bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance, Interaction, and Satisfaction of Graduate EAP Students in a Face-to-Face and an Online Class: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Stanchevici Dmitri , Siczek Megan
Published: February 2020

Before arriving in a host country, international students may be motivated to complete some institutional requirements online. Many studies address computer-assisted instruction for second-language students, but few focus on fully online English for Academic Purposes (EAP) writing courses. This comparative case study, grounded in action research, examined the extent to which a fully online version of a graduate-level EAP course offered to international students at a North American university achieved comparable outcomes to a face-to-face version. A quantitative and qualitative analysis of study participants’ performance and course evaluations indicated that the outcomes and student satisfaction of both cohorts were comparable. However, an examination of the participants’ final research papers and online interactions revealed differences and challenges. Based on these findings, it is recommended that future online courses provide more instruction on source integration, library research, and building an interactive learning community. Overall, the findings suggest that when carefully designed, assessed, and refined, fully online courses hold strong promise in EAP academic writing contexts.

Les étudiantes et étudiants internationaux tiennent parfois à remplir certaines exigences institutionnelles en ligne avant de se rendre dans leur pays d’accueil. L’enseignement assisté par ordinateur pour les apprenantes et apprenants d’anglais langue seconde fait l’objet de nombreuses études, mais peu d’entre elles portent sur des cours d’écriture d’anglais académique (EAP) complètement dispensés en ligne. Entièrement basée sur la recherche-action, la présente étude de cas comparative fait état du degré de comparabilité des résultats d’un cours d’anglais académique de deuxième cycle complètement présenté en ligne à des étudiantes et étudiants internationaux inscrits à une université nord-américaine et des résultats obtenus lorsque le même cours était dispensé en personne. Une analyse quantitative et qualitative des rendements des participantes et participants et du cours lui-même a indiqué que les résultats et le degré de satisfaction des étudiantes et étudiants des deux cohortes se valaient. L’examen des rapports de recherche finaux des participantes et participants et celui des interactions en ligne ont toutefois révélé des écarts et des défis. Sur la base de ces constatations, il est recommandé que les futurs cours en ligne fournissent davantage d’instructions sur l’intégration des sources, sur les recherches en bibliothèque et sur la construction d’une communauté d’apprentissage interactif. Dans l’ensemble, les constatations de l’étude suggèrent que, s’ils sont soigneusement conçus, évalués et peaufinés, les cours complètement dispensés en ligne sont très prometteurs dans des contextes d’écriture en anglais académique.
Análisis comparativo de la pobreza en las fronteras de México: aplicación del coeficiente de Engel
Authors: Barrera Rojas Miguel Ángel , Galván Saavedra Eleazar Santiago , Marín Marín Lázar , Pérez García Ramón Eduardo
Published: February 2020

This article provides a comparative analysis of the norcoefficient on two different poverty lines: affordance and wealth. This coefficient allows observing the proportion of food spending as compared to other goods and the total available expenditures. Thus, it provides obtained from the National Income and Expenditure Survey to Mexican Households (ENIGH) 2016. The work is quite relevant since in the scholarly literature available, there is not any analysis endeavor like this one addressing the poverty in Mexico and based on this method. The main results showed that opposed to facts indicated by the theory and literature review about a better performance in the creation and distribution of wealth in the northern border there is little difference between these two borders regarding the poverty line. However, the poverty line of wealth shows a strong difference. It is concluded that the access to non-food goods like the housing, clothes and transport is a determining factor for the differentiated poverty in the study regions
Minería en Usme, Bogotá:
justicia espacial y percepciones sociales
Authors: Gómez Avellaneda Andrés Loenardo , Hernández Peña Yolanda Teresa , Zafra Mejía Carlos
Published: February 2020

Mining has become one of the most critical and controversial themes both in our country and in Latin America. It is not only due to the environmental effects on the ecosystems, but also due to the social impacts it causes, mainly in relation to the exploitation progress in inhabited areas, the unlawful development process, and the generation of risk zones. Regarding this phenomenon, the spatial justice becomes a critical category enabling to interpret the inequality processes that these exploitations brought about. This article aims to analyze the social perceptions on the mining based on the spatial justice. This research was conducted as a case study including tools like surveys, interviews, observation of subjects, and social cartography in order to gather information. A feeling of spatial injustice was particularly noted when people told their dissent about the concentration of mining exploitations in areas with social, political and financial deprivation
Asians and Other Races Express Similar Levels of and Share the Same Genetic Polymorphisms of the SARS-CoV-2 Cell-Entry Receptor
Authors: Chen Ying , Shan Kejia , Qian Wenfeng
Published: February 2020

The recurrent coronavirus outbreaks in China (SARS-CoV and its relative, SARS-CoV-2) raise the possibility that Asians are more susceptible to coronavirus. Here, we test this possibility with the lung expression of ACE2, which encodes the cell-entry receptor of both SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2. We show that ACE2 expression is not affected during tumorigenesis, suggesting that the transcriptome data from the more than 1000 lung cancer samples in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) can be used to study ACE2 expression among people without cancer. The expression of ACE2 increases with age, but is not associated with sex. Asians show a similar ACE2 expression to other races. Furthermore, the frequencies of ACE2 alleles in Asians are not significantly deviated from those in other races. These observations indicate that individuals of all races need the same level of personal protection against SARS-CoV-2.
Diffusion Criteria of O3 Gas Emitted From Non-Thermal Atmospheric-Pressure Biocompatible Plasma Sterilizer for Safety Environment
Authors: Park Jang Sick , Choi Eun Ha
Published: February 2020

Medical institutions, where several patients are treated and medical workers engaged, are always exposed to secondary viral and bacterial infections. It is critical to prevent infection transmission by indirect as well as direct contact through air or splash. The infections of most diseases can be transmitted through the air. HEPA filters installed in air conditioning equipment are used to prevent infection transmission through air in medical institutions, but air circulation takes a long time in a large space. Virus and bacteria smaller than 0.3 μm cannot be removed by the HEPA filter; hence, those microbes remain alive throughout the air ventilation. A plasma sterilizer has the capability to provide environmental friendly sterilization by employing reactive oxide species and reactive nitrogen species at a low cost. We developed an excellent plasma sterilizer by using a non-thermal atmospheric-pressure biocompatible plasma (NBP). Ozone concentration in plasma sources has been derived by Kuhn et al. [1]. The diffusion coefficients inside (D0) and outside (D1) the plasma sterilizer have been calculated to be 0.0641 m2 s-1 and 0.717 m2 s-1, respectively. To sustain high O3 concentrations over 121 ppm inside the plasma source and low O3 concentrations below 0.05 ppm outside the sterilizer, it is necessary to keep O3 concentrations at the exit of plasma sterilizer below 0.28 ppm. so that diffusion coefficient D1 has been designed to be as large as 11 times of D0.
Optical and Chromaticity Properties of Metal-Dielectric Composite-Based Multilayer Thin-Film Structures Prepared by RF Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Alam Mohammad Nur-E , Rahman Md Momtazur , Basher Mohammad Khairul , Vasiliev Mikhail , Alameh Kamal
Published: February 2020

Over the last decades, the coated glass products, and especially the low-emissivity coatings have become a common building material used in modern architectural projects. More recently, these material systems became common in specialized glazing systems featuring solar energy harvesting. Apart from achieving the stability of optical parameters in multilayer coatings, it is also important to have improved control over the design of visual color properties of the coated glass. We prepare metal-dielectric composite (MDC) based multilayer thin-film structures using the RF-magnetron sputtering deposition and report on their optical and chromaticity properties in comparison with these obtained using pure metal-based Dielectric/Metal/Dielectric (DMD) trilayer structures of similar compositions. Experimentally achieved Hunter L, a, b values of MDC-based multilayer building blocks of coatings provide a new outlook on the engineering of future-generation optical coatings with better color consistency and developing approaches to broaden the range of achievable color coordinates and better environmental stability.
Structural Identification of the Electrostatic Hot Spots for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Spike Protein to Be Complexed with Its Receptor ACE2 and Its Neutralizing Antibodies
Authors: Li Wei
Published: February 2020

The spike protein of SARS coronavirus (SARS-CoV) attaches the virus to its cellular receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), which is mediated by the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein. Recently, an analysis based on decade-long structural studies of SARS was reported to illustrate with atomic-level details receptor recognition by the novel coronavirus from Wuhan, i.e., 2019-nCoV. Here, this article reports a comprehensive set of structural electrostatic analysis of all SARS-CoV spike protein RBD-related structures as of February 13, 2020, aiming at identifying the electrostatic hot spots for SARS-CoV spike protein to be complexed with ACE2 and its neutralizing antibodies. First, this article identified a structural action mechanism of the F26G19 antibody (of SARS-CoV spike protein), where its Asp56 residue binds to the Arg426 of the SARS-CoV spike protein RBD against the formation of the interfacial Arg426-Glu329 salt bridges between ACE2 and the SARS-CoV spike protein RBD. Second, a hypothesis is reported that a pair of electrostatic clips exist at the interface between ACE2 and the SARS-CoV spike protein RBD, including both Arg426-Glu329 and His445-Glu23-Lys447 salt bridges. Last, this article reports a structurally identified interfacial Glu35-Arg479 salt bridge which helps stabilize the complex structure of ACE2 and the SARS-CoV spike protein RBD. Overall, the structurally identified electrostatic hot spots reported here may be useful for the design of SARS-CoV-neutralizing antibodies in future.
Absorptive Desulfurization of Model Biogas Stream Using Choline Chloride-Based Deep Eutectic Solvents
Authors: Słupek Edyta , Makoś Patrycja
Published: February 2020

The paper presents a synthesis of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) based on choline chloride (ChCl) as hydrogen bond acceptor and phenol (Ph), glycol ethylene (EG), and levulinic acid (Lev) as hydrogen bond donors in 1:2 molar ratio. DESs were successfully used as absorption solvents for removal of dimethyl disulfide from (DMDS) from model biogas steam. Several parameters affecting the absorption capacity and absorption rate has been optimized including kind of DES, temperature, the volume of absorbent, model biogas flow rate, and initial concentration of DMDS. Furthermore, reusability and regeneration of DESs by means of adsorption and nitrogen barbotage followed by the mechanism of absorptive desulfurization by means of density functional theory (DFT) as well as FT-IR analysis were investigated. Experimental results indicate that the most promising DES for biogas purification is ChCl:Ph, due to high absorption capacity, relatively long absorption rate, and easy regeneration. The research on the absorption mechanism revealed that van der Waal interaction is the main driving force for DMDS removal from model biogas.
Stratosphere–Troposphere Exchange and O3 Decline in the Lower Stratosphere over Irene SHADOZ Site, South Africa
Authors: Mkololo Thumeka , Mbatha Nkanyiso , Venkataraman Sivakumar , Begue Nelson , Coetzee Gerrie , Labuschagne Casper
Published: February 2020

This study aims to investigate the Stratosphere-Troposphere Exchange (STE) events and ozone trends over Irene (25.5°S, 28.1°E). Twelve years of ozonesondes data (2000–2007, 2012–2015) from Irene station operating in the framework of the Southern Hemisphere Additional Ozonesodes (SHADOZ) was used to study the troposphere (0–16 km) and stratosphere (17– 28 km) ozone (O3) vertical profiles. Ozone profiles were grouped into three categories (2000–2003, 2004–2007 and 2012–2015) and average composites were calculated for each category. Fifteen O3 enhancement events were identified over the study period. These events were observed in all seasons (one event in summer, four events in autumn, five events in winter and five events in spring), however, they predominantly occur in winter and spring. The STE events presented here are observed to be influenced by the Southern Hemisphere polar vortex. During the STE events, the advected potential vorticity maps assimilated using Modélisation Isentrope du transport Méso–échelle de l’Ozone Stratosphérique par Advection (MIMOSA) model for the 350 K (~12–13 km) isentropic level indicated a transport of high latitude air masses which seems to be responsible for the reduction of the O3 mole fractions at the lower stratosphere over Irene which takes place at the same time with the enhancement of ozone in the upper troposphere. In general, the stratosphere is dominated by higher Modern Retrospective Analysis for Research Application (MERRA-2) potential vorticity (PV) values compared to the troposphere. However, during the STE events, higher PV values from the stratosphere were observed to intrude the troposphere. Ozone decline was observed from 12 km to 24 km with highest decline occurring from 14 km to 18 km. An average decrease of 6.0 and 9.1% was calculated from 12 to 24 km in 2004–2007 and 2012–2015 respectively. The observed decline occurred in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere with winter and spring showing more decline compared with summer and autumn.
Effect of Genotypic and Phenotypic Variations on Essential Oil Aromatic Profiles of Makwhaen Fruits
Authors: Sriwichai Trid , Phusadee Tonapha , Wisetkomolmat Jiratchaya , sringarm Korawan , Mekchay Supamit , Jantanasakulwong Kittisak , Duangmal Kiattisak , Sommano Sarana
Published: February 2020

In order to obtain makhwean (MK) fruit essential oil of constant aromatic profile during raw material sourcing, evaluation of relationship between genotype, phenotype and chemical profiles are necessary. Three specimens of the MK (MK1-3) distributed in Northern Thailand were genetically and morphologically compared with other Zanthoxylum spices known locally as mamaad (MM) and makwoung (MKO), respectively. MM was taxonomical confirmed as Z. armatum based on plant structure and leaf characteristic (Odd-pinnately compound leaf). MKO and MK were identified as Z. rhetsa and Z. myriacanthum using number of petals and anthers. Genetic sequencing by Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) sequence and Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA moreover, divided these Zanthoxylum spps. into three groups accordingly to their species viz., MM, MKO and MK. Essential oil of the dried fruits from these samples was extracted and analysed for physical and chemical profiles. Cluster analysis (PCA-biplot) of volatile compositions was able to separate 1) MK1 and MK3 with limonene as leading component, 2) MK2 and MKO related with sabinene and β-philandrene, 3) MM with linalool. By using odour attribute representatives, the essential oil of MKO and MK1-3 were closely related possessing fruity, woody and citrus aromas, while the MM was sweet/ floral. In summary for MK raw material sourcing, plant genotyping played the most important role to odour characteristics than growing locations, thus plant species confirmation should be first considered.
Survey of Network Coding Based P2P File Sharing in Large Scale Networks
Authors: AbuDaqa Anas , Mahmoud Ashraf , Abu-Amara Marwan , Sheltami Tarek
Published: February 2020

Peer-to-peer (P2P) content distribution or file sharing system aims to facilitate the dissemination of large files over unreliable networks. Network coding is a new transmission technique that has captured the interest of researchers because of its ability to increase throughput and robustness of the network, and decrease the download time. In this survey paper, we extensively summarize, assess, compare, and classify the most recently used techniques to improve P2P content distribution systems performance using network coding. To the best of our knowledge, this survey is the first comprehensive survey that specifically focuses on the performance of network coding based P2P file sharing systems.
Extracellular Oncosomes Rich in Moonlighting Metalloproteinase (MMP3) Are Transmissive, Pro-Tumorigenic, and Induces Cellular Communication Network Factor 2 (CCN2/CTGF): CRISPR against Cancer
Authors: Okusha Yuka , Eguchi Takanori , Tran Manh Tien , Sogawa Chiharu , Yoshida Kaya , Itagaki Mami , Taha Eman Ahmed , Ono Kisho , Aoyama Eriko , Okamura Hirohiko , Kozaki Ken-ichi , Calderwood Stuart K. , Takigawa Masaharu , Okamoto Kuniaki
Published: February 2020

Matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP3) plays multiple roles in pro-tumorigenic proteolysis and in intracellular transcription. These include inducing connective tissue growth factor [CTGF, also known as cellular communication network factor 2 (CCN2)] and prompting a new definition of MMP3 as a moonlighting metalloproteinase. Members of the MMP family have been found within tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) such as oncosomes or exosomes. We here investigated the roles of MMP3-rich oncosomes in tumor progression, molecular transmission, and gene regulation. MMP3 and CCN2/CTGF were significantly co-expressed in tumor samples derived from patients suffering from colorectal adenocarcinoma. We found that oncosomes derived from a rapidly metastatic colon cancer cells (LuM1) were enriched in MMP3 and a C-terminal half fragment of CCN2/CTGF. MMP3-rich oncosomes were highly transmissive into recipient cells and were pro-tumorigenic in an allograft mouse model. Oncosome-derived MMP3 was transmissive into recipient cell nuclei, trans-activated CCN2/CTGF promoter, and induced CCN2/CTGF production at 1 to 6 hours after the addition of oncosomes to culture media. In addition, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of MMP3 showed significant anti-tumor effects, including inhibition of migration and invasion of LuM1 cells in vitro, inhibition of tumor growth in vivo, and reduction of CCN2/CTGF and its promoter activity in vitro. These data newly demonstrate that the oncosome-derived moonlighting metalloproteinase promotes metastasis and is pro-tumorigenic at distant sites as well as a transmissive trans-activator for the cellular communication network gene.
Higher Net Protein Balance Following the Ingestion of Free Range Reindeer Compared to Commercial Beef
Authors: Coker Melynda S. , Ladd Kaylee R. , Schutzler Scott E. , Park Sanghee , Williams Rick H. , Deutz Nicolaas E.P. , Wolfe Robert R. , Coker Robert H.
Published: February 2020

Wild game consumption has been associated with health benefits, but the influence on protein metabolism remains unknown. We compared the feeding-induced response to 2 oz of free-range reindeer (FR) versus commercial beef (CB) using stable isotope methodology. Seven male and female participants (age: 38±12 years; body mass index: 24±3 kg/m2) completed two studies using a randomized, crossover design in which they ingested 2 oz of FR or CB. L-[ring 2H5]phenylalanine & L-[ring 2H2]tyrosine were delivered via primed, continuous intravenous infusion. Blood samples were collected during the basal period and following consumption of FR or CB. Feeding-induced changes in whole body protein synthesis (PS), protein breakdown (PB), and net protein balance (NB) were determined via analysis of plasma samples for phenyalanine and tyrosine enrichment by gas chromatography mass spectrometry; plasma essential amino acid concentrations were determined by liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry. Plasma post-prandial essential amino acid (EAA) concentrations were higher with the ingestion of FR compared to CB (P=0.02). The acute feeding-induced response in PS was not different in either trial, but PB was reduced with the ingestion of FR compared to CB (P<0.0001). The difference in PB contributed to a superior level of NB (P<0.0001). When protein kinetics were normalized relative to the amino acids ingested, PB/EAAs and total amino acids ingested were reduced (P<0.01 and 0.001, respectively) in FR compared to CB; contributing to greater NB/total amino acid ingested (P<0.0001) between FR and CB. We conclude that the nutrient profiles of FR may have a more favorable benefit on protein metabolism compared to CB. These data support the potential health benefits of wild game in the preservation of whole-body protein.
Modeling the Genetic Basis of Individual Differences in Susceptibility to Gulf War Illness
Authors: Jones Byron C. , Miller Diane B. , Lu Lu , Zhao Wenyuan , Ashbrook David G. , Xu Fuyi , Mulligan Megan K. , Williams Robert W. , Zhuang Daming , Torres-Rojas Carolina , O'Callaghan James P.
Published: February 2020

Between 25 and 30% of the nearly one million military personnel who participated in the 1991 Persian Gulf War became ill with chronic symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal to nervous system dysfunction. This disorder is now referred to as Gulf War Illness (GWI) and the underlying pathophysiology has been linked to exposure-based neuroinflammation caused by organophosphorous (OP) compounds coupled with high circulating glucocorticoids. In a mouse model of GWI we developed, corticosterone was shown to act synergistically with an OP (diisopropylflurophosphate) to dramatically increase proinflammatory cytokine gene expression in the brain. Because not all Gulf War participants became sick, the question arises as to whether differential genetic constitution might underlie individual differences in susceptibility. To address this question of genetic liability, we tested the impact of OP and glucocorticoid exposure in a genetic reference population of 30 inbred mouse strains. We also studied both sexes. The results showed wide differences among strains and overall that females were less sensitive to the combined treatment than males. Furthermore, we identified one OP-glucocorticoid locus and nominated a candidate gene—Spon1—that may underlie the marked differences in response.
The Positioning of the Electromechanical System Using Sliding Mode Control without a Reaching Phase
Authors: Brock Stefan
Published: February 2020

Precise and fast position tracking is essential for the correct operation of many industrial robots and CNC machine tools. This subject is also important in the control of the mount of the astronomical telescope, especially for the tracking of artificial satellites. As system parameters can change, a control method that is robust to changes in parameters must be used. Such a method is the sliding control, which, however, ensures the robustness only after reaching the sliding surface. Therefore, a new method was proposed in the paper, which eliminates the phase of reaching the sliding surface. The method consists of using a reference trajectory generator and determining the generalized error in relation to this trajectory. The procedure for designing the control system is presented. Next, the proposed method was verified on the laboratory stand. The described control method provides a robust system operation and can be easily implemented in the control system.
Data Processing and Information Classification: An In-Memory Approach
Authors: Andrighetti Milena , Turvani Giovanna , Santoro Giulia , Vacca Marco , Marchesin Andrea , Ottati Fabrizio , Ruo Roch Massimo , Graziano Mariagrazia , Zamboni Maurizio
Published: February 2020

To live in the information society means to be surrounded by billions of electronic devices full of sensors that constantly acquire data. This enormous amount of data must be processed and classified. A solution commonly adopted is to send these data to server farms to be remotely elaborated. The drawback is a huge battery drain due to high amount of information that must be exchanged. To compensate this problem data must be processed locally, near the sensor itself. But this solution requires huge computational capabilities. While microprocessors, even mobile ones, nowadays have enough computational power, their performance are severely limited by the Memory Wall problem. Memories are too slow, so microprocessors cannot fetch enough data from them, greatly limiting their performance. A solution is the Processing-In-Memory (PIM) approach. New memories are designed that are able to elaborate data inside them eliminating the Memory Wall problem. In this work we present an example of such system, using as a case of study the Bitmap Indexing algorithm. Such algorithm is used to classify data coming from many sources in parallel. We propose an hardware accelerator designed around the Processing-In-Memory approach, that is capable of implementing this algorithm and that can also be reconfigured to do other tasks or to work as standard memory. The architecture has been synthesized using CMOS technology. The results that we have obtained highlights that, not only it is possible to process and classify huge amount of data locally, but also that it is possible to obtain this result with a very low power consumption.
“Look at Me, I Plan to Quit Smoking”: Bayesian Hierarchical Analysis of Adolescent Smokers’ Intention to Quit Smoking
Authors: Ng'ombe John N. , Nedson N. Rodgers , Tembo Novan F. P.
Published: February 2020

The tobacco epidemic is one of the leading public health threats the world has ever faced and public health policy that seeks to limit the problem may not only have to target the price of tobacco but also the initiation stage in a smoker’s life – the adolescent stage. This research contributes to the health economics literature by using a Bayesian hierarchical logistic model, estimated using Hamiltonian Monte Carlo (HMC) methods to empirically identify what drives the intentions to quit smoking among adolescent smokers in Zambia. Results suggest that among the junior secondary school-going adolescent smokers in Zambia, about 63% have plans to quit smoking. We find socio-demographic characteristics and several tobacco-smoking-related factors as the main drivers of adolescent smokers’ plans to quit smoking. Most importantly, we provide insights that could be useful to help adolescent smokers realize their quitting plans.
Pengaruh Pertumbuhan Penduduk dan Penggunaan Lahan terhadap Kualitas Air
Authors: Noeraga Muhammad Arwanda Agam , Yudana Galing , Rahayu Paramita
Published: February 2020

Kecamatan Jatinangor Kabupaten Sumedang, ditetapkan sebagai Kawasan Strategis Provinsi (KSP) Jawa Barat dengan arahan prioritas pada bidang lingkungan hidup berdasarkan Rencana Tata Ruang Wilayah (RTRW) Provinsi Jawa Barat tahun 2009-2029. Selain itu, Jatinangor juga memiliki arahan prioritas pada bidang lingkungan dan sosial berdasarkan RTRW Kabupaten Sumedang tahun 2011-2031. Jatinangor mengalami peningkatan pertumbuhan penduduk dan pertumbuhan guna lahan terbangun yang pesat, serta permasalahan lingkungan terkait air bersih yakni penurunan muka sumber air tanah, pencemaran air tanah, dan penurunan debit sumber air baku Perusahaan Daerah Air Minum (PDAM). Pembahasan pada penelitian ini terkait dampak pertumbuhan penduduk dan perubahan guna lahan terhadap kualitas air bersih rumah tangga di Jatinangor. Komponen yang dibahas dalam penelitian ini meliputi laju pertumbuhan penduduk; kepadatan penduduk; peningkatan lahan terbangun; intensitas pemanfaatan lahan; kebijakan tata guna lahan; perkembangan kondisi air bersih; pengelolaan pemenuhan air bersih; dan kualitas air bersih rumah tangga berdasarkan persepsi masyarakat. Penelitian ini menggunakan data primer berupa observasi lapangan dan kuesioner; serta data sekunder. Teknik analisis yang digunakan adalah statistik deskriptif, skoring, dan spatial overlay. Jatinangor mengalami peningkatan kepadatan penduduk dan perubahan guna lahan terbangun yang tinggi dari guna lahan non terbangun seperti kebun/ladang/sawah menjadi guna lahan terbangun seperti permukiman, industri tekstil, dan sarana/prasarana selama dua tahun terakhir (2014-2016). Sementara itu, Jatinangor juga mengalami permasalahan penurunan muka air tanah, pencemaran air tanah, dan penurunan debit sumber air PDAM. Dari penilaian persepsi masyarakat Jatinangor terhadap kualitas air bersih rumah tangga dapat diketahui bahwa kualitas air bersih rumah tangga menurun dan kurang memadai untuk kebutuhan sehari-hari.
Perubahan Sentra Industri Kerajinan Batik Laweyan dalam Mendukung Kota Surakarta sebagai Kota Kreatif Desain
Authors: Rachmanto Ellyas Arini Wanda , Astuti Winny , Putri Rufia Andisetyana
Published: February 2020

Kota Surakarta ditetapkan menjadi kota kreatif desain pada tahun 2013 oleh Kementrian Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif, dengan dibentuknya SCCN (Solo Creative City Network) untuk di ajukan ke UNESCO sebagai salah satu kota kreatif di Indonesia. Kota kreatif desain memfokuskan pada kegiatan industri kerajinan yang mengunakan desain untuk menciptakan sebuah karya. Kota kreatif desain memiliki komponen dasar yaitu ekonomi, lingkungan, dan komunitas kreatif. Di Kota Surakarta terdapat 21 industri kreatif yang terbagi menjadi industri kreatif kuliner, seni pertunjukan, dan kerajinan. Industri kerajinan batik Laweyan merupakan industri kerajinan batik tertua di Kota Surakarta dan masih aktif hingga sekarang, sudah banyak mengalami pasang surut, serta tidak dapat dilepaskan pada perkembangan Kota Surakarta. Tujuan pada penelitian ini adalah untuk melihat perubahan dari sentra industri kerajinan batik di Kampung Batik Laweyan yang mendukung Kota Surakarta sebagai kota kreatif desain. Penelitian ini menggunakan analisis perubahan yaitu analisis Signed Rank Wilcoxon, dimana data yang dimasukan pada anlisis ini adalah data dari hasil rekap kuisioner yang pada definisi operasional dan menggunakan aplikasi SPSS. Analisis Signed Rank Wilcoxon dapat melihat perubahan serta nilai perubahan pada setiap komponen sentra industri kerajinan batik, sehingga dari analisis Wilcoxon ini dapat terlihat signifikansi perubahan. Selain itu penelitian ini juga menggunakan analisis deskriptif naratif untuk memberikan informasi lebih detail tentang perubahan yang terjadi di Kampung Batik Laweyan sesuai dengan komponen sentra industri kerajinan yang dapat mendukung Kota Surakarta sebagai kota kreatif desain. Perubahan yang terjadi pada komponen sentra industri kerajinan ini akan mendukung kota kreatif desain, apabila perubahan mengarah ke positif maka akan mendukung kota kreatif desain dan sebaliknya. Terdapat 2 komponen di sentra industri kerajinan Kampung Batik Laweyan yang tidak mengalami perubahan dan tidak dapat mendukung kota kreatif desain yaitu sarana edukasi dan perluasan pangsa pasar. Sehingga dapat direkomendasikan untuk pengembangan kawasan Kampung Batik Laweyan dengan pada sarana prasarana dan perluasan pangsa pasar.
Overview: Faktor Pendorong Terjadinya Keterkaitan Kota-desa dari Segi Pergerakan Orang antara Kota Mojokerto dengan Wilayah Peri-urban di Kabupaten Mojokerto
Authors: Aulia Belinda Ulfa
Published: February 2020

Kota Mojokerto sebagai wilayah perkotaan yang memiliki kelengkapan fasilitas pelayanan serta Kabupaten Mojokerto yang memiliki potensi dalam bidang pertanian dan perindustrian. Masyarakat melakukan pergerakan hingga keluar dari wilayah tempat tinggalnya, yaitu pergerakan dari desa ke kota maupun sebaliknya untuk memenuhi kebutuhannya. Hal ini menyebabkan beberapa masalah mulai bermunculan. Salah satunya terjadi kepadatan volume kendaraan pada beberapa ruas jalan. Pada penelitian ini memiliki tujuan untuk mengidentifkasi faktor-faktor pendorong terjadinya keterkaitan kota-desa antara Kota Mojokerto dengan wilayah peri urban di Kabupaten Mojokerto. Faktor-faktor tersebut dapat digunakan dalam perumusan arahan dalam program pembangunan terkait pola pergerakan penduduk dari desa ke kota dan dari kota ke desa yang terjadi secara masif maupun tidak masif.  Pada penelitian ini menggunakan analisis klaster JMP untuk mengetahui faktor-faktor yang mendorong terjadinya keterkaitan kota-desa antara Kota Mojokerto dengan wilayah peri urban di Kabupaten Mojokerto. Dari analisis tersebut, dapat diketahui bahwa terdapat beberapa faktor yang menjadi pendorong keterkaitan kota-desa dalam konteks pergerakan orang. Faktor yang mendorong pergerakan orang dari desa ke kota adalah keinginan masyarakat untuk mencari hiburan/rekreasi; ketersediaan fasilitas perbelanjaan atau rekreasi; kualitas pelayanan sarana; adanya peluang usaha; biaya hidup yang rendah; dan kemudahan menjangkau sarana. Sedangkan untuk faktor yang mendorong terjadinya pergerakan manusia dari kota ke desa adalah kualitas pelayanan sarana; biaya hidup yang rendah; keinginan masyarakat utnuk mencari hiburan; ketersediaan fasilitas perbelajaan atau rekreasi; adanya relasi/hubungan sosial; adanya peluang usaha; dan kemudahan menjangkau sarana. Faktor-faktor tersebut secara general termasuk dalam hubungan sosial ekonomi.
Haiti: Aspectos Socio-Históricos Internos e Emigração
Authors: Pinto Simone Rodrigues
Published: February 2020

O Haiti, um Estado fundado constitucionalmente na igualdade entre negros e brancos, vive no cotidiano uma cruel divisão racial entre negros e mulatos, uma complexa relação com os estrangeiros e, apesar da imensa riqueza geográfica e cultural, fraqueza e corrupção institucional paralisam seu desenvolvimento. Este texto se propõe a uma breve análise sócio-histórica, explanada de forma cronológica e linear para facilitar o encadeamento dos eventos, a fim de dar subsídios para a compreensão de alguns desses paradoxos e dos motivos do grande número de haitianos que emigram deste país.
Che Guevara: América Latina, o despertar de um continente
Authors: Ariet García María del Carmen
Published: February 2020

O presente trabalho faz parte de um conjunto de pressupostos poesquisados pela autora com o objetivo de se aprofundar nas preocupações e pesquisas que primeiro Ernesto Guevara fará no contexto e ambiente da América Latina de seus anos. a juventude, a seguir, posteriormente - convertida em Che -, propósitos e decisões maiores que o levariam a uma dimensão mais alta, marcada por sua determinação inabalável de lutar pela verdadeira soberania e independência do continente.Essa visão, vista de sua evolução histórica, contribui para uma compreensão mais completa do entendimento dos propósitos que se propunha alcançar desde o início de suas primeiras jornadas por regiões, agressivas e sugestivas, mas todas com resultados idênticos: um compromisso imparável com o homem América Latina e sua plena libertação.
Che Guevara e sua Contribuição ao Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico em Cuba
Authors: Saenz Tirso
Published: February 2020

Este artigo é um testemunho do autor que, como Vice-ministro para o Desenvolvimento Técnico, pode acompanhar Ernesto Che Guevara em seus momentos como Ministro de Indústrias em Cuba, o que explica suas referências e apreciações pessoais. Pretende-se mostrar aqui as concepções e consequentes ações do Che na esfera científico-tecnológica no Ministério, bem como problemas reais encontrados e resultados obtidos.
A Phase 2 Randomised Controlled Trial of Serelaxin to Lower Portal Pressure in Cirrhosis (STOPP)
Authors: Fallowfield Jonathan , Gifford Fiona J , Dunne Philip DJ , Weir Graeme , Ireland Hamish , Graham Catriona , Tuck Sharon , Hayes Peter C
Published: February 2020

Background: In preclinical models recombinant human relaxin-2 (serelaxin) had anti-fibrotic effects and ameliorated portal hypertension (PH). A small exploratory study in patients with cirrhosis also suggested that serelaxin could reduce portal pressure.
Methods: In a phase 2 double-blind randomised controlled study conducted in a single centre (Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, UK), male and female adult participants with cirrhosis and clinically-significant PH (CSPH; hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) >10 mmHg) were enrolled. Participants were allocated to serelaxin or placebo in a 3:1 ratio. The placebo was matched to serelaxin on appearance and administration protocol to create and maintain blinding. The primary endpoint was the change from baseline in fasting HVPG after 2 h peripheral i.v. serelaxin infusion (80 μg/kg/day for 60 min followed by 30 μg/kg/day for at least 60 min). Secondary endpoints included the change from baseline in hepatic blood flow and systemic haemodynamics (cardiac index, systemic vascular resistance index and aortic pulse wave velocity). Short-term safety and tolerability of serelaxin was assessed.
Results: A total of 17 participants were screened, 15 were randomised and 11 completed the study (n=9 serelaxin, n=2 placebo). Reasons for withdrawal were baseline HVPG <10 mmHg (n=2) and technical failure (n=2). The trial ended early due to manufacturer discontinuation of study drug. Median age was 56 (range 43-69) and 73% of participants were male. Alcohol was the commonest cirrhosis aetiology (n=10). Participants had a median Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score of 10 (range 6-14). Mean baseline HVPG was 16.3 mmHg (range 10.3-21.7). Individual responses were variable, but overall there was no statistically significant change in HVPG after 2 h i.v. serelaxin (arithmetic mean of difference ±SD was 0.4 ±3.5 mmHg (95% CI -2.3, 3.1; p=0.76)). There were also no substantial changes from baseline in hepatic or systemic haemodynamics. We recorded 12 adverse events in 7 participants treated with serelaxin; none were significant, and most were unrelated to the investigational medicinal product. There were no serious adverse events.
Conclusion: In a small randomised phase 2 proof-of-concept study in patients with cirrhosis and CSPH, serelaxin infusion was safe and well-tolerated but had a neutral effect on HVPG.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02669875, February 1st 2016,
Physical activity in paid work time for desk-based employees: a qualitative study of employers’ and employees’ perspectives
Authors: Ryde Gemma , Atkinson Patricia , Stead Martine , Gorely Trish , Evans Josie
Published: February 2020

Background: Poor physical and mental health of employees create significant problems in the workplace. Physical activity (PA) has been shown as an effective strategy for preventing and treating numerous physical and mental health issues as well as work performance outcomes. However, there are many barriers to taking part in PA (such as lack of time) with participation rates typically low. Providing PA in paid work time might be a way to overcome these issues, yet employers’ and employees’ opinions of this concept are unknown. The aim of this study was to explore employee and employer perspectives of PA in paid work time. Methods: Workplaces were recruited through existing contacts on the research team. Focus groups and interviews were conducted with employees and managers at one University and two executive non-departmental public bodies in central Scotland with mainly desk-based employees. Both managers and employees were involved to gain perspectives throughout the organisational hierarchy and were interviewed separately to reduce social desirably bias. All discussions were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed thematically for both managers and employees but due to significant overlap in themes between the groups, these are reported together in the results.Results: Three out of five organisations approached took part in this qualitative study. Two individual interviews were held with strategic managers, five focus groups with middle managers (n=16) and nine with employees (n=45). Benefits were anticipated by managers and employees for both employees themselves and the organisation and included improved mental health, productivity and more favourable perceptions of the employer. Despite these widely acknowledged benefits, significant barriers were identified and included the structure and nature of the working day (high workload, front line job requirements), workplace culture and norms (resentment from colleagues, no break culture) and organisational concerns (cost of lost time, public perceptions). Conclusion: This study suggests that there are significant barriers to PA in paid work time. Whilst numerous anticipated benefits were conveyed by both employees and managers, PA in paid work time is unlikely to become common place until changes in attitudes and the culture towards movement at work occur.
Cloning, molecular and functional characterization by overexpression in Arabidopsis of MAPKK genes from grapevine (Vitis vinifera)
Authors: Wang Gang , Liang Ying-hai , Zhang Ji-yu , Cheng Zong-Ming (Max)
Published: February 2020

Background: The mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), as a part of the MAPKKK-MAPKK-MAPK cascade, play crucial roles in plant development as an intracellular signal transduction pathways to respond various environmental signals. However, few MAPKK have been functionally characterized in grapevine.Results: In the study, five MAPKK (MKK) members were identified in grapevine (cultivar ‘Pinot Noir’), cloned and designated as VvMKK1-VvMKK5. A phylogenetic analysis grouped them into four sub-families based on the similarity of their conserved motifs and gene structure to Arabidopsis MAPKK members. qRT-PCR results indicated that the expression of VvMKK1, VvMKK2, VvMKK4, and VvMKK5 were up-regulated in mature leaf and young blades, and roots, but exhibited low expression in leaf petioles. VvMKK2, VvMKK3, and VvMKK5 genes were differentially up-regulated when grapevine leaves were inoculated with spores of Erisyphe necator, or treated with salicylic acid (SA), ethylene (ETH), H2O2, or exposed to drought, indicating that these genes may be involved in a variety of signaling pathways. Over expression of VvMKK2 and VvMKK4 genes in transgenic Arabidopsis plants resulted in the production of seeds with a significantly higher germination and survival rate, and better seedling growth under stress conditions than wild-type plants. Overexpression of VvMKK2 in Arabidopsis improved salt and drought stress tolerance while overexpression of VvMKK4 only improved salt stress tolerance.Conclusions: Results of the present investigation provide a better understanding of the interaction and function of MAPKKK-MAPKK-MAPK genes at the transcriptional level in grapevine and led to the identification of candidate genes for drought and salt stress in grapes.
Role of Sex Hormones and Their Receptors on Gastric Nrf2 and Neuronal Nitric Oxide Function in an Experimental Hyperglycemia Model
Authors: Sprouse Jeremy , Sampath Chethan , GANGULA PANDU
Published: February 2020

Background: Gastroparesis, a condition of abnormal gastric emptying, is most commonly observed in diabetic women. To date, the role of ovarian hormones and/or gastric hormone receptors on regulating nitrergic-mediated gastric motility remains inconclusive. Aim: The purpose of this study is to investigate whether sex hormones/their receptors can attenuate altered Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2), neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase (nNOS) expression and nitrergic relaxation in gastric neuromuscular tissues exposed to in-vitro hyperglycemia (HG). Methods: Gastric neuromuscular sections from adult female C57BL/6J mice were incubated in normoglycemic (NG, 5mM) or hyperglycemic (30 mM or 50 mM) conditions in the presence or absence of selective estrogen receptor (ER) agonists (ERα /PPT or ERβ: DPN); or non-selective sex hormone receptor antagonists (ER/ICI 182,780, or progesterone receptor (PR)/ RU486) for 48 hours. mRNA, protein expression and nitrergic relaxation of circular gastric neuromuscular strips were assessed. Results: Our findings in HG, compared to NG, demonstrate a significant reduction in ER, Nrf2, and nNOS expression in gastric specimens. In addition, in-vitro treatment with sex hormones and/or their agonists significantly (*p<0.05) restored Nrf2/nNOSα expression and total nitrite production. Conversely, ER, but not PR, antagonist significantly reduced Nrf2/nNOSα expression and nitrergic relaxation. Conclusions: Our data suggest that ER’s can regulate nitrergic function by improving Nrf2/nNOS expression in experimental hyperglycemia.
Determinants of early postnatal care attendance: analysis of the 2016 Uganda Demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Ndugga Patricia , Namiyonga Noor Kassim , Sebuwufu Deogratious
Published: February 2020

Background
The first two days after childbirth present the highest risk of dying for a mother. Providing postnatal care within the first two days after childbirth can help avert maternal mortality because it allows early detection of problems that could result in adverse maternal health outcomes. Unfortunately, knowledge of the uptake of early postnatal care (EPNC), which is imperative for informing policies aimed at reducing maternal mortality, remains low in Uganda. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate the determinants of early postnatal care attendance among Ugandan women.
Methods
This study was based on nationally representative data from the 2016 Uganda Demographic and Health Survey. The study sample comprised 5,471 women (age 15–49) who delivered a child in the 2 years preceding the survey. We used logistic regression to identify factors associated with the use of early postnatal care.
Results
Our findings showed that 50% of mothers used EPNC services for their most recent delivery in the 2 years preceding the survey. Women’s residence, education level, religion, wealth status, marital status, occupation, antenatal care attendance, place of delivery, birth order, perceived accessibility of health facilities, and access to mass media messages were associated with greater use of EPNC. The percentage of women receiving EPNC was much higher among women who delivered at a health facility, either a public facility (63%) or private facility (65%), versus only 9% among women who delivered at home. Multivariate analysis showed that delivery at a health facility was the most important determinant of early postnatal care attendance.
Conclusions
To increase mothers’ use of EPNC services and improve maternal survival in Uganda, programs could promote and strengthen health facility delivery and ensure that EPNC services are provided to all women before discharge. Even so, the fact that only about two-thirds of women who delivered at a health facility received early postpartum care shows substantial room for improvement.
Key words Early postnatal care, Uganda, Demographic and Health Survey, place of delivery