bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing English Learning Materials for Mechanical Engineering Students Using Padlet
Authors: Etfita Fauzul , Wahyuni Sri
Published: March 2020

Due to emergence of English for Specific Purposes where nowadays English not only a learning material for students but it has become a need for people. Mechanical Engineering graduates are expected to have English ability to compete in job profession. For that reason, it was important to develop English learning material based on the needs of Mechanical Engineering student. The aimed of this research was to develop appropriate English learning materials for the students of Mechanical Engineering Students by using Padlet. Padlet is a web-based interactive application that can be used for communication among students. This research was conducted by using research and development method which involves a preliminary stage and collects information, planning, develop of product and expert validation. The research result was feasible to use based on validation step which was 80% and categorized very good. The product of this research were six units of English learning materials in the form of spoken and written texts as well as grammar explanation. The activities encourage the students to actively participate in the classroom discussion and be involved in solving the task. This research is expected to give contribution to English learning especially English for Mechanical Engineering students.
Influence of La- and Al-Dopant Substitutions on Morphology and Magnetic Characteristics of High Temperature Yttrium Iron Garnet
Authors: Pauzi Nurul Atiqah Mohd , Nazlan Rodziah , Ismail Ismayadi
Published: March 2020

The optimization of magnetic uses of magnetic garnet type ferrites is largely known depending on their microstructure, synthesis process and chemical composition of the materials. This research investigates the effect of dopants substitution on microstructure and magnetic properties of Yttrium Iron Garnet (YIG). The oxide-mixture route was employed in synthesizing the YIG powders using Aluminium and Lanthanum as dopants with concentration of 0.5 prior to sintering at 1400 °C. The samples were characterized in several testing applications in order to study the structural, microstructural, magnetic properties and density effects toward the samples workability as ferromagnetic materials. Characterization of the samples were carried out by using Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Impedance/Materials Analyzer and density measurement. The results showed that La-doped YIG shows an incredible achievement as a new ferromagnetic material, meanwhile with the substitution of Aluminum ion would increase the magnetic response of YIG.
Preparation and Characterization of Bio-Degradable Plastic from Banana Kepok Peel Waste
Authors: Rusdi Suharno , Destian Ridwan A. , Rahman Fitratur , Chafidz Achmad
Published: March 2020

Everyday human life cannot be separated from plastic. Almost all objects that are around us are made of plastic. In general, plastics are non-biodegradable, causing environmental problems caused by the increased volume of plastic waste. One way to overcome this is by recycling existing plastic waste. But the use of recycled plastics is very limited and considered inefficient because the process is more difficult and processing is more expensive than buying new plastic raw materials. Another alternative is to use bioplastics or biodegradable plastic. This plastic is more environmentally friendly because it is biodegradable or easily decomposed by microorganisms. Basically, bioplastics can be made from vegetable starches. In this study we will use starch extracted from banana peel waste as a base material for making bioplastics. In this research, glycerin which is used as a bioplastic adhesive or plasticizer will be used. Whether or not bioplastics depend on the resistance to water, the attractiveness of the bioplastics, the ability of the plastic to be decomposed by microorganisms. From this research, it is expected to produce bioplastics with high water resistance and high tensile strength and easy to decompose microorganisms.
Determination of the Bond Strength of Wood Veneer and Geopolymer Matrix by Means of a Pull-Out Test
Authors: Sarmin Siti Noorbaini , Rahman Wan Mohd Nazri Wan Abdul , Yunus Nor Yuziah Mohd , Ahmad Nurrohana
Published: March 2020

The bonding strength of wood veneer (Picea abies) attached between a geopolymer matrixes were investigated by means of a pull-out test. Effects of pre-treatment of wood on the bonding strength were applied whereas a strong influence of pre-treatment on bonding strength could be observed. The treatment of wood veneer showed that using wet veneer (~90% moisture content) leads to the best results compared to untreated dry (~12% moisture content) veneer. Furthermore, the effects of sodium hydroxide extraction and sodium silicate treatment were examined. The lignin UV absorbance values in treated wood, obtained by scanning ultraviolet microspectrophotometry (UMSP), do not show any significant changes in absorbance which mean that there were no complex changes in phenolic wood components, including modification of the lignin side chains. It can be said that the alkaline environment needed for geopolymer was not the main problem that limits wood (Picea abies)-geopolymer compatibility.
Synthesis and Electrochemical Properties of Ternary Co-, Cu- and Ni- Based Metal-Organic Frameworks Electrode for Battery Supercapacitor Hybrid Application
Authors: Sanusi Amir Luqman , Zain Nurul Khairiyyah Mohd , Misnon Izan Izwan , Samsudin Ahmad Salihin , Rajan Jose
Published: March 2020

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) composed by coordination bonds between metal ion with organic linker has a uniform combination of micro and mesoporous structures has been used for several application including battery supercapacitor hybrid. (BSH). In BSH, MOF offer several advantages including high surface area, porous, and structure tunability. This paper reports the synthesis of ternary MOF of copper (Cu), nickel (Ni) and cobalt (Co) with 1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid. The Co/Cu/Ni-MOF is synthesized using hydrothermal method at 160 °C for 12h and further develop as a BSH electrode. The physicochemical properties of MOF were characterized using FESEM, FTIR, XRD, BET and the electrochemical properties were evaluated using cyclic voltammetry (CV), charge-discharge cycling (CDC) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Electrochemical analysis indicated that the MOF has high specific capacitance (CS) of 591 F g-1 at a current density of 1 A g-1 and 519 F g-1 at scan rate of 2 mV s-1, and possess low series resistance (RS) of 0.44 Ω and equivalent distributed resistance (Rd) of 1.07 Ω.
Extraction of Natural Dyes from Kesumba keling (Bixa orellana) Seed and Secang (Caesalpinia sappan Linn) Wood for Coloring Fabrics
Authors: Rusdi Suharno , Yogaswara Hasby , Prabowo Wisnu Tri , Chafidz Achmad
Published: March 2020

Natural dyes are dyes that are environmentally friendly, harmless to actors and users, and the colors are more diverse. Natural dyes can be obtained by extraction treatment that is removing pigments from plant parts. The results of Kesumba Keling seed extract (Bixa orellana) and Secang wood (Caesalpinia sappan Linn) were obtained from boiling. The purpose of this study are to extract natural dyes from Kesumba Keling seed and secang wood and to determine the direction of the color produced from dyeing the fabric using extracted solution of Kesumba Keling and Secang wood. The dyeing fabric has the shortest wavelength of 624 nm and the longest is 776.5 nm. The direction of the color produced was red. The use of different fixators gives different colors. Lime fixator (Ca (OH)2) gives a color younger than the original color, while the tunjung fixator (FeSO4) gives an effect of color older than the original color. The lime fixator produces red to orange, while the tunjung fixator produces red in the direction of brown. While, the different dipping temperatures did not significantly affect the color of the cloth. Additionally, the different cloth dipping schemes considerably affected the color of cloth produced, especially the intensity of the color.
In Situ Pyrolysis of Pine Flowers to Produce Bio-Oil: Effect of Temperature and Catalyst Treatment
Authors: Zulkania Ariany , Yasha Nasim Zegarra , Rachman Shandy Adesya , Chafidz Achmad
Published: March 2020

Nowadays, the demand for renewable energy increases dramatically which is caused by the crisis of fossil fuel. Bio-oil is one of the environmental renewable energy since it can be produced from biomass. Pine flowers as biomass mostly still become waste so that it has the potential to become a source of energy production. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of temperature and catalyst treatment on the characterization of bio-oil obtained. This research was using Zeolit catalyst activated by HCl 4N for six hours and impregnated by Fe2(NO3)3.9H2O. The experiment was carried out at different temperature treatment (450 °C, 500 °C, 550 °C) and different catalyst treatment (non-catalyst, non-impregnated catalyst, and impregnated catalyst). The catalyst and the biomass with size of (-100+120) mesh and (-30+40) mesh, respectively, were mixed where the catalyst used was 5% of the total weight of the biomass. The mixed catalyst-biomass was then put into the reactor to be pyrolyzed. The pyrolysis process was carried out by flowing N2 gas to prevent the presence of oxygen in the reactor. The result showed that optimum bio-oil production, 33.73%, was obtained from the sample with 550 °C with non-impregnated catalyst. The resulting bio-oil has the following properties : dark brown, yield of bio-oil 17.58%-33.73%, pH 2.95-3.56, density 1.055 gr/mL-1.068 gr/mL, and heating value 2,065.07-2,490.40 cal/gr. Finally, the GCMS results with the effect of temperature and catalyst treatment show the difference in the percentage of the phenolic-aromatic compound, acid, hydrocarbon, and ketone.
Preliminary Assessment of Non-Enzymatic Browning and Antioxidant Activity in Sea Cucumber Derived Gelatin-Sugar Models
Authors: Hong Pui Khoon , Low Kay May , Moo Siew Yen , Teh Yiing Chyn
Published: March 2020

Four models were developed to assess the development of non-enzymatic browning and antioxidant activity in mixtures of sea cucumber derived gelatin (control), gelatin-glucose, gelatin-fructose and gelatin-glucosamine. All gelatin-sugar models were prepared in mixtures consisted of 5% w/v gelatin and 1.25% w/v sugar and compared against a control (5% w/v gelatin). The mixtures were incubated at 37 °C and 70 °C respectively for up to 24 h. The progress of non-enzymatic browning was monitored via changes in absorption at 280 nm, 320 nm and 420 nm. The gelatin-glucosamine model showed greater development in early Maillard reaction products (280 nm) and pre-melanoidins (320 nm) when incubated at 70 °C after 16 h of incubation. Meanwhile lower incubation temperature (37 °C) promoted browning development (420 nm) in all the models. The gelatin-glucosamine mixture incubated at 70 °C showed high potency in antioxidant activity (p<0.05), this is in accordance to the greater reactivity of glucosamine in the formation of Maillard reaction products at the early and intermediate stages. The results suggested the gelatin-glucosamine model can be further optimized to achieve high potency in antioxidant activity and a desired browning intensity to cater specific applications such as in food and biomaterials.
Prospects for the Development of Green Gasoline and Green Diesel from Crude Palm Oil in Indonesia
Authors: Sugiyono Agus , Fitriana Ira , Budiman Abdul Hamid , Nurrohim Agus
Published: March 2020

The Government of Indonesia is trying to reduce crude oil and oil fuel imports in order to minimize the balance of trade deficit through increasing utilization of biofuel. One of the options is to increase palm oil production to be processed into biofuel which can be utilized domestically. Crude palm oil (CPO) production is expected to continue to increase and is prospective to be used as a feedstock for making green gasoline and green diesel. Green gasoline production through catalytic cracking process while producing green diesel through hydrotreating process. The development of green fuel (green gasoline and green diesel) is technically possible and prospective. Production of green gasoline and green diesel by 2020 will be able to reduce import of gasoline and diesel oil by 8.9% and 31.8% respectively. Green fuel is only effective in reducing the import value of gasoline and diesel in the period 2025-2040 because there are constraints on the availability of CPO. Production of green diesel and green gasoline can reduce fuel imports so that it indirectly increases energy security. The development of the green diesel and green gasoline industry requires a clear and gradual grand strategy from the government so that feedstock needs will not interfere with food needs.
Gene Expression Analysis of Fruit Bromelain in Ripening of Ananas comosus Cultivar MD 2
Authors: Pang Wei Cheng , Ramli Aizi Nor Mazila , Abdul Hamid Azzmer Azzar
Published: March 2020

Fruit bromelain is a proteolytic enzyme harbouring cysteine catalytic residue found abundantly in pineapple fruit. The expression of cysteine proteases is usually regulated during fruit ripening. In the present study, we aimed to study the expression and proteolytic activity level of fruit bromelain during the ripening stage of A. comosus cultivar MD 2. The gene expression of fruit bromelain was investigated via relative gene expression analysis using qPCR while the proteolytic activity of fruit bromelain was analysed via enzymatic assay using casein as a substrate. The qPCR analysis revealed that the expression of fruit bromelain was down-regulated 10-fold in ripe pineapple fruits. Besides that, the unripe pineapple fruits [1.9101 ± 0.0831 U/mL] had a higher proteolytic activity than the ripe MD 2 pineapple fruits [1.1333 ± 0.0896 U/mL]. This result showed that the function of fruit bromelain may be related to the protection of young pineapple fruits during the fruit development stage.
Production of Methyl Ester from Soybean Oil by Using Impregnated Mixed Domestic-Waste Catalysts
Authors: Khazaai Siti Norhafiza Mohd , Embong Nurul Hajar , Ma’arof Nurul Aina Nasriqah , Hasbi Ab. Rahim Mohd , Maniam Gaanty Pragas
Published: March 2020

Nowadays due to the depletion of non-renewable energy resources, production of green material from domestic wastes has played an important role. The waste of banana peel impregnated with calcium oxide (CaO) from eggshell had successfully been used as a low-cost catalyst to transesterify soybean oil to produce methyl ester. The catalytic actions from potassium and calcium oxide content in calcined banana peel (700 °C) and eggshell (900 °C) discover through FT-IR, XRD, and SEM. Production of methyl ester obtained at 82.29 wt. % with the optimal condition of 7 wt. % of catalyst amount, methanol/oil mass ratio, 9:1; and the reaction temperature, 65 °C within 2 h reaction time.
Study on Modified Hummers Method for Partially Oxidized Graphene Oxide Synthesis
Authors: Lim Wan Sin , Chong Kwok Feng
Published: March 2020

Graphene oxide (GO) is a promising material that currently a common precursor in the synthesis of graphene material. GO has emerged as a rapidly developed material due to its remarkable application in electronics, energy storage, biomedical and chemistry. However, controlling the oxygen content in the GO is one of the significant factors for tailoring GO that able to fulfil various applications. In this paper, diluted sulfuric acid was employed during the oxidation. Based on the characterization results from Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR), Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) it found that the partially oxidized graphene oxide (PGO) was fabricated. The PGO synthesis show an insignificant absorption of C=O peak in FTIR and weak peak intensity at 300 nm for UV-Vis analysis that found in fully oxidized graphene oxide. Therefore, the PGO synthesis claimed to be partially oxidized.
Effect of Different Concentration of Cellulose Nanocrystals Comprising Hydroxyethyl Cellulose / Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) as a Bone Tissue Engineering Scaffold
Authors: Nizan Nor Sarahtul Nadirah Hairol , Zulkifli Farah Hanani , Abd Hamid Hazrulrizawati , Mazwir Muhammad Hafiz
Published: March 2020

In this study, biodegradable scaffolds based on hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) (5 wt%) and poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) (15 wt%) with different percentages of celullose nanocrystal (CNC) (1 and 7 wt%) were fabricated by lyophilization method to get highly porous scaffolds. These scaffolds were made water insoluble by cross-linking via heat treatment. The morphology and thermal properties of HEC/PVA/CNCs scaffolds were characterized by using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). The morphological study showed that both prepared scaffold have highly porous structures with good pore interconnected structure. It was observed that thermal properties of scaffolds increased significantly as the concentration of CNCs increased. Cytotoxicity studies on scaffolds were carried out by utilizing human fetal osteoblast (hFOB) cells using DAPI nuclear stain and then confirmed using SEM. hFOB cells were able to attach and spread on all scaffolds. Incorporated CNCs as reinforcing nanofiller on scaffolds promising a superior functionality in bone tissue engineering.
A Review on Lipid- Polymer Hybrid Nanoparticles and Preparation with Recent Update
Authors: Raman Subashini , Mahmood Syed , Rahman Azizur
Published: March 2020

Ongoing progression in nanotechnology has demonstrated that nanoparticles have indicated promising potential as in delivering the drug. The acceptance of nanoparticles and their applications also reported in clinical advancement to upgrade and improve the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics properties of therapeutic compounds. In this review, we talk about the next-generation core-shell nanostructures like lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles (LHNPs) and their application and formulation aspects. Conceptually, derived from both polymeric nanoparticles and liposome, which gave them a name of hybrid nanoparticles. It is basically polymer core enveloped by a lipid layer. The major issue arises with nanoparticles with polymer is related to entrapment efficiency and LHNPs have proved to solve this issue to a vast extent, due to their hybrid components.
Removal of Lead (Pb2+) from Aqueous Solution Using Bio-Adsorbent Prepared from Cassava Stem Pith
Authors: Mutiara Tintin , Muhandi Fauzan I. , Alhumaini Ayatullah , Chafidz Achmad , Pratikno Hidayat
Published: March 2020

It has been known that some industrial liquid wastes usually contain a variety of heavy metals such as Cd (Cadmium), Pb (Lead), Ni (Nickel), Cr (Chromium), As (Arsenic), Cu (Copper), and Fe (Iron). If these liquid wastes are not managed properly, it will damage the water environment, especially the water body like rivers and lakes. Various methods have been applied to remove heavy metals from these liquid wastes, such as precipitation, ion exchange, membrane processes, adsorption, coagulation, and flotation. One common method that can be applied to manage waste that contain heavy metals is an adsorption method. Recently, it has been a trend to use biomass based adsorbent or usually called by bio-adsorbent. In this research bio-adsorbent has been prepared from cassava stem pith powder. This research was conducted to study the capability of bio-adsorbent made of cassava stem pith powder to adsorb Pb2 + metal ions. Several variables have been used during the adsorption test, which are pH condition (3, 4, 5), adsorption time (10, 20, 50, 120 mins), and initial concentrations (5, 10, 20 mg/L). The adsorption process involving functional groups contained in the adsorbent so that there will be interactions between the adsorbents with Pb2+ metal ions. The sample characterization was carried out using an Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) apparatus. The adsorption test results showed that the optimum conditions for Pb2+ adsorption by the bio-adsorbent occured at pH = 3, adsorption time of 120 minutes, and initial concentration of 5 mg/L, in which the capacity was about 2.525 mg/g with the percent removal (R%) of 88.88%.
Conduction Properties Study on Alginate Incorporated with Glycolic Acid Based Solid Biopolymer Electrolytes
Authors: Fuzlin Ahmad Faizrin Ahmad , Misnon Izan Izwan , Samsudin Ahmad Salihin
Published: March 2020

This present work focuses on the conduction properties investigation on solid biopolymer electrolytes (SBEs) based alginate doped with various composition of glycolic acid (GA). The film was successfully prepared via solution casting technique and was characterized for conduction properties by using impedance spectroscopy. Based on ionic conductivity study, sample containing with 20 wt. % of GA possessed an optimum ionic conductivity of 5.32 × 10-5 Scm−1 at ambient temperature (303 K). The dielectric analysis revealed the highest ionic conductivity sample based alginate-GA SBEs has the highest dielectric constant and loss and increased significantly when temperature increases at ambient temperature. The dielectric properties shows that the entire alginate-GA SBEs are non-Debye behavior where there is no single relaxation occurred in the present system.
Performance of Cobalt-Silica Membranes through Pervaporation Process with Different Feed Solution Concentrations
Authors: Elma Muthia , Saputro Gesit Satriaji
Published: March 2020

This work shows the performance of cobalt-silica membranes through water desalination via pervaporation process. The aim of this work is to find out the performance of the cobalt oxide as a templating agent in the silica cobalt membranes for water desalination via pervaporation process. It also aims to investigate the water flux and salt rejection of silica cobalt membranes using artificial saline water. The concentration of cobalt oxide as a template for fabricating cobalt-silica membranes were 5 – 35 wt%. The feed solution applied during pervaporation process were 0.3 – 5 wt% NaCl with operating temperatures of 25, 40 and 60 °C. The silica xerogels were characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET). From the FTIR result, it is known that the higher the concentration of cobalt in the membrane, the more silanol and siloxane groups. Based on BET analysis, Si-Co 35 wt% membrane has largest pore volume (0.129387 cm3g-1). In addition, the highest value of water flux (7.2660 kg.m-2.h-1) and salt rejection (100%) is achieved by Si-Co 5% membrane in 0.3% NaCl feed at 60 °C. The value of water flux decreases and the value of salt rejection increases with increasing feed concentration.
Effect of PVDF-Ca Ratio on Electrospun Membrane Fabrication for Water Filtration Application
Authors: Alias Mohamad Haziq , Hassin Noor Syafiqah , Lau Pui Pui , Misnon Izan Izwan , Rajan Jose
Published: March 2020

Innovation in water filtration media leads to tremendous focus in academia due to fresh water source declining and contamination. Electrospinning is considered as new and effective protocols in synthesizing filtration membrane for this purpose. Electrospun membrane of PVDF and CA composite at different ratios has been fabricated for water filtration application. The membranes were characterized using TGA, FTIR, viscometer, conductivity testing, contact angle and FESEM. TGA result showed a shifting in thermal stability with respect to the increasing PVDF ratio (90P10C). FTIR analysis showing five membrane samples had the same functional groups included C-F, =C-H, C-O, C=O, C-H and O-H groups. The FESEM showed a nanofiber with an average diameter of 0.43324 nm and posses the average pore size of 0.3068 μm. Contact angle of the membrane is increased by the PVDF increment (130o @ 10:90 ratio). The filtration analysis of lake water demonstrates the best performing membrane 90P10C give 84.9% rejection at a high flux (26,253 L m-2 h-1), low turbidity (0.38 NTU) and comply to Malaysia Water Standard Type 1
The Effects of Moisture in Metal Oxide on the Mechanical and Electric Properties of Dielectric Elastomer Composites
Authors: Hakhiri Syed Muhammad Aiman Syed Mohd , Osman Ahmad Farimin Ahmad , Binti Mustapha Siti Noor Hidayah , Yiew Lau Kwan , Zakaria Shamsul
Published: March 2020

Dielectric elastomer (DE) technology are used in several applications for example generator, sensor and actuator. One of the major factors that limits the DE performance is premature electrical breakdown. Compositing is the example that have been reported to increase the breakdown strength. In this study polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) film will be incorporated with two different fillers which are titanium dioxide (TiO2) and zinc oxide (ZnO). Both metal oxides will be calcined up to 300°C before they are added to the PDMS elastomer as fillers. The results show that the calcined TiO2 and ZnO that incorporated in PDMS films show significant increase of breakdown strengths. Meanwhile, the calcined TiO2 PDMS film give higher breakdown strength as comparison to the calcined ZnO counterpart.
Estimate Dye Sensitized Solar Cells Performance Using Dyes Based on Green-Future and Local Wisdom with Simulation Method
Authors: Supriyanto Edy , Kartikasari Henry Ayu , Rohman Lutfi , Alviati Nova , Sutjipto Agus Geter Edy
Published: March 2020

One of the considerations for renewable energy that can be accepted by society is energy based on nature (green future) and environmentally friendly (local wisdom). Dye-sensitized solar cells give to the world, easily and simple implemented technology for future renewable energy. This research was conducted by simulating the performance of DSSC using dye based on green future and local wisdom. Dye is one of the most important components influencing solar cell performance because dye determines the photoresponse of the DSSC. Several dyes that used in this research included Vasica nees, W. fruticose L, U. dioical L, R. arborium, Myrica nagi, Curcuma angustifiola dan Berberies aristate. The reason for this choice of dye included it is easily found in Indonesia, does not cause environmental pollution, and is thought to have good prospects to be applied to DSSC. The best performance results produced by DSSC are using dye W.fruticose L with an efficiency of 1.6%, and the lowest performance are using dye R. arborium with an efficiency of 1 %.
General practitioner attitudes and confidence to deprescribing for elderly patients
Authors: Rossi Pier Riccardo , Hegarty Sarah E. , Maio Vittorio , Lombardi Marco , Pizzini Andrea , Mozzone Aldo , Uberti Marzio , Miozzo Simonetta
Published: March 2020

Deprescribing is a patient-centered process of medication withdrawal intended to achieve improved health outcomes through discontinuation of one or more medications that are either potentially harmful or no longer required. The objective of this study was to assess the perceptions of primary care physicians on deprescribing and potential barriers to deprescribing in the Local Health Authority (LHA) of Turin, Piedmont, Italy. Secondary objective was to evaluate educational needs of primary care physician. Cross sectional survey of primary care physicians working in the LHA of Turin, Piedmont, Italy. 439 GPs (71.3% of the total number of primary care physicians) attended an educational session related to deprescribing and were asked to anonymously answer a paper survey. Participants were asked to complete a previously published questionnaire about deprescribing and potential factors affecting the deprescribing process. A correlation coefficient was calculated to assess the association between physicians’ confidence in deprescribing and attitudes or barriers associated with deprescribing. Many GPs (71%) reported general confidence in their ability to deprescribe. Most respondents (83%) reported they were comfortable deprescribing preventive medications, however almost half expressed doubts regarding deprescribing when medication was initially prescribed by a colleague (45%) or when patient and/or caregiver supported the opportunity to continue the assumption (49%). Around a third of doctors maintain that the absence of strong evidence supporting deprescribing prevents them from considering it (38%), that they do not have the necessary time to effectively go through the process of deprescribing (29%), and that fear of possible effects due on withdrawal prevents them from deprescribing (31%). There was no strong correlation between physicians’ confidence and attitudes or barriers associated with deprescribing. The present study confirms that general practitioners sense the importance of deprescribing and feel prepared to face it managing communication with patients and caregivers, but find barriers when enacting the practice in a real-life context.
The physiotherapist and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Baldwin Joan
Published: March 2020

No abstract available.
Anatomical aspects of some vertebral anomalies
Authors: Wood E. J.
Published: March 2020

No abstract available.
Physiotherapy in a mission hospital
Authors: Ingle R. F.
Published: March 2020

No abstract available.
A new horizon for physiotherapists
Authors: Cornell Carol
Published: March 2020

No abstract available.
Investigating the Criminals Exposed to Inter-Partner Violence and Child Abuse
Authors: Oveisi Sonia , Mahboobi Malihe , Chen Hui
Published: March 2020

Introduction:

There are numerous studies on the intergenerational transmission of violence and criminal acts. However, the role of the confounding factors has been suggested as social and contextual factors. This study investigated whether violent criminals are more exposed to both their parents' inter-partner violence (IPV) and their own childhood abuse in comparison to noncriminal people after controlling for potentially confounding factors.

Methods:

This is a retrospective study on 101 Iranian young medical students at the Qazvin University of Medical Science (control) and 98 young adults who have been imprisoned in Choobindar prison due to violent crimes. Two groups have been assessed by Adult Recall Version of The Revised Conflict Tactics Scales: CTS2-CA and CTSPC-CA questionnaires.

Results:

Logistic regression of IPV and demographic variables showed that exp(β) for father's and mother's education in criminals is 0.307 and 0.203, respectively. Father's and mother's education were significant predictors of inter-partner violence among criminals with odds ratio of 0.24 and 0.29, respectively. Furthermore, childhood psychological aggregation and neglect are meaningful factors.

Conclusion:

After controlling for potentially confounding risk factors, multinomial logistic regression analyses revealed that a history of witness IPV is not associated with the criminal act. The family context is important which they grew up in, such as mother's and father's education. Many criminal acts are the result of a combination of several factors, such as psychological, educational, cultural, social, and economic factors.
Can Social Support Predict Health-Promoting Behaviors Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults?
Authors: Khami Leila , Motalebi Seyedeh Ameneh , Mohammadi Fatemeh , Momeni Maryam , Shahrokhi Akram
Published: March 2020

Introduction:

Because health-promoting behavior is one of the major determinants of health, this study was conducted to determine whether social support predicts health-promoting behaviors in elderly people living in Tabriz, Iran.

Methods:

In this descriptive and cross-sectional study, 180 elderly people referring to the health complexes in Tabriz, Iran, were selected using a random cluster sampling method. Data were collected using demographic questionnaires, the Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile II, and the Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale. Data were analyzed using stepwise multiple linear regression models.

Results:

The mean age of 180 elderly people who participated in the study was 66.9 ± 5.74 years. The results of multiple regression indicated that education (B = 8.98, P < 0.001) and perceived social support (B = 0.45, P < 0.014) explained ~29% of changes in health-promoting behaviors among the elderly.

Conclusion:

Given the predictive role of perceived social support in health-promoting behaviors, establishing or strengthening supportive social networks seems to be one of the effective factors in promoting the elderly's health.
How Is the World Responding to the Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Compared with the 2014 West African Ebola Epidemic? The Importance of China as a Player in the Global Economy
Authors: Maffioli Elisa M.
Published: March 2020

This article describes similarities and differences in the response of governments and the international community to the current 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and the 2014 West African Ebola epidemic. It expresses the opinion that the speed and scale of the response to COVID-19 are affected by the important role that China plays in the global economy. By contrast, insufficient and less timely action was initially undertaken in West African countries during the 2014 Ebola epidemic. It concludes by stating why preparedness for and response to all disease outbreaks, also in countries of lower economic importance, should become a priority in the global health agenda.
A new open-source viscoelastic solid earth deformation module implemented in Elmer (v8.4)
Authors: Zwinger Thomas , Nield Grace A. , Ruokolainen Juha , King Matt A.
Published: March 2020

Abstract. We present a new, open-source viscoelastic solid earth deformation model, Elmer/Earth. Using the multi-physics finite-element package Elmer, a model to compute viscoelastic material deformation has been implemented into the existing linear elasticity solver routine. Unlike approaches often implemented in engineering codes, our solver accounts for the restoring force of buoyancy within a system of layers with depth-varying density. It does this by directly integrating the solution of the system rather than by applying stress-jump conditions in the form of Winkler foundations on inter-layer boundaries, as is usually needed when solving the minimization problem given by the stress divergence in commercial codes.
We benchmarked the new model with results from a commercial finite-element engineering package (ABAQUS, v2018) and another open-source code that uses viscoelastic normal mode theory, TABOO, using a flat-earth setup loaded by a cylindrical disc of 100 km in diameter and 100 m in height at the density of ice. Evaluating the differences in predicted surface deformation at the centre of the load and two distinctive distances (100 and 200 km), average deviations of 7 and 2.7 cm of Elmer/Earth results to ABAQUS and TABOO, respectively, were observed. In view of more than 100 cm maximum vertical deformation and the different numerical methods and parameters, these are very encouraging results.
Elmer is set up as a highly scalable parallel code and distributed under the (L)GPL license, meaning that large-scale computations can be made without any licensing restrictions. Scaling figures presented in this paper show good parallel performance of the new model. Additionally, the high-fidelity ice-sheet code Elmer/Ice utilizes the same source base as Elmer and thereby the new model opens the way to undertaking high-resolution coupled ice-flow–solid-earth deformation simulations, which are required for robust projections of future sea-level rise and glacial isostatic adjustment.
Replicability of the EC-Earth3 Earth system model under a change in computing environment
Authors: Massonnet François , Ménégoz Martin , Acosta Mario , Yepes-Arbós Xavier , Exarchou Eleftheria , Doblas-Reyes Francisco J.
Published: March 2020

Abstract. Most Earth system models (ESMs) are running under different high-performance computing (HPC) environments. This has several advantages, from
allowing different groups to work with the same tool in parallel to leveraging the burden of ensemble climate simulations, but it also offers
alternative solutions in the case of shutdown (expected or not) of any of the environments. However, for obvious scientific reasons, it is critical to
ensure that ESMs provide identical results under changes in computing environment. While strict bit-for-bit reproducibility is not always guaranteed
with ESMs, it is desirable that results obtained under one computing environment are at least statistically indistinguishable from those obtained
under another environment, which we term a “replicability” condition following the metrology nomenclature. Here, we develop a protocol to assess
the replicability of the EC-Earth ESM. Using two versions of EC-Earth, we present one case of non-replicability and one case of replicability. The
non-replicable case occurs with the older version of the model and likely finds its origin in the treatment of river runoff along Antarctic
coasts. By contrast, the more recent version of the model provides replicable results. The methodology presented here has been adopted as a standard
test by the EC-Earth consortium (27 institutions in Europe) to evaluate the replicability of any new model version across platforms, including for
CMIP6 experiments. To a larger extent, it can be used to assess whether other ESMs can safely be ported from one HPC environment to another for
studying climate-related questions. Our results and experience with this work suggest that the default assumption should be that ESMs are not
replicable under changes in the HPC environment, until proven otherwise.
Use of Sentinel-1 radar observations to evaluate snowmelt dynamics in alpine regions
Authors: Marin Carlo , Bertoldi Giacomo , Premier Valentina , Callegari Mattia , Brida Christian , Hürkamp Kerstin , Tschiersch Jochen , Zebisch Marc , Notarnicola Claudia
Published: March 2020

Abstract. Knowing the timing and the evolution of the snow melting process is very important, since it allows the prediction of (i) the snowmelt onset, (ii) the snow gliding and wet-snow avalanches, (iii) the release of snow contaminants, and (iv) the runoff onset. The snowmelt can be monitored by jointly measuring snowpack parameters such as the snow water equivalent (SWE) or the amount of free liquid water content (LWC). However, continuous measurements of SWE and LWC are rare and difficult to obtain. On the other hand, active microwave sensors such as the synthetic aperture radar (SAR) mounted on board satellites are highly sensitive to LWC of the snowpack and can provide spatially distributed information with a high resolution. Moreover, with the introduction of Sentinel-1, SAR images are regularly acquired every 6 d over several places in the world. In this paper we analyze the correlation between the multitemporal SAR backscattering and the snowmelt dynamics. We compared Sentinel-1 backscattering with snow properties derived from in situ observations and process-based snow modeling simulations for five alpine test sites in Italy, Germany and Switzerland considering 2 hydrological years. We found that the multitemporal SAR measurements allow the identification of the three melting phases that characterize the melting process, i.e., moistening, ripening and runoff. In particular, we found that the C-band SAR backscattering decreases as soon as the snow starts containing water and that the backscattering increases as soon as SWE starts decreasing, which corresponds to the release of meltwater from the snowpack. We discuss the possible reasons of this increase, which are not directly correlated to the SWE decrease but to the different snow conditions, which change the backscattering mechanisms. Finally, we show a spatially distributed application of the identification of the runoff onset from SAR images for a mountain catchment, i.e., the Zugspitze catchment in Germany. Results allow us to better understand the spatial and temporal evolution of melting dynamics in mountain regions. The presented investigation could have relevant applications for monitoring and predicting the snowmelt progress over large regions.
La revista Brujas, militancia feminista en democracia
Authors: Torricella Paula
Published: March 2020

El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar un primer abordaje de la revista feminista Brujas, que comienza a publicarse en la ciudad de Buenos Aires en el año 1982. Más particularmente, presto atención a sus primeros años, al modo en que se sitúa en una coyuntura de transición y a los temas que juzga de interés prioritario para el movimiento político al que pertenece.
The aim of this paper is to present a first approach to the argentinian feminist journal Brujas, first published in Buenos Aires in 1982. Attention is paid to its early years and the way it situates itself in the context of transition to democracy..
Comparison of heat-stable peptides using a multiple-reaction monitoring method to identify beef muscle tissue
Authors: Khvostov Daniil , Vostrikova Natalya , Chernukha Irina
Published: March 2020

Nowadays, proteomics is widely used as an analytical control method. A new method for determining animal tissue species-specificity based on a combination of two effective methods of food analysis, liquid chromatography (LC) and mass spectrometry (MS), was used in this work. Using this approach, it became possible to detect peptides. This work presents a comparison of species-specific, heat-stable peptides for the identification of beef. The objects of the study were native and boiled model mixtures containing beef with concentrations of 8% (w/w) and 16% (w/w). Pork was also added to the recipe to control for false-positive results. A high-performance liquid chromatography technique with mass spectrometric detection (LC-MS/MS) was used. Analysis of finished samples takes 25 minutes and is adapted to detect marker peptides. From the processing of the obtained data, three beef marker peptides were identified that were accepted as the best candidates. Two peptide prototypes, NDMAAQYK and YLEFISDAIIHVLHAK from the myoglobin protein and SNVSDAVAQSAR from the triosephosphate isomerase protein, were selected as potential biomarkers. For all samples, the signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) was set above 10. Temperature was not found to affect the structure and detection of marker peptides in samples with a muscle tissue concentration of 8% (w/w) at p <0.05. This approach is universally applicable for comparing biomarkers of other types of meat and to identify the most suitable candidates.
Assessment of Sleep Habits and Quality of Sleep among Elderly Residing In Rural Area of Dehradun: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Chaudary Jatin , Jain Bhavna , Bhadoria Ajeet Singh , Kishore Surekha , Aggarwal Pradeep
Published: March 2020

Context: Elderly have increased frequency of awakenings of longer durations, lower sleep efficiency, early bedtimes and wake times as compared to younger subjects. The study was conducted to assess the quality of sleep using Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), sleeping habits and changing sleep pattern among elderly and their associated factors. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted for a period of 3 months among all the elderly population residing in village Thano situated in Raipur block of district Dehradun, Uttarakhand. A total of 96 elderly were surveyed. Data was collected on sociodemographic characters of elderly as well as questions on Quality of sleep was asked based on PSQI questionnaire. Data was collected using Epi-collect5 application on phone. Data was analysed and presented utilizing appropriate statistical methods. Results: Among the 96 elderly, 57.3% of the participants were females and 40.6% were from 60-69-year age group. The mean PSQI score was 5.6±1.9. Sleep quality was poor among females, smokers, widow and those with no physical activity. With advancing age sleep quality came out to be significantly poor. Conclusions: Sleep disturbances are commonly seen among the elderly. Treatment of primary sleep problems can improve the quality of life.
Parental Demographic Variables as Determinants of Knowledge of Nutritional Needs of Preschoolers in North Central Zone, Nigeria
Authors: Achagh Wilfred Iorfa , Ezema Victor S. , Ogundele Bukola Bisola , Ekele Comfort Bissallah , Badamasi AfusatEjide , Ashefor Helen Arinola , Okondugba Alexander Chuwkuemeka , Okenyi Emmanuel Chidobe , Ibiam Julie U. , Otta Florence Eleje , Ifelunni Clara O. , Ugwu Gloria C. , Orji Joy Chioma , Ugwuanyi Christian S.
Published: March 2020

The general purpose of the study was to determine the influence of demographic variables of parents on knowledge and practices of nutritional needs and cognitive readiness of preschoolers in North Central Zone, Nigeria. The study adopted an ex post facto research design with a sample of 400 parents of preschool children drawn using multistage sampling procedure. Two instruments were used for data collection; “Parental Knowledge and Practices of Nutritional Needs of Preschoolers Questionnaire (PKPNNPQ) and Parental Knowledge and Practices of Cognitive Readiness of Preschoolers Questionnaire (PKPCRPQ). The instruments were validated by three experts. The reliability indices of the instruments were estimated using Cronbach’s Alpha approach. The overall reliability coefficients of PKPNNPQ and PKPCRPQ were 0.84 and 0.82 respectively. Data collected were analyzed using mean, ANOVA and t-test statistics. Mean was used to answer all the research questions, while ANOVA and t-test statistics were used to test all the null hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed that parents’ occupation had significant influence on their knowledge, and practice of the nutritional needs of preschoolers while location had no significant influence. It was therefore recommended that parents in different occupations should be educated and equipped with the necessary knowledge in their workplace about the nutritional needs of preschoolers.

 
Investigating EFL Learners’ Perceptions of Collaborative Writing
Authors: Abahussain Majed O.
Published: March 2020

Although pair and group work are commonly applied in English language classrooms, research investigating EFL learners’ perceptions of collaborative writing (CW henceforth) is still limited. The present study explores EFL students’ attitudes and perceptions toward CW. The study involved 30 L2 students enrolled in a writing course at one of the largest universities in Saudi Arabia. The course was divided into two parts: individual writing (IW) for the first month (four weeks) and collaborative writing for the second month (four weeks). The study uses a within-groups mixed methods design whereby the same group of students received both the individual writing and collaborative writing assignments for exploring participants’ attitudes toward collaborative writing as compared to their views toward individual writing. The same self-report survey (6-point Likert-scale) was used two times (after each writing condition) to determine the participants’ views of each writing condition. In addition, semi-structured interviews were conducted to gain qualitative insights while exploring the participants’ views toward the two writing conditions they experienced as well as to find out the benefits and challenges they faced. Results show that participants reported the effectiveness of CW significantly higher than individual writing. The analyses reveal a statistically significant difference where ratings of CW were higher compared to IW, indicating helpfulness of CW in enhancing not only their writing skills but also their learning of all four English language skills. Despite some reservations, the majority of the participants were supportive of the CW experience.