bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Этнический конфликт и форма правления: современные дискуссии
Authors: Зазнаев Олег
Published: January 2021

Этнические конфликты представляют опасность для стабильности и целостности любого государства. Для их предупреждения и урегулирования предпринимаются институциональные изменения, в частности, касающиеся формы политико-территориального устройства, избирательной системы и формы правления. Цель статьи – дать критический обзор современных дискуссий о взаимосвязи между этническими конфликтами и формами правления. Автор концентрирует внимание на двух узловых проблемах: во-первых, это влияние этнического на форму правления; во-вторых, влияние формы правления на этнический конфликт. В статье утверждается, что выбор формы правления в условиях разделенного общества определяется концептуальным подходом. Сторонники консоциативного подхода полагают, что парламентская система в силу ее коллегиального характера – желаемый дизайн власти в полиэтническом обществе. Сторонники центростремительного подхода ратуют за президентскую систему, указывая в качестве ее преимуществ стремление президента выступить в качестве института, обеспечивающего групповое согласие и примирение. Сторонники разделительного подхода также считают лучшей для полиэтнических обществ президентскую систему, поскольку она в большей степени отвечает критерию разделения властей и их взаимного сдерживания. Одна из актуальных, но слабо изученных исследовательских проблем заключается в выяснении того, какую роль в урегулировании этнических конфликтов играют президентская, парламентская и полупрезидентская системы. В статье доказывается, что влияние формы правления на проявления этнического фактора в политике неоднозначно. Автор приводит аргументы в пользу того, что президентская система снижает риск этнических конфликтов и благоприятствует этническому миру и согласию, но при этом сокращает возможности для представительства этнических групп. Напротив, парламентская система создает больше возможностей для политического представительства этнических групп, но при такой форме правления возрастают риски этнических конфликтов. Форма правления сама по себе не является их причиной, эти конфликты развиваются в конкретных исторических, социальных и культурных условиях. Но автор показывает преимущества и недостатки разных форм правления в деле политического регулирования этнических противоречий.
Отражение внешней политики КНР в образах настоящего и будущего в массовом сознании китайцев: психографический метод
Authors: Токарев Алексей , Приходченко Алексей , Маргоев Адлан , Целещев Алексей
Published: January 2021

Статья одной из первых в российском китаеведении применяет методы психографического анализа при изучении китайского общества. В работе рассмотрено восприятие двух образов Китая – современного и будущего – в сознании граждан КНР. В ходе полевого исследования в Китае создана база из 189 рисунков, среди которых выделено 785 образов. Эти образы были распределены по 14 контекстам (“природа”, “война”, “политика”, “культура” и др.). Во время сбора рисунков респонденты дополнительно опрашивались авторами вербальным способом для более глубокого понимания рисунков и адекватного выделения образов. Исследование показало высокие ожидания среди граждан КНР от будущего уровня жизни, веру в разрешимость экологической проблемы и опасения по поводу старения населения Китая. В образах будущего превалируют технологии и потребление. Вопреки ожиданиям авторов, образы, напрямую ассоциирующиеся с социализмом или коммунизмом, в рисунках граждан КНР практически отсутствовали. Особое внимание в исследовании уделено образу Китая на внешнеполитической арене и роли российско-китайских отношений. В восприятии граждан КНР Китай, обладая огромным потенциалом и превосходством над многими странами, является мирным государством. Россия не играет значимой роли, но отмечается как важный геополитический игрок и стратегический партнер, а не союзник Китая. Исследование выявило расхождение между рисунками, касающимися роли Китая в мире, и их объяснениями. Респонденты изображали Китай больше и мощнее других стран, однако вербально отрицали тезис о том, что Китай стремится стать “номером один”. То же можно сказать и про образ России как партнера: вербально респонденты отмечали важность отношений двух стран, при этом на большинстве рисунков Россия была изображена примерно так же, как и другие соседи Китая.
Devasa Çok Oyunculu Çevrimiçi Oyunlarda Ürün Yerleştirme: Bir İçerik Analizi
Authors: KARAÇOR Süleyman , ÖZTÜRK Muammer
Published: January 2021

Teknolojinin sürekli gelişmesinin sonucu olarak yeni reklam alanlarının da ortaya çıktığı görülmektedir. İlk yıllarında sinemada ortaya çıkan ürün yerleştirme, televizyon dizileri, müzik klipleri ve yarışma programları, radyo yayınları ve kitap dergi gibi basılı yayınlarla sınırlı olan ürün yerleştirme uygulamaları günümüzde sosyal ağ sitelerinde yeni medyanın tamamında, internet tabanlı oyunlar ve akıllı telefon uygulamalarında yerini almıştır. Bunların yanı sıra dinamik ve popüler bir alan olan çevrimiçi oyunlarda ürün yerleştirmede aktif olarak kullanılmaktadır. Dijital oyun dünyası geniş çapta hedef kitleye hitap ettiği için her yaş düzeyine uygun oyunlar bulunmaktadır. Çevrimiçi sistemler aracılığıyla üyelikle katılmaya imkan veren bu dijital oyunlar hedef kitleyi belirlemede kolaylık sağlamalarıyla markaları başarıya ulaştırdığı bilinmektedir. Piyasada bir çok farklı temada oyun yer alırken bu oyunların konusuna uygun ürünün yerleştirilmesi oyuncular tarafından fark edilmesi daha kolay hale geleceğinden bu konuya dikkat edilmesi gerekmektedir. Bu araştırmada ilk Türk yapımı ve ücretsiz olan devasa çok oyunculu çevrimiçi oynanan ZULA’da yerleştirilmiş ürünler içerik analizi yöntemiyle ele alınmıştır. Araştırmada edinilen bulgulara göre oyun içerisinde, gıda, otomotiv, teknoloji başta olmak üzere farklı sektörlerden ürün ve hizmet veren markaların ürün yerleştirmeleri tespit edilmiştir.
Value of endometrial aspiration cytology in assessing the endometrial status in symptomatic peri and postmenopausal women and its histological correlation with fractional curettage
Authors: Vennila M. , . Thangalakshmi
Published: January 2021

Background: Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is associated with a wide variety of endometrium. Endometrial interpretation is valuable not only to find the etiology of AUB but also to rule out any organic cause for abnormal uterine bleeding. Fractional curettage is one of the most reliable and commonly performed diagnostic techniques used in the investigation of AUB. To evaluate the efficacy of endometrial aspiration cytology in the diagnosis of abnormal uterine bleeding by correlating it with histopathology.Methods: This comparative study to be conducted in100 patients attending antenatal clinic at Department of OBG, Tirunelveli Government medical college hospital from January 2018– July 2019. (17) months. Specific investigations like abdominal ultrasonography, thyroid profile, platelet count, bleeding time, clotting time, prothrombin time, etc were done whenever required. Informed consent was taken from all the study patients. Prior to Fractional curettage, endometrial aspiration was done using plastic disposable pipelines of 3 mm diameter.Results: The sensitivity of the cytology in detecting carcinoma of the endometrium was 83.3%. The specificity of cytology is 100%. Hence the test is highly specific in diagnosis. The positive predictive value is also 100% and the negative predictive value is 99%.Conclusions: It can also detect a few of the endometrial pathologies like endometrial hyperplasia, atrophy, and atypia. It is office Procedure. reduction in associated surgical risks, expense, post-operative pain, and need for operative anesthesia as seen in fractional curettage.
A tailored protocol in management of penetrating neck injuries: experience at a level 1 trauma centre
Authors: Elshaer Ahmed M. , Elwan Hussein O. , Mansour Doaa A.
Published: January 2021

Background: The management of penetrating neck injuries (PNIs) evolved markedly over last year’s towards more conservative approaches. Recent improvements in imaging modalities as multi-detector CT-angiography (MDCT-A) produced a paradigmatic shift towards 'no-zone' approach. In this study, we adopted a tailored protocol to deal with such injuries with less dependency on zone classification.Methods: This prospective study included patients with PNIs from February 2012 to January 2014. Unstable patients and patients with hard signs in zone-II were managed by immediate exploration. Patients with hard signs in zones-I and III had MDCT-A to check feasibility of endovascular intervention. However, all patients with soft signs and asymptomatic patients underwent MDCT-A regardless the zone affected to determine the need for therapeutic intervention. Complementary investigations were added in some cases with equivocal MDCT-A results.Results: Our study included 85 patients. Majority were males (94%; n=80) with mean age 27±4. Stabs were the main causative injury (51%; n=43). 63 (74%) patients were stable; with majority (64%; n=40/63) were symptomatic (18 presented with hard signs and 22 presented with soft signs). 53 (62%) patients had MDCT-A with sensitivity, specificity of 77%, 97% respectively and significant p value <0.05. After applying this protocol, we avoided 37% (31/85) non-therapeutic neck exploration, with only 4 (7.4%) negative cases on exploration. We experienced no missed injuries in the conservative group, yet 2 (3.7%) missed nerve injuries were encountered in intervention group.Conclusions: Zones-classification is losing popularity nowadays and shouldn't be the cornerstone of the new management protocols in PNIs. This selective tailored approach can be effectively used in management of PNIs. It avoids missed injuries and unnecessary explorations significantly.
Caffeine dependence among medical interns of a tertiary teaching hospital
Authors: Rajaseharan Divya , Shanu J. E. Jeffin , Thulasiraman Shrinithi
Published: January 2021

Background: Consumption of caffeine in adequate quantities has no adverse effects, but prolonged consumption makes it addictive. Medical students especially Interns due to their long working hours often indulge in excessive caffeine consumption. Objectives were to assess the knowledge of caffeine addiction among the medical interns, to assess the pattern of caffeine dependence among them and to calculate the caffeine dependence among them.  Methods: It is a cross sectional descriptive study conducted among 124 medical interns of Trichy SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre using a pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire.Results: High level of knowledge was found in 47 (37.90%) participants, moderate level in 34 (27.41%) participants and low level of knowledge was found in 47 (34.67%) participants. The most preferred beverage was coffee 70 (56.45%) persons and second was tea 32 (25.80%). Majority of the study population 110 (88.7%) started consuming caffeinated products only after 5 years of age. Head ache 51 (41.12%) and exam durations 50 (40.32%) were common occasions of high caffeine intake. Among the study population, major group had either no 99 (79.83%) or just thirst 10 (8.06%) as withdrawal symptoms. Only 19.35% of them had caffeine dependence.  Conclusions: Though the dependence level is low, the magnitude of the problem is big and self-awareness of this dreadful habit is necessary. Thus, prompt recognition of symptoms of dependence, tolerance and intoxication is necessary to avoid them falling a prey to this habit in the future.
Study of Water Transportation Development Prospects Along Mamberamo River
Authors: Kartikasari Dewi
Published: January 2021

The Mamberamo River with a flow length of 670 meters divides into 2 administrative areas of the Mamberamo Regency, and passes through 7 of the 8 Districts. This caused it to become the main transportation route for the 20 villages located along the river. Mamberamo River has a Groove Depth Range between 10 S/D 40 Meters, and Varied Flow Width of 50 to 600 Meters The maximum current speed reaches> 1.2 m/s, with a maximum possible speed of 1.31 m/s. The existing community activities are very dependent on boats passing by on the river, representing the only mode of transportation available. The aim of this study is to consider the development of a river transportation network along the Mamberamo River which is integrated with the Regional Spatial Plan. This study uses a technical approach to consider the problems of transportation mode needs, the assessment of marine conditions, the population’s socio-economic factors, the level of accessibility and demand, and other supporting factors. This study aims to identify the trends in demand and the availability of sea transportation services, and formulate various indicators of development and development trends based on supply and demand analysis, service levels and shipping service scale (local, regional, international). The results of this study are in the form of policy strategies.
Keywords: Transportation, River, Water
Potential for Transport in Asia Pacific Region
Authors: Lirn Taih-Cherng , Ariyana Ade Riusma
Published: January 2021

Currently, the movement of goods between islands is mostly carried out using containers. This is because containers are more efficient and effective, and provide a guarantee of safety for the goods being transported. This advantage needs to be fostered with a planned transportation system to facilitate further efficiencies. The positive effects of this would include shippers receiving lower tariffs, and shipping lines getting guaranteed availability of goods. Tarakan Port, currently under the management of PT Pelindo IV, continues to improve as a port for cargo consolidation, especially in dealing with the Asia Pacific region. This study evaluates the improvement already displayed by the port administrators, collecting data through observations, opinions, and documentation which is then analyzed using a quantitative approach using the IPA (Importance Performance Analysis) method. The results are juxtaposed with the development of port operational performance data to see the conditions expected for the port to be able to provide services efficiently and effectively. The results of the analysis and evaluation show that there are still gaps that need to be corrected, especially in the aspects of facilities, infrastructure and human resources. Addressing these issues will increase the regional competitivity of the port and reduce logistics costs.
Keywords: Cargo Consolidation, Competition, Ports
The Importance of Transportation in Knitting Indonesia’s Diverse Communities Together
Authors: Mantoro Budi
Published: January 2021

Transportation is defined as the activity of moving passengers and goods from one place to another. Transportation plays an important role in the development of urban infrastructure and especially its human resources. Transportation is a major component in the system of life, the system of government, and the social system. The socio-demographic conditions of a region have an influence on transportation performance in the region. The level of population density will have a significant effect on the ability of transportation to serve community needs. A good and ideal interaction between transportation components (passengers, goods, facilities and infrastructure) forms a comprehensive transportation system, efficient and effective. The important role of transportation is of course balanced with the active participation of the parties involved in it. This study undertakes qualitative research to assess the valuable role played by transportation within the country.
Keywords: Transportation, Role, Diversity
The Traffic Ethics in Land Transportation
Authors: Sugiharto Rudy
Published: January 2021

Transportation is vitally important to connect and provision human societies. Almost all activities that people carry out on a daily basis are related to the use of transportation structures. This makes it easy for people to move places or goods to a specific destination. Study employs qualitative research to consider the importance of overland transport in the construction and maintenance of human societies.
Keywords: Socialization, Togetherness, Land transportation
Handling Transportation Accidents caused by Human Error
Authors: Priyono Broto
Published: January 2021

Human error is often stated as the main factor causing transportation accidents. For the general public, news about transportation accidents with human errors as the cause is often interpreted as human error by system operators such as machinists, pilots, ship captains, and other professionals. This perception is not correct. There are many factors that can directly or indirectly encourage an operator to take inappropriate actions. Error itself is generally defined as failure to perform the ‘correct’ and desired action in a given situation. In addition, an error can be defined as such when the final action or result may not be that which was intended. This study employs qualitative research methods to evaluate the best methods of dealing with transportation accidents caused by human error.
Keywords: Accidents, Human error, Others Factor
Human Resources Education in the Transportation Sector
Authors: Nopriyanto Windi
Published: January 2021

The Human Resources Development Agency (BPSDMP), originally called the Education and Training Agency of the Ministry of Transportation, is the implementing agency for the education and training sector of the Transportation sector. This organization has caried out a variety of educational activities to improve the quality of human resources within the transportation sector in Indonesia. This study investigates their work to-date.
Keywords: Education, Transportation, Quality
Analysis of Ship Document Management by PT. Lintas Samudera Borneo Lines at One Stop Service Center
Authors: Komalasari Yeti
Published: January 2021

The purpose of this study is to evaluate document processing measures at a One Stop service center managed by PT. Lintas Samudera Borneo Lines. The study uses a qualitative method that involved data collection as well as direct interviews with research subjects and a literature study. From the results of research and discussion of document processing issues at the One Stop Service Center, the effort made was to divide time outside working hours by recruiting new employees in the operational field. The obstacles faced are the lack of two-way communication between ships and shipping companies.
Keywords: Process, Ship Document, One Stop Service Center
The Court of Shipping System For Ship Accident
Authors: Nufus Hayatun
Published: January 2021

Indonesia, which is known as an archipelago, has a sea area two times larger than its land area. This renders shipping a vital factor in for national unity, defense and security, politics, social, culture, and the economic and trade sectors. However, until now the management, empowerment and utilization of waters by the state have not been optimal for the welfare of the people. The Shipping Court is an administrative quasi-judicial body (Quasi Rechtspraak) with the task of adjudicating cases or violations of shipping safety submitted by the Directorate General of Sea Transportation. The Shipping Court is only entitled to issue sanctions that are administrative in nature and in the form of provisions (beschiking), therefore the authority of the Shipping Court only applies to certain parties (skippers, ship crews, ship entrepreneurs and parties involved in sea shipping). However, a decision issued by the Shipping Court as an administrative moot court can be used as initial evidence for an investigator if an indication of a criminal act is found.
Keywords: Court System, Shipping Court, Ship
Officials Ethics for the Transportation Ministry to Serve Community and State
Authors: Khairani Muhammad
Published: January 2021

The Ministry of Transportation is a state instrument that will realize the ideals of the country. It enforces a set of ethics which regulate the behavior of officials in official government agencies, ensuring a commendable moral direction. Ministry ethics are based on social norms and legal norms, and ensure government officials fulfill the wants and needs of the community.
Keywords: Ethics, Ministry of Transportation, Service
Doctor's Constributions in Transportation Monitoring During COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Victoria Ong Argo , . Misykah
Published: January 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic is a problem faced by almost all countries in the world including Indonesia. Transportation sector actors are amongst those vulnerable to the impact of COVID-19. This study analyses the application of health protocols carried out by people using transportation facilities during the pandemic. The method used is qualitative analysis with exploratory steps with participatory observation techniques. The results show that the awareness of some people about the COVID-19 pandemic has not paid much attention to its impact, so that in this case the role of doctors in monitoring transportation is very important. Namely by socializing transportation service users by implementing health protocol efforts including wearing masks, avoiding shaking hands and washing hands with soap, and so on. The impact of the pandemic on transportation services has decreased.
Keywords: COVID-19 Pandemic, Transportation, Role of Doctors, Health Protocols
Integrating Big Data Analytics, Systems Thinking and Viable Systems Approach Towards a Shift from Individual to Collective Intelligence and Collective Knowledge Systems
Authors: Armenia Stefano , Loia Francesca
Published: January 2021

Purpose – The growing complexity of social systems and the faster technology evolution make central the role of the innovative information technology in complex organisations, geared towards collective intelligence processes among the various social actors and analytical tools. These are able to foster the participant knowledge, manage the feedback through a holistic approach and hence shift organisations from a plurality of voices to an interactive intelligence representing the ultimate identity of the organisation itself. In this regard, the aim of this paper is to offer a model for managing external and internal knowledge in order to support the viability of the organisation (system) in the longer term. Design/methodology/approach – The paper adopts the interpretative lens provided by Systems Thinking, System Dynamics and Viable System Approach (vSa) to investigate the challenging domain of the knowledge and information management for complex systems as organisations. Therefore, a qualitative and interpretative approach is carried out to reflect upon Big Data approaches and Collective Knowledge Systems (CKS), embracing a system perspective. Findings – The proposed conceptual model shows the crucial role covered by the holistic managing of the external and internal knowledge that permits to align the information variety of the organisation to the context and the entities that compose it in order to create harmonic relations. Leveraging on the concepts of vicariance, bricolage and exaptation, several advantages emerge that are correlated to the capacity of the complex system to reach a greater level of survival, by adapting and dynamically evolving itself. Originality/value – The paper shows how Systems Thinking and Viable System Approach can provide deep insights into the field of information technology, evidencing the systems thinking contribution in analysing, understanding and managing dimensions and paths of social dynamics. A contribution to previous studies is provided with reference to themes as Big Data, information and knowledge management.
Sostenibilidad fiscal luego del Covid 19
Authors: Pereyra Ayala José-Luis
Published: January 2021

Debido a la crisis sanitaria y al confinamiento obligatorio consecuencia del Covid 19 en 2020, muchas economías han desnudado vulnerabilidades que ahora se están intensificando, y que constituyen profundas dificultades para una recuperación. Sin embargo, pese a la gran crisis mundial algunos países han logrado contener las caídas de corto plazo utilizando medidas de política monetaria y un gran soporte fiscal como en el caso del Perú. A pesar de la drástica caída del producto (30,2 por ciento en el primer trimestre y 17 por ciento en el primer semestre de 2020) la respuesta se ha traducido en medidas monetarias y fiscales del orden del 20 por ciento del producto dirigidas al otorgamiento de garantías y ampliación del crédito, a la reducción de tasas de interés y al inicio de medidas de gasto público e impuestos.
The Impact of Basel III Capital Regulation on Credit Risk: A Hybrid Model
Authors: ALFOUHAILI NADIM ANASS , GAUTIER Frédéric , ZAAROUR Iyad
Published: January 2021

This research examined the impact of Basel III capital regulation (BCR) on credit risk (CR) using a sample of 25 commercial banks in Lebanon over the period 2012–2017. BCR is measured using the capital adequacy ratio (CAR) and the common equity tier one ratio (CET1 ratio), CR is measured using net provision for credit losses /total assets. To analyze the data, we constructed a hybrid model based on 3 statistical approaches. First, we modelled the dual impact of BCR and CR using probabilistic inference in the framework of Bayesian Belief Network formalism (BBN). Second, to highlight more about the correlation between BCR and CR, we used Spearman correlation test as a nonparametric approach. Third to study the simultaneous effect of CAR and CET1 ratio on CR we applied multivariate regression analysis. By analyzing the probabilistic inference for the first approach we concluded that there is an effect of BCR on CR especially for the high level of CET1 ratio, but when we investigated more if this effect is significant using the Spearman correlation test and the multivariate regression analysis, we concluded that there is no effect statistically significant of Basel III capital regulation (BCR) on credit risk (CR).
The Controlling of Ownership on the relationship between Financial Performance and Capital Structure in Indonesia
Authors: Albart Nicko , Sinaga Bonar Marulitua , Santosa Perdana Wahyu , Andati Trias
Published: January 2021

The purpose of the study was to determine the determinants of the firms' capital structure concerning their maximum financial performance. To reach this aim, the data of the financial statements firms of Indonesia were used. As the first method, a Pearson correlation matrix was applied to determine a statistically significant correlation between capital structure indicator (debt-to-assets ratio) and financial performance and ownership of the firms. The analysis used the data panel multiple regression model to assess the effect of these independent and controlling variables on leverage. Some findings are that profitability has positive (ROA) and negative (ROE) effect on leverage. MBV and tangibility do not affect the capital structure, and firm size negatively impacts on it. In this panel analysis, it was confirmed that the managerial and institutional ownership impact on leverage negatively and positively, respectively. By decreasing the sales growth, the debt ratio entity rises, or they have a negative relationship. Based on these findings, it can be stated that financial performances influenced the capital structure.
Profit Growth : Impact of Net Profit Margin, Gross Profit Margin and Total Assests Turnover
Authors: Nariswari Talitha Nathaniela , Nugraha Nugi Mohammad
Published: January 2021

As an industry that has an important role for other industrial sectors, the plastic and packaging industry is the supply chain for consumer products. Behind the high industrial growth and the potential is still large, there are problems with plastic waste, consumption power, and changes in people's lifestyles that can affect the growth of the plastic and packaging industry. This study aims to determine how much impact the NPM (Net Profit Margin), GPM (Gross Profit Margin), TAT (Total Assets Turnover) on Profit Growth in the plastic and packaging industry sub-sector companies listed in IDX (Indonesia Stock Exchange) for the period 2014 to 2018. The method used in this study is a quantitative descriptive. The sampling technique used was purposive sampling in order to obtain a sample of 11 companies from a population of 12 companies. In the study the method of data analysis used the multiple linear regression analysis techniques by processing data using Eviews 8, because the data is not normally distributed, it uses the log transformation method. The results showed that simultaneously NPM (Net Profit Margin), GPM (Gross Profit Margin), TAT (Total Assets Turnover) had a significant effect on profit growth. And partially NPM (Net Profit Margin) has a significant effect on profit growth, while GPM (Gross Profit Margin) and TAT (Total Assets Turnover) have no significant effect on profit growth.
The Impact of Corona Pandemic on Consumer’s Food Consumption – Vulnerability of Households with Children and Income Losses
Authors: Profeta Adriano , Siddiqui Shahida , Smetana Sergiy , Hossaini Mahdi , Hieke Sophie , Enneking Ulrich , Heinz Volker , Kircher Christian
Published: January 2021

This study clearly shows that the corona pandemic has a significant impact on consumers’ eating habits. More food is eaten overall, and more convenience products such as ready meals and canned food with a longer shelf life are purchased. The consumption of alcohol and confectionery has also increased. In return, the consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables has declined. It becomes clear that families who are financially affected by the pandemic represent a vulnerable group. With the increasing duration of the pandemic, repeated lockdowns, corona-related closings of schools and kindergartens, health consequences are to be expected in the medium to long term, especially for this population group.
Seasonal Changes in Concentrations and Sources of Atmospheric PM, Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons and Nitropolycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Kanazawa, Japan
Authors: Hayakawa Kazuichi , Tang Ning , Xing Wanli , Oanh Pham Kim , Hara Akinori , Nakamura Hiroyuki
Published: January 2021

PM2.5 and PM>2.5 were separately collected in Kanazawa, Japan in every season from the spring of 2017 to the winter of 2018, and nine polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and six nitropolycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (NPAHs) were determined by HPLC with fluorescence and chemiluminescence detections, respectively. Atmospheric concentrations of both PAHs and NPAHs showed seasonal changes (highest in the winter and lowest in the summer), which were different from the variations of TSP and PM2.5 (highest in the spring). Contributions of major sources to combustion-derived particulate (Pc) in PM2.5 were calculated by the NP-method using pyrene and 1-nitropyrene as representative markers of PAHs and NPAHs, respectively. The annual average concentration of Pc accounted for only 2.1% of PM2.5, but showed the same seasonal variation as PAHs. The sources of Pc were automobiles (31%) and coal heating facilities/industries (69%). The source of Pyr was almost entirely coal heating facilities/industries (98%). A backward trajectory analysis showed that automobile-derived Pc was mainly from Kanazawa and its surroundings and that coal heating facilities-derived Pc was transported from city areas in central and northern China in the winter and during the Asian dust event in the spring. These results show that large amounts of PAHs were long-range transported from China in the winter. Even in spring when the coal heating season was over in China, PAHs came over to Japan after Asian dust storms passed through Chinese city areas. The main contributor of NPAHs was automobiles in Kanazawa and its surroundings. The recent Pc concentrations were much lower than those in 1999. This decrease was mostly attributed to the decrease in the contribution of automobiles. Thus, changes of atmospheric concentrations of Pc, PAHs and NPAHs in Kanazawa were strongly affected not only by the local emissions but also long-range transport from China.
m5U54 tRNA Hypomodification by lack of TRMT2A Drives the Generation of tRNA-Derived Small RNAs
Authors: Pereira Marisa , Ribeiro Diana R. , Pinheiro Miguel M. , Ferreira Margarida , Kellner Stefanie , Soares Ana R.
Published: January 2021

Transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules contain various post-transcriptional modifications that are crucial for tRNA stability, translation efficiency, and fidelity. Besides their canonical roles in translation, tRNAs also originate tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), a class of small non-coding RNAs with regulatory functions ranging from translation regulation to gene expression control and cellular stress response. Recent evidence indicates that tsRNAs are also modified, however, the impact of tRNA epitranscriptome deregulation on tsRNAs generation is only now beginning to be uncovered. The 5-methyluridine (m5U) modification at position 54 of cytosolic tRNAs is one of the most common and conserved tRNA modifications among species. The tRNA methyltransferase TRMT2A catalyzes this modification, but its biological role remains mostly unexplored. Here, we show that TRMT2A knockdown in human cells induces m5U54 tRNA hypomodification, resulting in angiogenin (ANG) dependent tsRNA formation. More specifically, m5U54 hypomodification is followed by ANG overexpression and tRNA cleavage near the anticodon, resulting in accumulation of 5’tRNA-derived stress-induced RNAs (5’tiRNAs), in particular 5’tiRNA-GlyGCC and 5’tiRNA-GluCTC. Additionally, transcriptomic analysis confirms that down-regulation of TRMT2A and consequently m5U54 hypomodification impacts the cellular stress response and RNA stability, which is often correlated with tsRNA generation. Accordingly, exposure to oxidative stress conditions induces TRMT2A down-regulation and tsRNA formation in mammalian cells. These results establish a link between tRNA demethylation and ANG-dependent tsRNAs formation and unravel m5U54 as a tRNA cleavage protective mark.
Calculation of the Vapour Pressure of Organic Molecules by Means of a Group-Additivity Method and their Resultant Gibbs Free Energy and Entropy of Vaporization at 298.15K
Authors: Naef Rudolf , Acree Jr. William E.
Published: January 2021

The calculation of the vapour pressure of organic molecules at 298.15K is presented using a commonly applicable computer algorithm based on the group-additivity method. The basic principle of this method rests on the complete breakdown of the molecules into their constituting atoms, further characterized by their immediate neighbour atoms. The group contributions are calculated by means of a fast Gauss-Seidel fitting algorithm using the experimental data of 2036 molecules from literature. A ten-fold cross-validation procedure has been carried out to test the applicability of this method, which confirmed excellent quality for the prediction of the vapour pressure, expressed in log(pa), with a cross-validated correlation coefficient Q2 of 0.9938 and a standard deviation  of 0.26. Based on these data, the molecules' standard Gibbs free energy G°vap has been calculated. Furthermore, using their enthalpies of vaporization, predicted by an analogous group-additivity approach published earlier, the standard entropy of vaporization S°vap has been determined and compared with experimental data of 1129 molecules, exhibiting excellent conformance with a correlation coefficient R2 of 0.9598, a standard error  of 8.14 J/mol/K and a medium absolute deviation of 4.68%.
Forest Type and Tree Species Classification of Nemoral Forests With Sentinel-1 and 2 Time Series Data
Authors: Bjerreskov Kristian Skau , Nord-Larsen Thomas , Fensholt Rasmus
Published: January 2021

Mapping forest extent and forest cover classification are important for the assessment of forest resources in socio-economic as well as ecological terms. Novel developments in the availability of remotely sensed data, computational resources, and advances in areas of statistical learning have enabled fusion of multi-sensor data, often yielding superior classification results. Most former studies of nemoral forests fusing multi-sensor and multi-temporal data have been limited in spatial extent and typically to a simple classification of landscapes into major land cover classes. We hypothesize that multi-temporal, multi-censor data will have a specific strength in further classification of nemoral forest landscapes owing to the distinct seasonal patterns of the phenology of broadleaves. This study aimed to classify the Danish landscape into forest/non-forest and further into forest types (broadleaved/coniferous) and species groups, using a cloud-based approach based on multi-temporal Sentinel 1 and 2 data and machine learning (random forest) trained with National Forest Inventory (NFI) data. Mapping of non-forest and forest resulted in producer accuracies of 99% and 90 %, respectively. The mapping of forest types (broadleaf and conifer) within the forested area resulted in producer accuracies of 95% for conifer and 96% for broadleaf forest. Tree species groups were classified with producer accuracies ranging 34-74%. Species groups with coniferous species were the least confused whereas the broadleaf groups, especially Oak, had higher error rates. The results are applied in Danish National accounting of greenhouse gas emissions from forests, resource assessment and assessment of forest biodiversity potentials.
Facing Racism and Sexism in Science by Fighting against Social Implicit Bias: A Latin and Black Woman Perspective.
Authors: Calaza Karin , Erthal Fatima , Pereira Mirtes , Macario Kita , Daflon Veronica , David Isabel , Castro Helena , Vargas Maria , Martins Laura , Stariolo Jasmin , Volchan Eliane , Oliveira Leticia
Published: January 2021

The editors of several major journals have recently asserted the importance of combating racism and sexism in science. This is especially relevant now, as the COVID-19 pandemic may have led to a widening of the gender and racial/ethnicity gaps. Implicit bias is a crucial component in this fight. Negative stereotypes that are socially constructed in a given culture are frequently associated with implicit bias (which is unconscious or not perceived). In the present article, we point to scientific evidence that shows the presence of implicit bias in the academic community, which contributes to strongly damaging unconscious evaluations and judgments of individuals or groups. Additionally, we suggest several actions aimed at (1) editors and reviewers of scientific journals, (2) people in positions of power within funding agencies and research institutions and (3) members of selection committees to mitigate this effect. These recommendations are based on the experience of a group of Latin American scientists comprising Black and Latin women, teachers and undergraduate students who participate in a women in science working group at universities in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. With this article, we hope to contribute to reflections, actions and the development of institutional policies that enable and consolidate diversity in science and reduce disparities based on gender and race/ethnicity.
A Study Of Vernacular Architecture And Settlement Of Diasporic ‘Manipuri’ Community In Bangladesh
Authors: Saha Kawshik , Chowdhury Shawkat Jahan
Published: January 2021

This study intends to study a distinct typology of vernacular architecture built by the Manipuri communities of Bangladesh. The Manipuris are one of the ethnic diasporic communities in Bangladesh commonly known for their diverse cultural practice, including their dance form. This research aims to reveal the cultural entity of Manipuri that has been transformed into their living environment and household architecture. Architectural elements adapted by the Manipuris are assessed here as a part of cultural symbols to have a rigorous view of the philosophy of living. This study is a documentation of Manipuri habitat culture through the intervention of their living environment, which will attract any future working on this issue. This research shows that despite a rapid socio-economic change of context, the Manipuri housing practice is deeply connected to their socio-cultural and religious values. As the authors used an observational and ethnographical approach to studying vernacular architecture for this research.
Associations Between DPP9 Expression, Survival and Gene Expression Signature in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Comprehensive In Silico Analyses
Authors: Huang Jiali Carrie , Al Emran Abdullah , Endaya Justine Moreno , McCaughan Geoffrey W , Gorrell Mark D , Zhang Hui Emma
Published: January 2021

Dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP) 9, DPP8, DPP4 and fibroblast activation protein (FAP) are the four enzymatically active members of the S9b protease family. Associations of DPP9 with human liver cancer, exonic single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in DPP9 and loss of function (LoF) variants have not been explored. Human genomic databases including The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) were interrogated to identify DPP9 LoF variants and associated cancers. Survival and gene signature analyses were performed on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) data. We found that DPP9 and DPP8 are intolerant to LoF variants. DPP9 LoF variants were most often associated with uterine carcinoma. Two DPP9 intronic SNPs that have been associated with lung fibrosis and COVID-19 were not associated with liver fibrosis or cancer. All four DPP4-like genes were overexpressed in liver tumours and their joint high expression was associated with poor survival in HCC. Increased DPP9 expression was associated with obesity in HCC patients.. High expression of genes that positively correlated with overexpression of DPP4, DPP8, and DPP9 were associated with very poor survival in HCC. Enriched pathways analysis of these positively correlated genes featured Toll-like receptor and SUMOylation pathways. This comprehensive data mining suggests that DPP9 is essential for human survival and the DPP4 protease family is important in cancer pathogenesis.
How Fear of COVID-19 Can Affect Treatment Choices for Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphomas Alk+ Therapy: A Case Report
Authors: Sica Antonello , Sagnelli Caterina , Casale Beniamoni , Svaneta Gino , Creta Massimiliano , Calogero Armando , Franco Renato , Sagnelli Evangelista , Ronchi Andrea
Published: January 2021

Background: The t (2; 5) chromosomal rearrangement and resulting nucleophosmin (NPM1) -ALK fusion was first observed in 1994 in anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), a T-cell lymphoma responsive to cyclophosphamide, abriblastine, vincristine and prednisone in approximately 80% of cases; refractory cases usually respond favorably to brentuximab-vedotin. These treatments are regarded as a bridge to allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT). Nowadays, transplant procedures and monitoring of chemotherapy patients proceed very slowly because the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has heavily clogged the hospitals in all countries. Results: A 40-year-old Caucasian woman was first seen at our clinical center in June 2020. She had ALCL ALK +, a history of failure to two previous therapeutic lines and was in complete remission after 12 courses of Brentuximab, still pending allo-SCT after two failed donor selection. Facing of a new therapeutic failure, we requested the Italian drug regulatory agency, and obtained the authorization, to administer 250 mg twice a day of Crizotinib, a drug incomprehensibly not registered for ALCL ALK +. Conclusions: The response to Crizotinib was optimal, since no adverse event occurred, and CT-PET persisted negative; this drug has proved to be a valid bridge to allo-SCT
Improving nitrogen fertilizer efficiency with the addition of compost extracts to kailan (Brassica oleracea L.) plants with wick hydroponic cultivation
Authors: Fitriani Tri , Pangaribuan Darwin Habinsaran , Niswati Ainin , Yusnaini Sri
Published: January 2021

The goal of this research was to observe the impact of the application of the forms of compost extract and urea fertilizer on the development of kailan plants in the hydroponic wick method. The experiment consisted of a quasi- experimental factorial design with the first element reflecting the compost type: no compost extract, cow manure compost extract, rice straw compost extract, and vermicompost extract. The second element was the use of 0, 100 and 200 kg ha-1 nitrogen fertilizers. The usage of vermicompost extract shows the maximum growth (59.27 cm), amount of leaves (23.00), overall plant weight (93.92 g plant-1), canopy weight (61.37 g plant-1), dried foliage weight (7.17 g plant-1), fresh root weight (33.40 g plant-1), leaf greenness (183.80 SPAD) and nutrient uptake (6.32 g plant-1). (6.32 g plant-1). The optimal nitrogen fertilizer application was found to be 200 kg ha-1, which culminated in the maximum plant height (42.18 cm), number of leaves (17.75), overall plant weight (60.42 g plant-1), leaf greenness (166.23 SPAD) and N uptake (3.73 g plant-1). With the addition of 100 kg of urea ha-1, Vermicompost extract achieved the maximum N adhesion strength of 112.05 per cent. The use of vermicompost extract in the production of crops with a hydroponic wick method could fulfill the nutrient requirements of plants.
Role and perspective of Azotobacter in crops production
Authors: Hindersah Reginawanti , Kamaluddin Nadia Nuraniya , Samanta Suman , Banerjee Saon , Sarkar Sarita
Published: January 2021

Low nitrogen content in soil is usually overcome by chemical fertilization. After long application period, high-dose and intensive use of N fertilizers can cause ammonia volatilization and nitrates accumulation in soil. In sustainable agriculture, the use of bacterial inoculant integrated with nutrient management system has a role in soil health and productivity. Azotobacter-based biofertilizer is suggested as a chemical nitrogen fertilizer substitute or addition in crop production to improve available nutrients in the soil, provide some metabolites during plant growth, and minimize fertilizer doses. The objective of this literature reviewed paper is to discuss the role of Azotobacter in agriculture; and the prospective of Azotobacter to increase yield and substitute the chemical fertilizer in food crops production. The results revealed that mechanisms by Azotobacter in plant growth enhancement are as biofertilizer, biostimulant, and bioprotectant. Nitrogen fixation by Azotobacter is the mechanism to provide available nitrogen for uptake by roots. Azotobacter stimulates plant growth through phytohormones synthesis; indole acetic acid, cytokinins, and gibberellins are detected in the liquid culture of Azotobacter. An indirect effect of Azotobacter is exopolysaccharide production and plant protection. Inoculation of Azotobacter in the field integrated with organic matter and reduced chemical fertilizer are reported to improve plant growth and yield.