mereka. Berdasarkan pengamatan yang dilakukan di lantai produksi, CV. Jakudo Kamsa, didapatkan permasalahan setengah jadi yang menjadi input bagi perusahaan sepatu maupun tas yang menggunakan kulit sebagai bahan baku utama bagi produk bahwa peletakan peralatan produksi belum optimal sehingga aliran material yang ada kurang baik. Hal ini dapat menyebabkan ongkos material handling yang cukup besar dan terjadi kesimpangsiuran pekerja maupun bahan baku pada saat proses produksi.Dengan kondisi seperti ini, maka sering terjadi delay pada proses produksi dan otomatis hal ini mengakibatkan tenaga kerja yang menganggur.Sehingga perlu dilakukan re-layout pada pengaturan peralatan produksi agar proses produksi lebih optimal.Metode yang digunakan untuk memperbaiki layout departemen produksi adalah Metode Systematic Layout Planning dan metode 5 S. Kedua metode ini dikombinasikan untuk mengoptimalkan layout departemen produksi sehingga meminimalkan biaya material handling. SLP merupakan metode yang digunakan untuk mengatur lantai produksi berdasarkan tingkat frekuensi pergerakan dan hubungan kedekatan. Sedangkan metode 5 S merupakan alat yang paling efektif dan sederhana untuk mengatur area kerja. Tujuan dari metode 5 S adalah menciptakan lingkungan kerja yang bersih sehingga diharapkan produktivitas atau kinerja akan meningkat.Berdasarkan pengumpulan dan pengolahan data yang dilakukan pada tahap sebelumnya didapatkan hasil biaya OMH sebelum dilakukan relayout sebesar Rp. 346.190,5. Berdasarkan hasil relayout didapatkan penurunan biaya material handling. Biaya material handling yang semulaÂ  Rp. 346.190,5 menjadi Rp. 327.226,1. Setelah proses relayout dilakukan maka dilakukan analisa dan evaluasi dengan menggunakan metode 5 S. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian pada saat ini didapatkan hasil bahwa layout departemen produksi yang ada sekarang ini belum optimal. Hal ini ditunjukkan dengan tingginya ongkos material handling, yaitu sebesar Rp. 346.190,5. Kemudian dilakukan pertukaran antara departemen Pencucian, Penyamakan, dan Penghalusan. Pertukaran ketiga departemen ini Â akan menurunkan ongkos material handling sebesar Rp. 18.924,4, sehingga ongkos material handling menjadi Rp. 327.266,1.Berdasarkan hasil evaluasi dengan menggunakan metode 5 S perlu dilakukan penambahan rak peletakan perlengkapan kerja dan tools dan rak untuk meletakkan produk setengah jadi.
Analisis Keselamatan Dan Kesehatan Kerja (K3) Dengan Metode Hazard And Operability Study (HAZOP) (Studi Kasus : CV. Bina Karya Utama)
Authors: Savitri Eva Ditya Yulia , Lestariningsih Siti , Mindhayani Iva
Published: April 2021

CV. Bina Karya Utama merupakan salah satu perusahaan yang bergerak dibidang industri furniture dan kayu olahan. Perusahaan telah melakukan penerapan K3, tetapi kurangnya kesadaran pegawai dalam menggunakan APD (Alat Perlindungan Diri) dilapangan menjadi alasan penulis untuk melakukan penelitian tentang sumber bahaya apa saja yang ada, apa resiko-resiko dari sumber bahaya, dan berapa besar tingkat resiko sumber bahaya tersebut. Berdasarkan permasalahan diatas dilakukan penelitian menggunakan metode Hazard and Operability Study (HAZOP).Penelitian ini diawali dengan melakukan identifikasi kecelakaan kerja dan selanjutnya mencari sumber potensi bahaya kecelakaan kerja sehingga dapat dilakukan pencegahan kecelakaan dengan menggunakan metode Hazard and Operability Study (HAZOP). Identifikasi bahaya dengan metode HAZOP dilakukan berdasarkan pekerjaan yang dikerjakan oleh karyawan di area produksi. Titik kajian ditentukan berdasarkan semua pekerjaan yang dilakukan karyawan di masing-masing alat/stasiun. Langkah selanjutnya setelah proses identifikasi adalah penilaian pada likelihood dan consequences untuk mendapatkan risk level pada masing-masing titik kajian. Berdasarkan hasil pengamatan, diketahui terdapat resiko rendah, sedang, tinggi dan ekstrim. Penelitian dilaksanakan di CV. Bina Karya Utama pada bulan Juli 2019 - Agustus 2019. Saat pembuatan Chair Arm.Hasil dari penelitian menemukan tingkat resiko dari sumber bahaya yang ada diseluruh stasiun produksi di CV. Bina Karya Utama tergolong ekstrem 35%, tergolong tinggi 30%, tergolong sedang 30%, dan tergolong rendah 5%.Â Â
Neurological complications and COVID-19: A literature review
Authors: Pathan Aslam
Published: April 2021

Reported studies from many works of literature state that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) affects the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system leads to many neurological indications including headache, dizziness, impaired consciousness, acute cerebrovascular disease, epilepsy, hyposmia/anosmia, hypogeusia/ageusia, muscle pain, altered mental status, and Guillain- Barre syndrome.
This review article summarized the reported neurological complications in coronavirus disease 2019 patients worldwide. Healthcare workers should aware of a wide range of neurological symptoms for the early diagnosis and management of the cases.
The Capital Flow Volatility Spillover in Some Selected African Economies
Authors: Kwarah Abdullahi Murtala , Kaseeram Irrshad , Rafindadi Aliyu Sanusi
Published: April 2021

Purpose: The study conducted an empirical examination of the link between capital flows and exchange rate by examining the relative influence of FDI and FPI on the exchange rates.

Method: The study proceeded with the EGARCH model and the data sample covering the period from 1990-2016. The data were subjected to cross-country screening. The screening criteria are such that all the data that constitute capital in all sampled countries must have equal sample sizes. The measurement of capital flow in each of the sampled countries was restricted to two categories capital, namely, foreign portfolio investment (FPI) and foreign direct investment (FDI).

Results: The research establishes that the behavior of capital flow volatility spillover of the sample countries' currencies exchange rate differs, with only South Africa's and Morocco's currencies revealing some slight similarity and existence of asymmetric volatility spillover from capital flows to exchange rate. Additionally, the study discloses that capital flows spillover has a considerable effect on exchange rate volatility than harmful spillover. The study also observed that positive shocks associated with capital flow volatility affect exchange rate value in Botswana more than capital outflow. Further positive capital flow spillover impending from capital inflow has a considerable effect on exchange rate volatility than the harmful spillover impending from the capital outflow. Further, the positive capital flow spill over impending from capital inflow significantly affects exchange rate volatility more than the negative spillovers that emanate from the capital outflow. 

Implications:   This suggests that the monetary policy should consider options that can accelerate capital flow into the Moroccan economy. However, in South Africa for any given quantum of capital flow into the economy, the South African Reserve Bank must use instruments to affect stability; otherwise, the currency exchange rate could remain unstable. Thus, capital withdrawals out of the Egyptian economy will create domestic currency instability.

 

 

 

Keywords: Spill-over, Foreign Direct Investments (FDI), Portfolio Investments (PI), asymmetric, capital flow volatility, Exchange rate volatility.
Impact of COVID-19 on Ready-made Garments Workers in Bangladesh
Authors: Sharif Sherajul Mustajib
Published: April 2021

COVID-19 is an overwhelming crisis that has touched almost every sector. As the Ready-made Garments (RMG) sector is closely integrated with the global supply chain, it is important to understand the implications of COVID-19 on RMG workers as they are the most vulnerable in this situation. This article aims to explore the socio-economic impacts of the pandemic on RMG workers in Bangladesh. Particularly, it investigates the impact on health, safety and security, employment, livelihood, and social relations of the workers. The research also explores the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders in this regard. The study followed qualitative methodology. The primary data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussion, and key informant interviews. The findings revealed that COVID-19 faced detrimental consequences in terms of health, safety and security, and social relations. The workers also faced a livelihood crisis as their earnings were curtailed.
The Effects of Mitochondrial Mt4977 Deletion on Platelet Function in Ischemic Heart Disease Patients
Authors: ÖZAYDIN Ahmet , KERİMOVA Ayla , ONARAN İlhan
Published: April 2021

Objective: It is known that point mutations, duplications and deletions occur in mitochondrial DNAs (mtDNA) of different tissues of individuals. Among the deletions observed, mt4977 mutation, which is located at nucleotide positions 8470-8482 and 13447-13459 and causes the loss of 4977 base pairs, is the most common. mtDNA 4977 deletion leads to the loss of 8 genes encoding subunits of respiratory chain complexes. Consequently, the deletion could be expected to inhibit the oxidative function and reduce ATP production level. It is known that mitochondrial ATP production has an important role on platelet functions. However, there is no information about this in the literature. Since platelet activation in ischemic heart disease (IHD) has been shown to play an important role in the pathophysiology of the disease, we wanted to examine the relationship between platelet function and mtDNA 4977 deletion in ischemic heart disease.

Material and Method: Platelet functions were studied by giving ADP stimulus with the help of lumiaggregometer device to evaluate in terms of secretion and aggregation. ATP measurement was performed with the bioluminescence assay kit. mtDNA 4977 deletion was determined by the modified simultaneous quantitative polymerase chain reaction method.

Results: The frequency of mtDNA 4977 deletion and mtDNA copy number were higher in platelets of the patients compared with the healthy control group (p0.05).

Conclusion: It was observed that increased deletion in patients with IHD did not have a significant effect on

platelet dysfunction compared with healthy control subjects.
Multidrug Resistance of Uropathogens at Governmental Hospitals in the Gaza Strip/Palestine
Authors: Alkhodari Sameh A. , Elmanama Abdelraouf A.
Published: April 2021

Urinary tract infection is a public health problem worldwide. E. coli and klebsiella are among the main etiologic for UTI in Gaza Strip. The growing variations in resistance among uropathogens to antimicrobials is multifactorial and varies globally. It greatly reduces/limits or complicate treatment option.

Aims: To determine the pattern of antimicrobial resistance and multidrug resistance among uropathogens at governmental hospitals.

Methods: We analyzed the data of 11,890 urine samples processed in governmental hospitals in the Gaza Strip, Palestine during 2019. The percentage of resistance was calculated for uropathogens, and then multidrug resistance was calculated according to “CDC” definition.

Results: Of 11,890 urine samples, 2910 (24.5%) showed significant growth.  Escherichia coli was isolated most frequently (1743; 59.9%), followed by Klebsiella spp. (725; 24.9%), Pseudomonas spp. (123; 4.2%), Streptococcus spp. (98; 3.4%), Staphylococcus aureus (41; 1.4%). Microorganisms resistance was high against Ampicillin (92.4%) and Amoxicillin (91.1%), Co-Trimoxazole (68.2%), Cefalexin (64.9%), Doxycycline (61.9%), Nalidixic acid (53.6%), Cefuroxime (53.0%), Ceftriaxone (48.9%), Ceftazidime (43.1%), Ciprofloxacin (36.9%), Gentamicin (25.8%), Amikacin (3.2%). The resistance of microorganisms in males is higher than females. Multidrug resistance was detected in 37% of E. coli and 53% in Klebsiella spp.

Conclusion: Resistance is high and variable among uropathogens isolated from patients in Gaza strip. Both age and gender are risk factors in both infection and resistance pattern. The multidrug resistance percentage is growing remarkably in Gaza Strip.

Keywords: Uropathogens, Resistance, Urinary tract infection, Multidrug resistance, Gaza strip, Palestine
The Location of Young Pulsar PSR J0837–2454: Galactic Halo or Local Supernova Remnant?
Authors: Pol Nihan , Burke-Spolaor Sarah , Hurley-Walker Natasha , Blumer Harsha , Johnston Simon , Keith Michael , Keane Evan F. , Burgay Marta , Possenti Andrea , Petroff Emily , Bhat N. D. Ramesh
Published: April 2021

We present the discovery and timing of the young (age ∼28.6 kyr) pulsar PSR J0837–2454. Based on its high latitude (b = 98) and dispersion measure (DM = 143 pc cm−3), the pulsar appears to be at a z-height of >1 kpc above the Galactic plane, but near the edge of our Galaxy. This is many times the observed scale height of the canonical pulsar population, which suggests this pulsar may have been born far out of the plane. If accurate, the young age and high z-height imply that this is the first pulsar known to be born from a runaway O/B star. In follow-up imaging with the Australia Telescope Compact Array (ATCA), we detect the pulsar with a flux density S
1400 = 0.18 ± 0.05 mJy. We do not detect an obvious supernova remnant around the pulsar in our ATCA data, but we detect a colocated, low-surface-brightness region of ∼15 extent in archival Galactic and Extragalactic All-sky MWA Survey data. We also detect colocated Hα emission from the Southern Hα Sky Survey Atlas. Distance estimates based on these two detections come out to ∼0.9 kpc and ∼0.2 kpc, respectively, both of which are much smaller than the distance predicted by the NE2001 model (6.3 kpc) and YMW model (>25 kpc) and place the pulsar much closer to the plane of the Galaxy. If the pulsar/remnant association holds, this result also highlights the inherent difficulty in the classification of transients as “Galactic” (pulsar) or “extragalactic” (fast radio burst) toward the Galactic anticenter based solely on the modeled Galactic electron contribution to a detection.
Enhanced X-Ray Emission from the Most Radio-powerful Quasar in the Universe’s First Billion Years
Authors: Connor Thomas , Bañados Eduardo , Stern Daniel , Carilli Chris , Fabian Andrew , Momjian Emmanuel , Rojas-Ruiz Sofía , Decarli Roberto , Farina Emanuele Paolo , Mazzucchelli Chiara , Earnshaw Hannah P.
Published: April 2021

We present deep (265 ks) Chandra X-ray observations of PSO J352.4034−15.3373, a quasar at z = 5.831 that, with a radio-to-optical flux ratio of R > 1000, is one of the radio-loudest quasars in the early universe and is the only quasar with observed extended radio jets of kiloparsec scale at z ≳ 6. Modeling the X-ray spectrum of the quasar with a power law, we find a best fit of

Γ
=

1.99

−
0.28

+
0.29

, leading to an X-ray luminosity of

L

2
–
10

=

1.26

−
0.33

+
0.45

×

10

45

erg

s

−
1

and an X-ray to UV brightness ratio of α
OX = −1.45 ± −0.11. We identify a diffuse structure 50 kpc (∼8″) to the NW of the quasar along the jet axis that corresponds to a 3σ enhancement in the angular density of emission and can be ruled out as a background fluctuation with a probability of P = 0.9985. While with few detected photons the spectral fit of the structure is uncertain, we find that it has a luminosity of L
2–10 ∼ 1044 erg s−1. These observations therefore potentially represent the most distant quasar jet yet seen in X-rays. We find no evidence for excess X-ray emission where the previously reported radio jets are seen (which have an overall linear extent of 0.″28), and a bright X-ray point source located along the jet axis to the SE is revealed by optical and NIR imaging to not be associated with the quasar.
Two-fluid Modeling of Acoustic Wave Propagation in Gravitationally Stratified Isothermal Media
Authors: Zhang Fan , Poedts Stefaan , Lani Andrea , Kuźma Błażej , Murawski Kris
Published: April 2021

To study acoustic wave propagation and the corresponding energy deposition in partially ionized plasmas, we use a two-fluid computational model that treats neutrals and charged particles (electrons and ions) as two separate fluids. This two-fluid model takes into account the ion–neutral collisions, ionization, and recombination, allowing us to investigate both the collisional and reactive interactions between uncoupled ions and neutrals in the plasmas. In the present numerical simulations, the initial density is specified to reach hydrostatic equilibrium, and as a comparison, chemical equilibrium is also taken into account to provide a density profile that differs from typical hydrostatic equilibrium profiles. External velocity drivers are then imposed to generate monochromatic acoustic waves. As is well known, the upward propagating acoustic waves steepen in gravitationally stratified plasmas due to the exponentially decreasing density, and they heat the plasmas in the nonlinear regimes where kinetic energy is dissipated by shock waves and collisional interactions. In particular, the lower ionization fraction resulting from the present initial chemical equilibrium significantly enhances the heating efficiency. Moreover, the ionization process absorbs a significant amount of energy, and the decoupling between ions and neutrals is also enhanced while considering ionization and recombination. Therefore, simulations without considering ionization and recombination may overestimate the overall heating effects but also underestimate the energy dissipation. The results also suggest that a more accurate ionization and recombination model could be essential for improving the modeling of partially ionized plasmas.
The Far Ultraviolet M-dwarf Evolution Survey. I. The Rotational Evolution of High-energy Emissions*
Authors: Pineda J. Sebastian , Youngblood Allison , France Kevin
Published: April 2021

M-dwarf stars are prime targets for exoplanet searches because of their close proximity and favorable properties for both planet detection and characterization. However, the potential habitability and atmospheric characterization of these exoplanetary systems depends critically on the history of high-energy stellar radiation from X-rays to NUV, which drive atmospheric mass loss and photochemistry in the planetary atmospheres. With the Far Ultraviolet M-dwarf Evolution Survey, we have assessed the evolution of the FUV radiation, specifically eight prominent emission lines, including Lyα, of M-dwarf stars with stellar rotation period and age. We demonstrate tight power-law correlations between the spectroscopic FUV features, and measure the intrinsic scatter of the quiescent FUV emissions. The luminosity evolution with rotation of these spectroscopic features is well-described by a broken power law, saturated for fast rotators, and decays with increasing Rossby number, with a typical power-law slope of −2, although likely shallower for Lyα. Our regression fits enable FUV emission-line luminosity estimates relative to bolometric from known rotation periods to within ∼0.3 dex, across eight distinct UV emission lines, with possible trends in the fit parameters as a function of source layer in the stellar atmosphere. Our detailed analysis of the UV luminosity evolution with age further shows that habitable-zone planets orbiting lower-mass stars experience much greater high-energy radiative exposure relative the same planets orbiting more massive hosts. Around early- to mid-M dwarfs, these exoplanets, at field ages, accumulate up to 10–20× more EUV energy, relative to modern Earth. Moreover, the bulk of this UV exposure likely takes place within the first Gyr of the stellar lifetime.
FUMES. II. Lyα Reconstructions of Young, Active M Dwarfs
Authors: Youngblood Allison , Pineda J. Sebastian , France Kevin
Published: April 2021

The H i Lyα (1215.67 Å) emission line dominates the far-UV spectra of M dwarf stars, but strong absorption from neutral hydrogen in the interstellar medium makes observing Lyα challenging even for the closest stars. As part of the Far-Ultraviolet M-dwarf Evolution Survey, the Hubble Space Telescope has observed 10 early-to-mid M dwarfs with ages ranging from ∼24 Myr to several Gyr in order to evaluate how the incident UV radiation evolves through the lifetime of exoplanetary systems. We reconstruct the intrinsic Lyα profiles from STIS G140L and E140M spectra, and achieve reconstructed fluxes with 1σ uncertainties ranging from 5% to a factor of two for the low-resolution spectra (G140L) and 3%–20% for the high-resolution spectra (E140M). We observe broad, 500–1000 km s−1 wings of the Lyα line profile, and analyze how the line width depends on stellar properties. We find that stellar effective temperature and surface gravity are the dominant factors influencing the line width with little impact from the star’s magnetic activity level, and that the surface flux density of the Lyα wings may be used to estimate the chromospheric electron density. The Lyα reconstructions on the G140L spectra are the first attempted on λ/Δλ ∼ 1000 data. We find that the reconstruction precision is not correlated with the signal-to-noise ratio of the observation—rather, it depends on the intrinsic broadness of the stellar Lyα line. Young, low-gravity stars have the broadest lines and therefore provide more information at low spectral resolution to the fit to break degeneracies among model parameters.
One–Two Quench: A Double Minor Merger Scenario
Authors: Sanchez N. Nicole , Tremmel Michael , Werk Jessica K. , Pontzen Andrew , Christensen Charlotte , Quinn Thomas , Loebman Sarah , Cruz Akaxia
Published: April 2021

Using the N-body+Smoothed particle hydrodynamics code, ChaNGa, we identify two merger-driven processes—disk disruption and supermassive black hole (SMBH) feedback—which work together to quench L
* galaxies for over 7 Gyr. Specifically, we examine the cessation of star formation in a simulated Milky Way (MW) analog, driven by an interaction with two minor satellites. Both interactions occur within ∼100 Myr of each other, and the satellites both have masses 5–20 times smaller than that of their MW-like host galaxy. Using the genetic modification process of Roth et al., we generate a set of four zoom-in, MW-mass galaxies all of which exhibit unique star formation histories due to small changes to their assembly histories. In two of these four cases, the galaxy is quenched by z = 1. Because these are controlled modifications, we are able to isolate the effects of two closely spaced minor merger events, the relative timing of which determines whether the MW-mass main galaxy quenches. This one–two punch works to: (1) fuel the SMBH at its peak accretion rate and (2) disrupt the cold, gaseous disk of the host galaxy. The end result is that feedback from the SMBH thoroughly and abruptly ends the star formation of the galaxy by z ≈ 1. We search for and find a similar quenching event in Romulus25, a hydrodynamical (25 Mpc)3 volume simulation, demonstrating that the mechanism is common enough to occur even in a small sample of MW-mass quenched galaxies at z = 0.
Biased Tracer Reconstruction with Halo Mass Information
Authors: Liu Yu , Yu Yu , Li Baojiu
Published: April 2021

Plenty of crucial information about our universe is encoded in the cosmic large-scale structure (LSS). However, extractions of this information are usually hindered by the nonlinearities of the LSS, which can be largely alleviated by various techniques known as reconstruction. In realistic applications, the efficiencies of these methods are always degraded by many limiting factors, a quite important one being the shot noise induced by the finite number density of biased matter tracers (i.e., luminous galaxies or dark matter halos) in observations. In this work, we explore the gains of biased tracer reconstruction achieved from halo mass information, which can suppress the shot-noise component and dramatically improves the cross-correlation between tracer field and dark matter. To this end, we first closely study the clustering biases and the stochasticity properties of halo fields with various number densities under different weighting schemes, i.e., the uniform, mass, and optimal weightings. Then, we apply the biased tracer reconstruction method to these different weighted halo fields and investigate how linear bias and observational mass scatter affect the reconstruction performance. Our results demonstrate that halo masses are critical information for significantly improving the performance of biased tracer reconstruction, indicating great application potential for substantially promoting the precision of cosmological measurements (especially for baryon acoustic oscillations) in ambitious ongoing and future galaxy surveys.
Broadening Astronomy Education through Professional Development
Authors: Fies C. , Packham C. , Fuller L. , Drozdov D. , Schlegel E. , Bayless A. , Roming P.
Published: April 2021

We report on the processes and findings related to the iterative design of the San Antonio Teacher Training Astronomy Academy (SATTAA). In particular, we show how the initial iteration in 2018, limited to only future (or preservice) secondary school STEM teachers, broadened to include current (or in-service) secondary school teachers in 2019, and then added primary school pre- and in-service teachers in 2020. The participants of all three years are now part of a community of practice that continues to engage in astronomy education in varied ways.
3D Radiative Transfer Simulations of the Atmospheric Environment of the Carbon-rich AGB Star RU Vir
Authors: Rau Gioia
Published: April 2021

We report the preliminary near- and mid-infrared 3D radiative transfer simulations of the carbon-rich AGB star RU Vir using the 3D radiative transfer code RADMC-3D. We found that the inclusion of molecular and dust species reproduces the extended atmosphere of this star well. This study is the beginning of an in-progress effort toward a more systematic 3D radiative transfer modeling of RU Vir’s extended atmosphere, and other AGB stars. These efforts aim at constraining the stars’ stellar parameters, and as preparatory work for the first multi-wavelength imaging of carbon-rich AGB stars with the newest VLTI/MATISSE interferometric instrument.
Tafazzin Modulates Allergen-Induced Mast Cell Inflammatory Mediator Secretion
Authors: Maguire Aindriu R R , Crozier Robert W E , Hunter Katie D , Claypool Steven M , Fajardo Val A , LeBlanc Paul J , MacNeil Adam J
Published: April 2021

Allergic inflammatory diseases are a steadily growing health concern. Mast cells, a driving force behind allergic pathologies, modulate metabolic pathways to carry out various functions following IgE-FcεRI–mediated activation. Tafazzin (TAZ) is a cardiolipin transacylase that functions to remodel, and thereby mature, cardiolipin, which is important for efficient energy production through oxidative phosphorylation. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the contribution of TAZ in IgE-mediated mast cell activation. Fetal liver-derived mast cells (FLMCs) were differentiated from mice with a doxycycline (dox)-inducible TAZ short hairpin RNA (shRNA) cassette (TAZ shRNA+/+) and littermate wild-types (WTs). TAZ knockdown in FLMCs following dox treatment was confirmed by Western blotting (99.1% by day 5), whereas flow cytometry confirmed FLMC phenotype (c-kit+ FcεRI+) and retention of receptor expression post-dox. Five-day dox-treated WT and TAZ shRNA+/+ FLMCs were activated via allergen-bound IgE cross-linking of FcεRI under stem cell factor potentiation. With dox, and in response to allergen, TAZ shRNA+/+ FLMCs displayed a 25% reduction in oxygen consumption and a significant 31% reduction in mast cell degranulation compared with dox-treated WT FLMCs. Secretion of TNF, CCL1, and CCL2 were significantly reduced, with CCL9 also impaired. Notably, gene expression was not impaired for any inflammatory mediator measured. Functionally, this suggests that TAZ is a contributor to mast cell degranulation and inflammatory mediator secretion. Given unimpacted induced gene expression for mediators measured, we propose that TAZ reduction impairs mast cell exocytosis mechanisms. We thus identify a potential new contributor to immunometabolism that enhances our understanding of mast cell signaling metabolic pathway interactions during allergic inflammation.
Proportion of subjects remaining abstinent following alcohol de-addiction treatment and factors associated with abstinence - A 3 months prospective cohort study
Authors: Nair Ariya , Arathil Praveen , Narayanan Dinesan
Published: April 2021

Aims:

The aim is to study prevalence of abstinence rates for 3 months follow-up in individuals of alcohol dependence undergoing de-addiction treatment. Also to assess for possible co-relation between sociodemographic, clinical, personality, cognitive functioning and laboratory variables of relapsed and abstinent individuals.

Subjects and Methods:

Eighty-six individuals who were admitted for alcohol deaddiction treatment were taken for the study after taking consent. Sociodemographic and clinical variables were assessed using a pro forma. The Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview was administered to rule out other disorders. Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment of Alcohol, revised scale to assess the severity of withdrawal. Personality was assessed using 16PF. The Tower of London (ToL) test was used to assess executive function. Individuals were followed up after discharge till 3 months from the admission date to assess for the maintenance of abstinence.

Results:

Out of 86 individuals, only 24 individuals maintained abstinence at 3 months. About 72.08% of those who had previous deaddiction treatment did not maintain abstinence or were lost to follow-up. Duration of hospitalization was significantly more in abstinent individuals (15.63 ± 6.31, P = 0.001). On 16PF individuals who did not maintain abstinence had higher perfectionism scores (5.97 ± 1.9, P = 0.027) similarly on the ToL test they had lower scores on the total number of problems solved on the minimum number of moves (7.02 ± 1.76, P = 0.001).

Conclusion:

There is the low rate of abstinence among individuals having undergone deaddiction treatment at the end of 3 months. Modifying treatment for individuals who have past relapses, personality disturbances, and avoiding early discharge may help in increasing the abstinence rate.
Defeat and entrapment in the pathogenesis of suicidal behavior
Authors: Nukala Srikrishna , Singisetti Srinivas , Vinnakota Archana , Chilikuri Shvetha , Garapati Abhilash , Sanapala Vidya , Nambaru Laxman
Published: April 2021

Introduction:

Human behavior is very complex and driven by different motivations. At times, we find a deviant escape behavior in some situations, characterized by streaks of self-destruction or “suicidal behavior.” Defeat and entrapment have been hypothesized as central to this behavior.

Aim:

We aimed to study the relationship between defeat, entrapment, suicidal ideation, and suicidal attempt.

Materials and Methods:

This study was a cross-sectional study of fifty patients who attempted suicide and survived the attempt. When medically fit for psychological assessment, they were approached in a person in the hospital psychiatric ward. These patients were subjected to a detailed psychiatric interview, and any psychiatric illness in the patients was diagnosed using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders V criteria. They were assessed on the defeat and entrapment scales by Gilbert and Allan. The Modified Scale for Suicidal Ideation by Ivan W. Miller was used to determine the presence or absence of suicidal ideation and severity of suicidal ideation.

Results:

The presence of a current depressive disorder diagnosis and planning of attempt had a significant association with higher scores on internal entrapment, total entrapment, defeat, and suicidal ideation scales. The scores on defeat, internal entrapment, total entrapment, and suicidal ideation scales correlated positively and highly significantly.

Conclusion:

Entrapment and defeat are identified as important in the pathogenesis of depression and self-harm. Arrested escape and flight appear as motivation for suicidal behavior.
A cross-sectional study of psychological distress in patients hospitalized for COVID-19
Authors: Pingali Srilakshmi , Joopaka Ajay Kumar , Telkapalli Pradeep Sharma , Umashankar Molanguri
Published: April 2021

Introduction:

The novel coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) which started in China has now spread across the world. Many measures to contain the pandemic are being employed like hospitalization of patients tested positive, quarantine of contacts, and social distancing. The consequent social isolation and the uncertainty of the disease has led to psychological distress.

Aims and Objectives:

The aim was to study the psychological distress and its associated factors in patients hospitalized for COVID-19.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was done in a designated COVID center where patients tested positive were admitted from all over the state. A total of 222 hospitalized COVID-19 patients were screened using the Patient Health Questionnaire-4 and those who screened positive had their diagnosis confirmed by using the International Classification of Disease 10 criteria.

Results:

A total of 222 patients were screened of which 22.1% showed distress, 12.6% showed mild distress, and 9.5% moderate distress. Depression criteria were met by 5.5% and 3.2% had generalized anxiety disorder. Factors significantly associated with distress were deaths in the family and duration of hospitalization, whereas family members affected with COVID-19 were inversely related to psychological distress.

Conclusion:

Having a number of family members affected and simultaneously admitted in the same hospital seems to have acted as a buffer against psychological distress. However, deaths in the family due to COVID-19 and long duration of hospitalization were found to be factors associated with psychological distress. Efforts should be made to treat not only the physical health but also address the psychological distress in patients hospitalized for COVID-19.
Prevalence and pattern of dry eye symptoms among “okada” riders in Southwest Nigeria using the ocular surface disease index
Authors: Adenekan Adetunji Olusesan , Ilo Olubanke Theodora , Alabi Adegboyega Sunday , Aribaba Olufisayo Temitayo , Akinsola Folasade Bolanle
Published: April 2021

Background:

Dry eye is a common disorder of the tear film that results in epithelial damage and the disruption of normal homeostasis at the ocular surface. It is a common ocular condition that is often missed in clinical diagnosis. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence and pattern of dry eye symptoms using the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) among commercial motorcyclists and also identify factors that may be responsible for dry eye symptoms in this population.

Methods:

This was a descriptive, cross-sectional, population-based study. Using a multistage random sampling technique, 422 commercial motorcyclists were surveyed from 10 units of registered commercial motorcyclists. Interviewer-administered OSDI questionnaires (face to face) were used, and visual acuity (VA) measurement was done.

Results:

The prevalence of dry eye symptoms in this study was 83.42%. Using the OSDI, the pattern of dry eye symptoms in this study showed that 21.56% had mild dry eye, 54% had moderate dry eye, and 7.82% had severe dry eye. Riders aged >50 years (86.90%), P < 0.05, 95% confidence interval: 0.012–0.021; nonuse of protective spectacles (87.46%), P < 0.05, 95% confidence interval: −0.235–−0.087; and use of helmets with face shields while riding (92.89%), P < 0.05, 95% confidence interval: −0.160–−0.062, were risk factors for dry eye symptoms. All respondents who had diabetes mellitus (P < 0.05, 95% confidence interval: 0.084–0.429) and a larger proportion (84.86%) of those not on topical medications (P < 0.05, 95% confidence interval: −0.365–−0.066) had dry eye. Visual impairment (VA <6/18) was observed in three respondents, with uncorrected refractive errors as the cause. Multivariate analysis showed that respondents aged <50 years, nonuse of protective spectacles, use of crash helmets with face shield, medical conditions, particularly diabetes mellitus, and nonuse of topical medications were significantly associated with dry eye symptoms.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of dry eye symptoms was high, and majority had moderate dry eyes based on OSDI grading. Furthermore, public health awareness program should be commenced to educate motorcyclists on the importance of using protective goggles in preventing dry eye disease.
Surrogate markers and predictors of insulin resistance in Nigeria patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Odeniyi Ifedayo Adeola , Odife Ukamaka Beatrice , Fasanmade Olufemi Adetola , Ohwovoriole Augustine Efedaye
Published: April 2021

Background:

This study set out to identify and compare surrogate markers of insulin resistance (IR) in males and females and compare the prevalence of IR using different surrogate markers.

Methods:

The study was an analytical cross-sectional hospital-based study among Nigerians with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A total of 234 (131 T2DM and 103 healthy) persons were invited to participate in the study. One hundred and ninety-nine persons completed the study. The following anthropometric measurements were taken (height [m], weight [kg], waist circumference [cm], and hip circumference [cm]). IR score (IRS) was derived using these six measurements: fasting basal insulin, fasting C-peptide, glucose-insulin ratio, quantitative insulin sensitivity check index, homeostasis model assessment (HOMA-IR), HOMA-c-peptide.

Results:

Using an IRS of >11 as criteria for IR, 52 (41.6%) of T2DM, and 21 (28.4%) of the control group were found to have IR. Forty-five percent of the DM females and 36.4% of DM males had IR, respectively, whereas 31.8% of the control females and 23.3% of control males had IR, respectively. Visceral Adiposity Index (VAI) had the best predictive value with the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (0.648).

Conclusion:

The prevalence of IR is nonsignificantly higher in females than males. VAI is the best surrogate marker to predict the presence of IR among the male study participants, while waist circumference is the best surrogate marker to predict the presence of IR among the female study participants.
Roles and challenges of clinical microbiology laboratories in antimicrobial stewardship in resource-limited countries
Authors: Tahir Mohammed Ibrahim , Ahmad Abdurrahman El-Fulaty , Ige Temidayo Oluwafemi , Abdullahi Idris Nasir , Usman Yahaya , Suleiman Ahmed Babangida
Published: April 2021

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global health challenge, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Programs that appropriate antibiotic use such as antimicrobial stewardship, is a global health strategy adopted by the World Health Organization to contain threats posed by AMR. Unfortunately, many LMICs are at best left behind in the process of developing antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASP). We highlighted the roles of the clinical microbiology laboratory in antimicrobial stewardship and challenges associated with the program in LMICs. We further suggested ways forward in the adoption and implementation of existing programs in resource-limited settings. There is generally nonexistent or at best, fewer ASP in the LMICs. More efforts need to be channeled toward fighting the AMR scourge, primarily by adopting ASP while utilizing the little resources available.