bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local and Global Gas Metallicity versus Stellar Age Relation in MaNGA Galaxies
Authors: Sánchez-Menguiano Laura , Almeida Jorge Sánchez , Muñoz-Tuñón Casiana , Sánchez Sebastián F.
Published: November 2020

The search for new global scaling relations linking the physical properties of galaxies has a fundamental interest. Furthermore, their recovery from spatially resolved relations has been in the spotlight of integral field spectroscopy (IFS). In this study, we investigate the existence of global and local relations between stellar age (Age⋆) and gas-phase metallicity (Z

g
). To this aim, we analyze IFS data for a sample of 736 star-forming disk galaxies from the MaNGA survey. We report a positive correlation between the global Z

g
and D(4000) (an indicator of stellar age), with a slope that decreases with increasing galaxy mass. Locally, a similar trend is found when analyzing the Z

g
and D(4000) of the star-forming regions, as well as the residuals resulting from removing the radial gradients of both parameters. The local laws have systematically smaller slopes than the global one. We ascribe this difference to random errors that cause the true slope of the Age⋆–Z

g
relation to be systematically underestimated when performing a least-squares fitting. The explored relation is intimately linked with the already known relation between gas metallicity and star formation rate at fixed mass, both presenting a common physical origin.
FIRST Winged Radio Galaxies with X and Z Symmetry
Authors: Bera Soumen , Pal Sabyasachi , Sasmal Tapan K. , Mondal Soumen
Published: November 2020

X-shaped radio galaxies (XRGs) are a subclass of radio sources that exhibit a pair of secondary low surface brightness radio lobes oriented at an angle to the primary high surface brightness lobes. Sometimes, the secondary low brightened lobes emerge from the edges of the primary high brightened lobes and form a Z-symmetric morphology. We present a systematical search result for XRGs and Z-shaped radio galaxies (ZRGs) from the VLA Faint Images of the Radio Sky at Twenty-Centimeters (VLA FIRST) Survey at 1.4 GHz. Our search yields a total of 296 number of radio sources, out of which 161 are XRGs and 135 are ZRGs. We have also made optical identification of these sources from the different available literature. J1124 + 4325 and J1319 + 0502 are the farthest known XRG and ZRG, respectively. We have estimated spectral index and radio luminosity of these radio sources and made a comparative study with previously detected XRGs and ZRGs. The average value of luminosities for XRGs is higher than that of ZRGs. With the help of a large sample size of the newly discovered XRGs and ZRGs, various statistical properties of these sources are studied. Out of 161 XRGs presented in the current paper, 70% (113) are FR II radio galaxies and 13% (20) are FR I radio galaxies. For 28 XRGs, the morphology is complex and could not be classified. For XRGs, the statistical studies are done on the angle between the major axis and minor axis and the relative size of the major and minor axes. For the ZRGs a statistical study is done on the angular size.
Egg proteomic characterization of Seriola rivoliana in captivity
Authors: Serrano-Pinto Vania , Bernay Benoit , Moreno-Legorreta Manuel , Ortega-Rubio Alfredo , Maldonado-García Minerva
Published: November 2020

Continuous and sustained production of good quality eggs and larvae is required to have economically viable and ecologically sustainable rearing of Seriola rivoliana. Nonetheless, the complete production cycle of these species has been challenging to achieve due to high mortality during embryonic and larval stages. The objective of the project was to study the expression of the proteins involved in the embryonic process of almaco jack. Proteomic characterization of fertilized eggs was performed using two-dimensional electrophoresis and mass spectrometry. Different vitellogenin proteins A, B, C and Ab, β-actin, peroxiredoxin, superoxide dismutase 1, alpha subunit proteasome, and keratin II were identified to their functions related to embryonic development, energy metabolism, protein synthesis, cell structure, cytoskeleton, and antioxidant proteins with defense enzymatic activity.
New record of Anthopleura radians Spano & Häussermann, 2017 (Cnidaria: Actiniaria: Actiniidae) from the Mexican Pacific
Authors: Vassallo-Avalos Aurora , Acuña Fabián H , González-Muñoz Ricardo , Rivas Gerardo
Published: November 2020

As part of a biodiversity study on intertidal invertebrates, several sea anemones from the west coast of the Baja California Peninsula were collected in June 2016. The taxonomic features of four specimens agree well with those of the species Anthopleura radians, a recently described sea anemone from northern Chile. This study is the first published report on this species outside the range of distribution documented in the original description, including new images of A. radians’ external and internal features and complete characterization of their cnidae. Differences between A. radians from other species of the genus reported from the eastern Pacific are also discussed.
Trace metal concentrations and body condition in adult Adélie penguins (Pygoscelis adeliae) from the western Antarctic Peninsula
Authors: Espejo Winfred , Ferreira Braz Bernardo , Santelli Ricardo , Padilha Janeide de A. , Dorneles Paulo , Malm Olaf , Celis Christopher A. , Celis José E.
Published: November 2020

Adélie penguins (Pygoscelis adeliae) are seabirds that live exclusively in Antarctica, one of the planet's last pristine areas. However, this remote region is experiencing a continuing expansion of human activities that may affect Antarctic fauna. Trace metals constitute a menace to seabirds because they can adversely affect their health. There is a lack of studies relating to metals' levels in feathers with morphological parameters of seabirds. Trace metal levels were measured in Adélie penguin feathers and their body condition through the relative condition factor (ReCF) in adult individuals from two South Shetland Islands locations and two from Graham Land. Consequently, we determined the levels of some metals in feathers to see any relationship with morphological parameters linked to the bird's health. Our results showed significant differences in metals among locations studied and a significant relationship between ReCF with Cu and Zn in one of the South Shetland Islands. Also, penguins exhibited a significantly lower weight. We found a positive correlation between non-essential with essential metals, indicating that Cu acts as a detoxifying agent for Cr, Cd, and Pb. In contrast, Se could be for V and Pb. Although the relationship between most metals with ReCF was not significant, some site-specific factors may be influencing it, whereas metals may be affecting the organisms at low biological levels. Molecular, biochemical, and genetic studies are required to elucidate this issue.
Isolation of actinomycetes from Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) cultivated in semi-intensive systems from Morelos, Mexico central zone
Authors: Parra-Laca Rocio , Hernández-Andrade Laura , García-Espinosa Gary , Loza-Rubio Elizabeth
Published: November 2020

The production of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) has good technological development; however, today, it is still necessary to make it more efficient. One way to increase efficiency is to prevent disease and improve the food conversion factor. Since previous investigations of tilapia microbiota detected a high proportion of organisms belonging to the order Actinomycetes, this study was to isolate, identify, and describe the species of bacteria microbiota belonging to the cultured Nile tilapia. These were done with Nile tilapia grown in a warm sub-humid climate during spring and summer seasons. The biopsy of different organs was performed for bacteriological culture and 16S rRNA sequencing analysis. From the 180 tissue samples, 49 isolates of the order Actinomycetes were obtained, representing ten species from seven genera: Microbacterium, Brevibacterium, Cellulomonas, Corynebacterium, Kocuria, Actinomyces, and Micrococcus. In spring, Microbacterium dominated, accounting for 74% of the total population. In the summer, lower diversity was observed, with 39% represented by Microbacterium. 16S rRNA sequencing analysis enabled the classification of Actinomyces neuii and Microbacterium lacticum as Kocuria varians and Agromyces indicus; the classification of Microbacterium imperiale as Rhodococcus and Micrococcus luteus was confirmed. No sequences of K. varians have been reported in fish. Microbacterium dextranoliticum showed high similarity to environmental samples. Here is the first study that analyzes the bacteria population in tilapia at the genetic level with an ecosystem approach, present in healthy cultured tilapia, indicating their beneficial associations with the host, making them candidates as probiotics, among other possible functions, applicable in tilapia cultivation.
Zooplankton abundance during summer in the Bay of La Paz (southwestern Gulf of California, Mexico)
Authors: Coria-Monter Erik , Monreal-Gómez María Adela , Salas de León David Alberto , Durán-Campos Elizabeth
Published: November 2020

Marine zooplankton play key roles in the transfer of energy to higher trophic levels and the removal of CO2 from the atmosphere through the sedimentation of inorganic and organic carbon compounds included in their fecal pellets. Therefore, differences in the zooplankton groups driven by climate variations could influence the biogeochemical cycles at large oceanic scales. As a contribution to this topic, we analyzed the zooplankton groups in the Bay of La Paz, Gulf of California, Mexico, a highly dynamic basin characterized by its high biological productivity. We used information gathered during multidisciplinary research cruises in the summers of 2008 and 2009. The results showed differences in the hydrographic parameters between both summers, with a higher temperature recorded in 2009. The zooplankton groups showed that the calanoid copepods were the most abundant; however, there were important differences in the relative abundance of the rest of the analyzed groups as an effect of the temperature distribution along the study area, which was confirmed by multivariate statistical methods. These temperature changes were associated with increased gelatinous zooplankton (Cnidaria, Chaetognatha, Appendicularia, and Ctenophora) in 2009 in a region where the temperature was higher, possibly as a result of changes in food (phytoplankton) availability.
Stocking density and its influence on the productivity of red cusk eel, Genypterus chilensis (Guichenot, 1848), in shallow raceways
Authors: Foss Atle , Imsland Albert K.D. , Briceño Felipe A. , Magnolfi Spartaco , Magnolfi Piero , Gutiérrez Xavier
Published: November 2020

We compared the growth properties of red cusk eel Genypterus chilensis with initial mean weight ± standard error, 106.2 ± 6.1 g reared in shallow raceways at three different stocking densities (28.5, 46.1, and 60.7 kg m-3) in a 226-day long growth trial at a constant temperature of 17°C. There was a trend towards higher specific growth rates at the highest density. Final mean weights were 333 ± 12, 352 ± 12, and 354 ± 15 g, at the 30, 45, and 60 kg m-3 density, respectively. Overall, the growth rates were higher in the 60 kg m-3 density group than the two other density groups. The daily feeding intake (%) was higher in the medium (0.51), and high (0.55) density groups compared the low-density group (0.45). Feed conversion efficiency (FCE) did not differ between the density groups. A significant size rank correlation was maintained in all density groups throughout the study. Calculated productivity increased almost linearly with increasing stocking density and was found to be 32, 34, and 39 g m-2 d-1 at 30, 45, and 60 kg m-3, respectively. The results show that the optimum density conditions for farming juvenile red cusk eel, both concerning growth rate, feed conversion, and productivity is at densities equal to or higher than 60 kg m-3.
First record of Zhangixalus franki Ninh, Nguyen, Orlov, Nguyen & Ziegler, 2020 (Anura, Rhacophoridae) from China
Authors: Liu Shuo , Hui Hong , Rao Dingqi
Published: November 2020

We record Zhangixalus franki Li, Jiang, Ren & Jiang, 2019 for the first time from China based on two specimens collected from Laoshan Nature Reserve, Yunnan Province. Morphologically, the newly collected specimens from China mostly agree with the type series from Vietnam. Phylogenetically, these individuals were placed in a clade with Z. franki from Vietnam based on DNA sequences of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene. Our finding brings the species number of the genus Zhangixalus to 29 in China.
Scaling of organ masses in mammals and birds: phylogenetic signal and implications for metabolic rate scaling
Authors: Antoł Andrzej , Kozłowski Jan
Published: November 2020

The persistent enigma of why the whole-body metabolic rate increases hypoallometrically with body mass should be solved on both the ultimate and proximate levels. The proximate mechanism may involve hyperallometric scaling of metabolically inert tissue/organ masses, hypoallometric scaling of metabolically expensive organ masses, a decrease in mass-specific metabolic rates of organs or a combination of these three factors. Although there are literature data on the tissue/organ masses scaling, they do not consider phylogenetic information. Here, we analyse the scaling of tissue/organ masses in a sample of 100 mammalian and 22 bird species with a phylogenetically informed method (PGLS) to address two questions: the role of phylogenetic differences in organ/tissue size scaling and the potential role of organ/tissue mass scaling in interspecific metabolic rate scaling. Strong phylogenetic signal was found for the brain, kidney, spleen and stomach mass in mammals but only for the brain and leg muscle in birds. Metabolically relatively inert adipose tissue scales isometrically in both groups. The masses of energetically expensive visceral organs scale hypoallometrically in mammals, with the exception of lungs, with the lowest exponent for the brain. In contrast, only brain mass scales hypoallometrically in birds, whereas other tissues and organs scale isometrically or almost isometrically. Considering that the whole-body metabolic rate scales more steeply in mammals than in birds, the mass-specific metabolic rate of visceral organs must decrease with body mass much faster in birds than in mammals. In general, studying whole-body metabolic rate is not adequate for explaining its scaling, and measuring metabolic rates of organs, together with their contribution to body mass, is urgently required.
Altered retina and cornea of Clarias gariepinus (Siluriformes: Clariidae) under the effect of bright and dim lights
Authors: Sabry Dalia A. , El-Badry Dina
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of constant bright light on the cornea and retina of Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822) and to examine whether it can change after constant exposure to dim light. Twenty-one adult individuals of C. gariepinus were divided into three groups (n = 7). The first group was maintained under normal light (NL). The second group was exposed to the intense bright light (BL) (3020 Lux) of white light lamps for seven days. The third group was exposed to dim light for seven days (DL) following the previous exposure to intense bright light for seven days. The eyes of each fish group were removed and fixed. The following aspects of the eye were investigated: histopathological, immunohistochemical (GFAP and BAX) staining and biochemical study for lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) and glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase (G6PDH). Also, isoenzyme electrophoresis of LDH, G6PDH and SOD were performed. The present study found that, seven-days BL exposure caused damage to both cornea and retina. However, after exposure to dim-light after bright light there was partial improvement in corneal and retinal structure and an increase in the assayed SOD and G6PDH levels, along with a reduction in MDA content and activity of LDH. These findings demonstrate a plasticity that may help C. gariepinus survive disturbances in the aquatic environment.
New Luxury vs. Old Luxury
Authors: Rodrigues Paula , Borges Ana Pinto
Published: November 2020

Understanding the concept of luxury and knowing what luxury means is still necessary and pertinent research because the definition of what luxury is has not proved to be consensual, and those that exist leave out the understanding of how fragmented meanings of today's society appear and influence consumers' perceptions of luxury. While the terms of new and old luxury have gained popularity in the literature, there remains little empirical research comparing consumers' perceptions of new and old luxury brands. Therefore, it can be said that previous research on luxury contributes to improvements under the point of view centred on the product of the meaning of luxury while the current era of popularization and democratization of luxury causes confusion and, what luxury means today, remains unclear. This research intends, through an extensive literature review, to clarify the main differences between the concepts of new and old luxury brands.
Zika Virus–Infected Decidual Cells Elicit a Gestational Age–Dependent Innate Immune Response and Exaggerate Trophoblast Zika Permissiveness: Implication for Vertical Transmission
Authors: Guzeloglu-Kayisli Ozlem , Guo Xiaofang , Tang Zhonghua , Semerci Nihan , Ozmen Asli , Larsen Kellie , Mutluay Duygu , Guller Seth , Schatz Frederick , Kayisli Umit Ali , Lockwood Charles Joseph
Published: November 2020

Vertical transmission of the Zika virus (ZIKV) causes severe fetal defects, but the exact pathogenic mechanism is unclear. We identified up to a 10,480-fold higher expression of viral attachment factors AXL, GAS6, and PROS1 and a 3880-fold increase in ZIKV infectiousness/propagation in human term decidual stromal cells versus trophoblasts. Moreover, levels of viral attachment factors and ZIKV are significantly increased, whereas expression of innate immune response genes are significantly decreased, in human first trimester versus term decidual cells. ZIKV-infected decidual cell supernatants increased cytotrophoblasts infection up to 252-fold compared with directly infected cytotrophoblasts. Tizoxanide treatment efficiently inhibited Zika infection in both maternal and fetal cells. We conclude that ZIKV permissiveness, as well as innate immune responsiveness of human decidual cells, are gestational age dependent, and decidual cells augment ZIKV infection of primary human cytotrophoblast cultures, which are otherwise ZIKV resistant. Human decidual cells may act as reservoirs for trimester-dependent placental transmission of ZIKV, accounting for the higher Zika infection susceptibility and more severe fetal sequelae observed in early versus late pregnancy. Moreover, tizoxanide is a promising agent in preventing perinatal Zika transmission as well as other RNA viruses such as coronavirus.
Snapshot on physicians’ view on safe blood transfusion in multiply transfused patients in Nigeria
Authors: Efobi Chilota C. , Ugwu Angela O. , Obi Esther I. , Ossai Edmund N. , Ocheni Sunday
Published: November 2020

Background:

Multiply transfused patients (MTPs) are often at risk of alloimmunization and other transfusion-associated complications. These complications could be ameliorated through extended blood typing prior to transfusion of blood and blood products.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge and practice of safe blood transfusion in MTPs by physicians.

Materials and Methods:

This was a cross-sectional questionnaire-based study of physicians who attended a scientific conference of the West Africa College of Physicians in Asaba, Delta State.

Result:

Most of the respondents (68%) managed patients requiring multiple blood transfusions. Forty-seven respondents (68.1%) had a blood transfusion policy for MTPs in their respective centers, and 43 (68.1%) had no transfusion trigger hemoglobin level in their respective health facilities. Respondents who had a blood transfusion policy in their centers had a better knowledge of safe blood transfusion than those that did not, P = 0.008. None of the respondents reported carrying out antibody screening before and after multiply transfusing the patients. Although 100% performed initial screening for transfusion transmissible infections (TTIs), only 11.6% repeated screening for TTIs annually.

Conclusion:

Practice of safe blood transfusion in MTPs was found to be poor among physicians in Nigeria. Hospitals and training institutions should design ways to update knowledge of physicians on safe blood transfusion especially in MTPs and by so doing optimize safe blood transfusion practices, so as to improve the quality of life of patients.
The Inverse Care Law
Authors: Etokidem Aniekan , Ogaji Daprim
Published: November 2020

Background:

The inverse care law states that the availability of good healthcare tends to vary inversely with the need for it in the population served. This situation is easily observable in developing countries like Nigeria, and poses a threat to the attainment of universal health coverage (UHC) in rural communities.

Objective:

To examine how the inverse care law plays out in the Nigerian healthcare system, and how this may lead to a difficulty in achieving UHC in rural communities.

Materials and Methods:

Standard procedures were used in locating, selecting, extracting and synthesizing data. Electronic databases and internet resources such as PubMed, Google Scholar, SCOPUS and Web of Science were searched. Selection of studies was conducted by a two-stage process. Data extraction was done using data extraction forms. During data synthesis, major themes, strengths, weaknesses and critical gaps in each paper were identified.

Results:

There are several factors that boost the operation of the inverse care law in the Nigerian healthcare system. How this poses a threat to the attainment of UHC has also been documented. Among these are limitations in the range of services provided in rural healthcare facilities, inadequate production and maldistribution of health personnel, and low health manpower retention in rural areas.

Conclusion:

There is a need for concerted efforts by the government to address the factors that facilitate the inverse care law in the Nigerian healthcare system. This is necessary for the attainment of UHC specifically and the Sustainable Development Goal number three generally.
The Municipal Rights of Disposal over the Territory and its Governmental Restrictions in Hungary
Authors: Cseh Kristóf Balázs , Fazekas János
Published: November 2020

The centralization process in Hungary affects the local governments too. From 2010, they face weakening of their competencies and taking away of their task and with it, restrictions of their rights in some aspects. This paper aims to explore one aspect of the restriction, the changing of ownership of their task-bound assets with legislative means. To show the process, two cases of such restriction will be examined, both affecting the capital of Hungary, Budapest and both being symbolic project for the Government and the municipalities too.
Supporting and Non-supporting Entities of the Mayor in Polish Municipalities with Cohabitation
Authors: Sidor Monika Barbara , Kuć-Czajkowska Katarzyna , Wasil Justyna
Published: November 2020

In the present legal state, the mayor is an important political leader in Polish municipalities. On account of being elected in direct elections and enjoying a broad range of powers, he/she is a natural local leader. Another municipal authority is the council, which fulfills decision-making and supervisory functions. Whether the mayor can effectively act depends on the outcome of elections and, in consequence, the council’s composition. Elections may lead to the phenomenon of cohabitation. This occurs when the mayor does not have the support of an absolute majority in the council or represents the opposite political camp to the members of the municipal council. Taking into account 1,737 questionnaires and 74 interviews, it turns out that mayors do not operate in a political and administrative vacuum. Even if they make decisions on their own, they need internal (councilors, local government employees) and external (entrepreneurs, representatives of NGOs, the Catholic Church, political parties) help.
Local Government Financial Condition – Small Towns Versus Large Cities in Poland
Authors: Czupich Mariusz
Published: November 2020

The development of local government units is determined by many factors. The most important is the financial condition, which determines the possibilities of the effective implementation of tasks, both current and as an investment. In the face of an unstable macroeconomic environment, as well as growing expectations of residents regarding the improvement of living standards, local government finance management takes place under conditions of strong pressure and great uncertainty. Therefore, a rational budget policy is a prerequisite for achieving the approved development goals. It should be based on greater control of the performance and discipline in the use of budget funds. The purpose of this article is to assess and compare the financial situation of small towns and large cities in Poland in 2012-2018. The study used budget indicators in the areas of revenues, operating surplus and indebtedness. The study made it possible to draw conclusions regarding the development opportunities of Polish cities.
Social Entrepreneurship and Development of Local Self-Governments – Evidence from Montenegro
Authors: Melović Boban , Radević Ivan , Backović-Vulić Tamara , Haček Miro
Published: November 2020

Main aim of the paper is to investigate the correlation between social entrepreneurship and development of local self-governments, in order to effectively and efficiently steer the potential of this form of entrepreneurship towards greater inclusion of socially vulnerable groups and improved development of local self-governments. Authors have developed a conceptual model that investigates the effects of social entrepreneurship on self-government development, as well as the impacts of self-government development on the perception and attitudes towards this type of entrepreneurship. The research results show that the respondents think that activities of social entrepreneurship have a positive influence on the development of local self-government; they also believe that main barriers to stronger development of social entrepreneurship in local self-governments are vague status of social enterprises, poor access to funding and a general lack of entrepreneurial spirit. The results provide an important contribution to policy makers to identify and understand the link between the development of social entrepreneurship and local self-governments.
Participatory Budgeting in Serbia: Lessons Learnt from Pilot Projects
Authors: Milosavljević Miloš , Spasenić Željko , Benković Slađana , Dmitrović Veljko
Published: November 2020

Participatory budgeting has been advocated as a democratic innovation that could bring governance closer to citizens. A myriad of European countries have embraced this idea and piloted participatory budgeting projects at the local level. In Serbia, however, democratic innovations are at the infantile stage. Only a handful of participatory budgeting projects have been initiated so far. The aim of this paper is to present the main lessons learnt from these projects and to present participatory budgeting as a citizen-centric and fiscally decentralized approach to public financial planning and execution. Using the mix-method, participatory budgeting projects and programs in three local government units in Serbia were analyzed. The results indicate political will of only a handful of Serbian local self-governments to implement participatory budgeting and limited sustainability of the concept of democratic innovation.
A Primary Care Provider’s Guide to Spasticity Management in Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Cabahug Philippines , Pickard Charles , Edmiston Travis , Lieberman Jesse A.
Published: November 2020

Background: Muscle spasticity is a common sequela of spinal cord injury (SCI) that may impact daily function. Spasticity dynamically varies and is an important physiologic response to illness or other stressors. The challenge for the general practitioner is in recognizing, treating, and developing an effective plan focused on the patient’s individual goals. Objective: To provide the general practitioner with a basic contextual, diagnostic, and therapeutic approach to spasticity management for individuals with neurologic injury such as SCI. Discussion: Muscle spasticity can be disabling and can be managed effectively by using a comprehensive approach. We discuss a representative case and the assessment and planning for individuals with SCI and spasticity. Through an understanding of pathophysiology, careful history taking, and physical exam, a cause for increased spasticity can be identified, such as infection, constipation, or pregnancy. Symptomatology of these triggers is often quite different in the SCI population than in the general population. Management includes the treatment of this causative stressor as well as the thoughtful management of spasticity itself. Conclusion: Muscle spasticity is dynamic and requires a patient-centered approach. The general practitioner can play a key role in recognizing and treating spasticity in an individual with SCI. Comprehensive management to meet patient and caregiver goals involves primary care providers, specialists, and allied health practitioners.
A Primary Care Provider’s Guide to Diet and Nutrition After Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Gater David R. , Bauman Craig , Cowan Rachel
Published: November 2020

Physiological changes that occur after spinal cord injury (SCI) are profound and affect almost every organ system in the human body. Energy balance is significantly altered due to motor paralysis, spasticity or flaccidity, neurogenic sarcopenia, neurogenic osteopenia, sympathetic nervous system disruption, and blunted anabolism. Energy expenditure is markedly reduced, whereas hypothalamic control of appetite and satiety is diminished, resulting in discordant energy intake. Ultimately, neurogenic obesity ensues as the result of a positive energy balance. Even though nutritional guidelines for persons with SCI have been available since 2009, the necessity for body composition assessment and total daily energy expenditure was insufficiently addressed such that most individuals with SCI continued in positive energy balance despite “adherence” to the guidelines. Macronutrients must be carefully assessed to optimize caloric intake, while micronutrient consumption may need to be supplemented in order to meet recommended daily allowances. Such a diet would emphasize foods with low caloric yet high nutrient density. This article reviews current literature regarding nutritional requirements for SCI and provides a straightforward plan for implementing more rigorous dietary interventions meant to address the obesity crisis in this especially vulnerable population.
Problematizing Immigration Restrictions during COVID-19 in the Social Studies Classroom
Authors: McCorkle William David
Published: November 2020

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected almost every corner of the globe, nations largely closed their borders and restricted or completely halted immigration. This stance, while understandable, raises questions about how ideas of inclusivity and immigrant rights can be maintained in the midst of chaos and insecurity. This article based in the framework of critical border and migration studies provides an overview of the evolution of immigration policies during the crisis and examines how social studies teachers can problematize assumptions of restrictive immigration policies during times of uncertainty and connect the current situation with past times of crisis. Though this is relevant to teachers from all countries, there is a particular focus on the United States context. Central to the argument is that the ideals of a more open and inclusive immigration system must be maintained even during times of fear and panic. This work builds upon pedagogical scholarship on immigration in the social studies classroom while applying these ideas to the problematic and unique circumstances of immigration during a pandemic.
Measuring Rural P-12 Teachers’ Attitudes, Perceptions, and Utilizations of Social Media
Authors: Waters Stewart , Hensley Matt
Published: November 2020

Social media continues to evolve and change the way people interact, learn, and communicate. As social media continues to grow in importance within societies, it is critical to better understand how teachers view social media as an educational resource. This quantitative study examines the general attitudes, perceptions, and utilizations of social media among P-12 teachers in a rural school district. Findings indicate that most teachers view social media as a high risk proposition for student use in the classroom, but do see social media as potentially useful and relevant to learning in the P-12 classroom.
PHYSICAL MODEL OF NATURAL COASTAL PROTECTION SYSTEM: GEOBAG-DYKE PERFORMANCE TO EFFECTIVENESS OF NATURAL COASTAL PROTECTION SYSTEM
Authors:   Institut Teknologi Bandung, YUANITA NITA , KURNIAWAN ALAMSYAH , AL HAKIM MUHAMMAD LUQMAN , IRAWAN KRISNA REYNALDI , SAPUTRA NOVIANTO WONO
Published: November 2020

One of the potential hazards that can cause major problems in coastal areas is erosion. In order to solve this problem, the notion of sustainable coastal development has garnered growing attention around the world. Coastal zone management mechanisms aim to ensure the sustainability of resources and the environment. For example, natural coastal protection using vegetation such as mangrove trees is currently preferred in many places in the world. However, there are challenges in the development of this natural form of coastal protection, e.g. mangrove seedling trees can be damaged by the waves or the current before they grow strong enough, and thus require appropriate protection until at least two years after planting. To solve this problem, a natural coastal protection system that combines a main natural protection and a temporary man-made structure is proposed. After a process of weighing temporary man-made-structure alternatives, the geobag dyke was selected. This study aimed to quantify the effects of various geobag dyke configurations and geobag unit weights on wave height reduction. Laboratory experiments were conducted on a narrow wave flume using a mangrove model as main natural protection and geotextilegeobag models as temporary man-made structures. Various wave conditions were generated during the laboratory tests. This paper focuses on the experimental results of wave transmission through the protection system in order to determine the most effective geobag dyke configuration to reduce the wave height. Based on experimental modelling, the most effective geobag dyke configuration uses relatively heavy geobag units with a moderate dyke slope (1:1.5).
SHORT COMMUNICATION WING SHAPE VARIATIONS OF MALAYSIAN FORENSIC SCUTTLE FLIES (DIPTERA: PHORIDAE) INCLUDE SEXUAL DIMORPHISMS
Authors:   Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, ANTHONY JULIANA KRISTINE , DISNEY HENRY , RAJA MUHAMMAD ZUHA* RAJA MUHAMMAD ZUHA*
Published: November 2020

Geometric morphometric analysis recently has expanded to insects of forensic importance, mainly adult flies, as correct and valid species identification is important in forensic entomology. The objective of this research was to investigate morphological variations between two forensically important scuttle flies (Diptera: Phoridae) in Malaysia, i.e. Megaselia scalaris (Loew, 1866) and Megaselia spiracularis Schmitz, 1938, based on wing shape analysis. A total of 16 geometrical landmarks was defined and analysed with geometric morphometric procedures using MorphoJ software. Wing centroid size, which represented wing shape, was statistically different between species and sexes. By using residuals from the allometric effect, canonical variate analysis separated all defined groups in different distinct clusters and further cross validated by both species and sexes. Between species, male M. scalaris had broader wing shape than male M. spiracularis, whilst in the female, M. scalaris had a narrower shape at the tip of the wing. Within M. scalaris group, females had broader wing shape at the base than males, whereas in M. spiracularis, the females had narrower shape at the base of the wing than the males. The geometric morphometric analysis in distinguishing forensically important species could be expanded for further investigation, especially in Phoridae family.
ANTHROPOGENIC MARINE DEBRIS ACCUMULATION IN MANGROVES ON PENANG ISLAND, MALAYSIA
Authors:   Universiti Sains Malaysia, CHEE SU YI , YEE JEAN CHAI YEE JEAN CHAI , DANIELLE CAREY , YUSRI YUSUP , BARRY GALLAGHER JOHN
Published: November 2020

Knowledge on anthropogenic marine debris (AMD) distribution and accumulation dynamics in mangroves is limited. To address this shortfall, abundance, sorting, and diversity parameters of AMD were evaluated in Penang’s urban and peri-urban mangroves. Debris were counted and classified across transects parallel to the coastline at progressively higher water marks. Plastic percentages make most of the AMD across all sites. More AMD were retained in the urban sites, consistent with larger population density. Diversity of debris was consistent with land use and livelihood of the population in each area. The greatest differences in abundance, diversity, and evenness were recorded between the lower intertidal zones and the remaining inner transects consistent with sorting towards the coastal edge in favour of plastic items. Differences across transects and sites suggested: 1) the main body of the mangrove efficiently retained debris with little sorting; and 2) debris deposited closer to the edge are increasingly sorted and lost to the water body in favour of smaller plastic items. The findings show that mangroves are vulnerable to accumulation and retention of potentially harmful debris, with evidence of a less efficient retention and selective sorting of materials back to the water body closer to their coastal edges.
PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY THROUGH CAR USE REDUCTION: THE IMPORTANCE OF SITUATIONAL FACTORS
Authors:   Malaysia University of Science and Technology, YAKEEN FATAI , GHADIRI SEYED MOHAMMADREZA , TORKAN RIZA
Published: November 2020

Rising car ownership and use worldwide is in several respects a threat to the environment. Transport researchers and policymakers have suggested and implemented policy measures to reduce car use and encouraged pro-environmental travel behaviour. The success or failure of these policies depends on a robust understanding of the factors influencing car use behaviour and most importantly situational factors facilitating car use. A sound understanding of the situational factors is the key to the effectiveness and success of car use reduction policies. This study examines the importance of car use facilitating situational factors in the promotion of sustainable mobility in urban areas. Data were obtained in a cross-sectional survey of 691 motorists in Lagos, Nigeria through purposive sampling technique, while the data analysis was done using partial least square structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The results indicated car access, time pressure and car use intention contributed 43% explained variance in car use behaviour. Car access had the largest direct effect on car use behaviour, followed by time pressure. Considering all the constructs in the model, car use intention was responsible for most of the variation in car use behaviour. The implications of the results from this study regarding the promotion of sustainable transportation and car use reduction are discussed.
Nilai Gizi Dan Daya Terima Es Krim Modisco Susu Kedelai Dengan Penambahan Buah Untuk Penanganan Anak Gizi Buruk
Authors: Kumala Findy Dwita , Setyaningsih Sulasyi , Ratnasari Diah
Published: November 2020

Modisco (Modified Diet Skim Milks Sugar Cotton Seed) merupakan minuman tinggi energi 135 kalori untuk penanganan gizi buruk fase rehabilitasi sebagai pengganti formula WHO.Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh penambahan buah terhadap nilai gizi dan daya terima es krim. Penelitian ini menggunakan rancangan acak lengkap dengan 3 kali pengulangan. Perlakuan yang dilakukan dalam penelitian ini yaitu penambahan buah yang berbeda seperti strowberry, pisang dan alpukat. Pengujian yang dilakukan yaitu . energi, protein, lemak, kalium dan magnesium. Data kalium dan magnesium dianalisis menggunakan Anova. Pengujian daya terima dengan metode hedonik dan dianalisis menggunakan Repeated Measure.Hasil penelitian ini adalah Zat gizi per 100 gram es krim energi berkisar antara 135,28 sampai 140,98 kalori, protein 3,53 sampai 3,57 gram, lemak 107 sampai 110,9 gram. Kadar kalium rata-rata antara 1604,06 sampai 1765,3 ppm dan kadar magnesium rata-rata antara 116,1 sampai 253,8 ppm. Penambahan buah meningkatkan kesukaan dari segi warna, aroma, rasa dan tekstur, secara nyata penambahan buah yang paling disukai adalah pisang. Penelitian ini dapat disimpulkan bahwa Nilai gizi es krim modisco dengan penambahan buah (pisang, alpukat dan strawberi) memiliki nilai energi, protein, lemak yang melebihi standar modisco. Penambahan buah pisang dipilih karena memiliki nilai gizi yang tinggi dan daya terima paling disukai.
Uji Antioksidan Sediaan Stick Balm Ekstrak Daun Rhizophora Mucronata Dengan Metode Dpph
Authors: Faiqoh Maziyatul , Utami Tri Fitri Yana , Pertiwi Yuniariana
Published: November 2020

Daun mangrove (Rhizophora mucronata) mengandung senyawa karotenoid yang merupakan senyawa poliena isoprenoid yang bersifat lipofilik, mudah diisomerisasi dan dioksidasi, menyerap cahaya, meredam oksigen, memblok reaksi radikal bebas dan dapat berikatan dengan permukaan hidrofobik. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui aktivitas antioksidan ekstrak metanol daun mangrove (Rhizophora mucronata) setelah dalam bentuk sediaan Stick balm. Metode ekstraksi dalam penelitian ini yaitu maserasi dan partisi. Hasil skrining fitokimia sebelum partisi ekstrak metanol daun mangrove (Rhizophora mucronata) mengandung alkaloid,flavonoid, steroid, terpenoid, saponin, dan tanin, sedangkan setelah partisi mengandung steroid, terpenoid, saponin, dan tanin. Hasil analisis panjang gelombang maksimal adalah 415 nm. Sediaan Stick balm dilakukan evaluasi mutu fisik berupa uji homogenitas, uji suhu lebur, uji pH, dan uji stabilitas. Hasil pengujian menunukkan bahwa ketiga formula sediaan homogen, memiliki nilai suhu lebur 58oC, memiliki nilai pH 5 dan stabil pada suhu 40oC dengan tidak menunjukkan adanya perubahan dari sisi organoleptis. Pengujian aktivitas antioksidan dilakukan dengan metode DPPH. Hasil nilai IC50 yang diperoleh untuk formula 1, formula 2, dan formula 3 berturut-turut adalah 57,40 ppm, 57,14 ppm,da 77,32 ppm. Hasil tersebut menunjukkan bahwa ketiga formula termasuk kedalam kategori antioksidan kuat. Sediaan Stick balm dilakukan uji iritasi dengan hasil bahwa sediaan tidak menimbulkan iritasi.
Towards an Analytical Framework to Benchmark the Performance of Urban Drinking Water Supply
Authors: Kebede Debela Bacha , Troupin Steve
Published: November 2020

This paper aims at identifying strategies to improve the performance of Ethiopian local governments in supplying drinking water. Therefore, a case study of Ambo (Ethiopia) is performed, on basis of document analysis, interview and focus group discussion. This allows operationalizing Pollitt and Bouckaert’s (2011) production process model, by defining input, activity, output and outcome indicators relevant for drinking water supply in the context of developing countries. The indicators and their interrelations subsequently allow coining efficiency-improvement and effectiveness-improvement strategies. The paper finds that most performance improvement strategies do not involve a trade-off between efficiency and effectiveness: investing in the maintenance of the water distribution network, involving the community in the production process, ensuring a minimum quality threshold, improving procurement policies, and relying on ground water contribute to both and deserve being implemented. On other aspects, related to commercial policies and the quality of water, local policymakers need to make a choice between pursing efficiency and effectiveness. The paper contributes to the ongoing discussion on the added-value of governance for the 2030 Agenda, and paves the way for benchmarking Ethiopian local governments, and warrants further research onto the added value of participation for development.
Pronunciation Errors Committed by EFL Learners in the English Department in Faculty of Education - Sana'a University
Authors: Almuslimi Fazee
Published: November 2020

Abstract This study aimed to, first, investigate the common pronunciation errors committed by EFL fourth level learners in the Department of English, Faculty of Education-Sana'a, Sana’a University, in the academic year 2019-2020; second to find out the reasons of producing mispronounced segments among University students when speaking; third to offer possible solutions that may help Yemeni students overcome pronunciation difficulties. The sample was 30 students selected randomly. Also, ten teachers were part of the sample in which they were given a close-ended questionnaire. A descriptive method was used to carry out the study. For gathering data, a close-ended questionnaire and a test were used. Data were analyzed using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Science). The study concluded that EFL learners mispronounce certain phonemes that are in a mismatch with word orthography and consonant cluster. Moreover, vowels were mispronounced by students. The strongest factors that contribute to this problem, according to this study, were due to learners' mother tongue interference, and other causative factors such as limited language exposure. The study recommends that teaching should focus more on pronunciation along with preparing suitable material. Keywords: pronunciation errors, learners, EFL
Kebijakan Sinergitas R & D Pemerintah, Komunitas Epistemik, dan Sektor Swasta dalam Percepatan Kemandirian Industri Pertahanan
Authors: Susdarwono Endro Tri
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this research is to discuss R&D synergy policies of government, epistemic community, and private sector in accelerating the independence of the Indonesian defense industry. This research is a qualitative research, the type of research uses a comprehensive analytical study and analytical normative approach. The government is aware of the importance of building national research capacity in defense technology. That awareness must be followed up with concrete policies, measurable results, and strategic cooperation with other national components. Human resources or researchers, academics, and innovators who are members of various research institutions are basically a "pool of knowledge" that studies and understands various aspects of the technology, managerial, and social-political industry of the defense, so that it is in an irreplaceable position as the driving force of the ideals of independence in the defense industry. Increasing the capability and mastery of defense industry technology must be done through research and development (R&D) and engineering activities. R&D activities are also an absolute requirement for defense independence and the ability to respond to the development of defense and security technology.