bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Analysis of Contractor Satisfaction on Owner Team Performance in Construction Projects (Case Study: Construction Projects in ITS)
Authors: Paus Usboko Gregorius , Wahyu Adi Tri Joko
Published: November 2020

Subjective performance measurements have been developed on construction projects of various key stakeholders such as contractors, designers and consultants. These approaches are usually related to owner satisfaction, customer satisfaction, occupant satisfaction but very rarely consider contractor satisfaction. The performance of the contractor and owner are interdependent, and their interactions fundamentally determine the overall project performance. This research aims to analyze the level of contractor satisfaction with the team owner’s performance which in the end to improve the improvement (Continuous Improvement) where there are indicators of team’ owner performance that needs attention to be improved and improved and those that need to be maintained. Owner performance indicators include the owner’s understanding of project needs, finances, decision-making, management, adequate support for contractors, client attitudes, clarity of client/owner commitment goals, and the working relationship of the owner and contractor. These indicators were obtained from literature and interviews with practitioners. These indicators are then developed to improve the existing conceptual framework. The satisfaction is measured using the Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) and priority variables that need to be improved are analyzed by the Importance Performance Analysis (IPA) method. The results of this study indicate the level of contractor satisfaction with the performance of the team owner from CSI calculations at the level of satisfaction. Meanwhile the results of the IPA show that financial indicators, one sub-indicator of support for contractors and one sub-indicator of the attitude of the owner must be improved.
Keywords: Contractor satisfaction, Owner performance, Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI), Importance Performance Analysis (IPA).
School Financial Management in Smpit Al-Azhar Banda Aceh
Authors: Fitri Hayatul , Harun Cut Zahri , . Niswanto
Published: November 2020

Financial management contributes to determining the realization of educational activities in schools. The financial management is conducted through the process of planning, organizing, leading, coordinating, and controlling. In this research, the researcher used a qualitative approach. The research subject is the school principal, the vice-principal, the treasurer, and the teachers. The techniques of data collection used are observation, interview, and documentation. The results of the study are; (1) The drafting process of the school budget revenue and expenditures (RAPBS) is made by collecting the data from teachers and staff. All the data obtained are the analysis results based on priority scale consideration guided by the previous year’s program. (2) The realization of school budgets originating from the central government is guided by technical guidelines set by the Minister of Education and Culture. However, the funds use sourced from the community is guided by the agreement between the committee and the foundation. (3) The accountability of the RAPBS in SMPIT Al-Azhar Banda Aceh is conducted every three months for budgets originating from the central government, which are then conveyed to the Education and Culture Department of Banda Aceh, while the accountability of budgets from the community and foundations is carried out once a year.
Keywords: Management, Financial, and School.
Development of Language Learning Based on Multimedia Devices for Autistic Student
Authors: Nara Hartini , Nomida Musnir Diana , Situmorang Robinson
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this study to develop a learning device of Indonesian language based on multimedia for autistic students. This research was conducted at SD Islam Alam dan Sains Al- Jannah. The students involved in the research were 20 students. The developed learning device uses the instructional model approach by Dick Carey and Carey (2009). Subjects of the research were 20 students. The developed learning device consists on applications, videos and manual book for both student and teachers. The developed products have been reviewed by a subject matter expert, an instructional design expert, a language expert, a media expert and an information technology expert. A series of formative evaluations through try-out examination has been conducted. The improvement of the learning device has been developed based on the previous formative evaluations. The results of this study shows developed learning device could improve the student learning outcomes effectively. Based on this result, the learning device could be recommended to be used as an alternative learning resource.
Keywords: development of learning devices, autistic student, Indonesian language, multimedia
The Effect of Empowerment and Compensation on Job Satisfaction of Academic Staff at Universitas Negeri Malang
Authors: Ma’ruf Nuris Dudung , Wardoyo Cipto , Dwi Satrio Yogi
Published: November 2020

Job satisfaction is not only determined by the amount of compensation provided, but can be influenced by other factors, namely employee empowerment. Salary, promotion, job security, working conditions, job independence, relationships with colleagues, relationships with superiors, and company characteristics. From this statement it can be described that in addition to compensation, empowerment is a factor that affects one’s job satisfaction. This research includes quantitative research with multiple regression. Data collection using a questionnaire and data analysis using multiple regression data analysis. The results showed that the effect of employee empowerment and compensation at Universitas Negeri Malang was quite significant. Empowerment of academic staff will be maximized if employees are given full trust to work, while providing maximum compensation according to employee expectations will result in employee job satisfaction.
Keywords: empowerment, compensation, job satisfaction
Vocational School Teacher Competence Need Analysis Based on 21st Century Learning For Millennial Generation
Authors: Iriani Tuti , Sri Handoyo Santoso
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this study is to identify teacher competencies in applying 21st century learning and other competencies that teachers must have in dealing with millennial generation. The research method used in this research was descriptive quantitative. The population of this study was the teachers of the Construction Technology Study Program teachers from 7 Vocational Schools in Bekasi, Depok and Jakarta. The sample of this study was 47 people. The results showed that almost 100% of teachers used technology for learning. The method used is discussion to improve critical thinking through Problem Based Learning (PBL) learning models, Project Based Learning (PjBL), Contextual Learning, Cooperative Learning models. To improve communication and collaboration, teachers give assignments in groups and are discussed and presented. And to increase creativity, teachers provide freedom to find learning resources. In other words, that the teacher has applied 4 C (communication, creativity, collaboration and critical thinking) in learning. However, teachers need training and mentoring to improve competency skills.
Keywords: 21st century learning, competence, millennial generation
Comparison of Effectiveness of Arbuscular Mycorrhiza Fungi (AMF) on Vitis vinifera under Low Irrigation Conditions
Authors: Fattahi M. , Nasrollahpourmoghadam S. , Mohammadkhani A.
Published: November 2020

Background: Grapevine is an important perennial crop worldwide, consumed as fresh or dried (raisins) fruit. Grapevines are exposed to a variety of abiotic stresses during their growth. Water shortage is one of the primary stressors and severely restricts the development of the grape industry. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), a kind of beneficial soil microorganism, can create a symbiotic association with plant roots forming arbuscular mycorrhizas (AMs), which play a role in the regulation of plant growth.
Methods: This research was accomplished in order to investigate the effect of 4 species mycorrhizal fungi on grapevine ‘Asgari’ cultivar under water stress conditions. We use of 3 irrigation regime that consist: 100% (as control), 70 and 40 % of field capacity. As well as, mycorrhizal treatments include: non-use of mycorrhizal (NM) and use of mycorrhiza (M) (Glomus mosseae, G. intraradices, G. etunicatum and G. verciform).
Result: The results indicated that shoot and root dry weight, pigments (total chlorophyll and carotenoids), relative water content (RWC), P, Mg2+ and Ca2+ under water limitation decreased but electrolyte leakage (EL), proline and total soluble sugars (TSS) increased chlorophyll content, RWC and nutrient (P, K+ and Ca2+) in M plants was higher than NM plants. Generally, the use of mycorrhiza fungi in this experiment reduced the harmful effects of water stress. Our results shown that G. verciform and G. etunicatum were better for symbiosis with “Asgari” grapevine under water limitation.
An Analysis of Antecedent Causes of Agricultural Distress in Haryana
Authors: Siwach Manoj , . Reena
Published: November 2020

Background: Haryana is an agricultural developed state of India but fluctuations in growth rate of agriculture and allied activities are very fast from last two decades. Some symptoms of agrarian distress have been observing in Haryana. In this paper a concrete analysis of prevalent situation to understand the antecedent causes of agriculture distress has been discussed.
Methods: The study has been made intensive reference to secondary data (from 1966 to 2018). The study has been descriptive in the nature and percentage method has been used to analysis the objectives of the study.
Result: The study has concluded that main causes of agricultural distress were cost of all main inputs increased over the long time, an imbalance generated in NPK ratio of consumption of fertilizer, not getting proper remunerative prices; poor infrastructure development process and only few crops were procured by government.
Rice Husk Ash as a Low Cost Soil Ameliorant for Abating Iron Toxicity in Lowland Rice
Authors: Mini V. , Lekshmi S.
Published: November 2020

Background: The Fe toxicity is a perpetual problem of low lying poorly drained acid soils. It also affects the solubility and availability of most of the plant nutrients, by reducing toxic concentrations of iron, aluminum and manganese. To overcome these constraint, application of lime is inevitable but high cost of liming materials necessitate the use of low-cost, internally sourced, environmentally friendly and adoptable organic sources. In present study rice husk ash was used as a soil ameliorant in lieu of liming.
Methods: A field experiment was conducted at Rice Research Station, Moncompu during 2017-2018 with nine treatments replicated thrice in RBD using rice variety Uma. A customized formulation with composition of K (8.9 %), Mg (3.2 %), Ca (3.7 %), Zn (2.1 %), Mn (0.23 %), B (3.5 %) and Cu (0.96 %) was developed based on the available nutrient status of the region and crop requirement and used for supplementary foliar nutrition.
Result: It was found that treatment comprising of Soil test based RDF + Rice husk ash @ lime (based on pH) + foliar spray of 0.5 % solution of customized formulation @ 5 kg ha-1 as foliar application of 0.5 % solution in two splits at maximum tillering and panicle initiation stage was the best treatment in increasing yield by 23 % compared to recommended dose of lime and fertilizer application and B:C ratio increased from 1.53 to 1.91. Effect of rice husk ash in ameliorating soil acidity was found to be on par with application of lime based on pH in acid sulphate soils of Kuttanad zone.
Punicalagin Improved the Oxidant-antioxidant Status in Male New Zealand White Rabbits
Authors: Gulay M. S. , Yildiz-Gulay O.
Published: November 2020

Background: Although punicalaginis known for its strong antioxidant properties, the current literature lacks knowledge about the direct oral consumption of punicalagin in rabbits. Therefore, the present study evaluated the potential effects of this powerful antioxidant in male rabbits.
Methods: The rabbits (n=24) were randomly divided into 4 treatment groups; controls (tap water) and 3 different doses of punicalagin in tap water (1, 2 and 10 mg/kg punicalagin). At the end of the experiment (9 wk), blood samples were taken and rabbits were sacrificed. The liver and kidney tissues were collected for oxidant and antioxidant parameters.
Result: Punicalagin did not cause any clinical symptoms. Body weights and feed intakes were not affected by punicalagin treatments. Similarly, the hematological parameters such as red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, white blood cells and platelets did not differ among the treatments. Serum glucose, urea, creatinine, amylase, lipase, cholesterol, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase levels were within the physiological ranges. Two highest doses used in the experiment decreased malondialdehyde levels and positively affected superoxide dismutase and catalase enzyme activities (P less than 0.05). Therefore, the current study suggests a lack of harmful effects and promising antioxidant capacity of punicalagin in male New Zealand rabbits up to 10 mg/kg/day dose levels.
Vitamins Supplementation Affecting Colostrum Composition in Murrah Buffaloes
Authors: Mudgal Vishal , . Vipin , Bharadwaj Anurag , Verma A. K.
Published: November 2020

Background: Vitamins A and E are unable to get synthesized by animal’s body and due to unavailability of sufficient green fodder in the ration, supplementation is required. Buffaloes are the major milk producer dairy animal in India and hence a study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of supplementing vitamin A and E on the colostrum composition of peri-parturient Murrah buffaloes.
Methods: Twenty-two multiparous Murrah buffaloes during their advance stage of pregnancy (-30 day) were selected and divided into three groups i. e. control (C, n=8), treatment 1 (T1, n=7) and treatment 2 (T2, n=7) based on the most probable producing ability of milk, parity and body weights. Buffaloes were fed either control diet (C) or supplemented with vitamin A and E @ 75,000 IU and 1,500 IU/day, respectively, in group T1 and @ 1,50,000 IU and 3,000 IU/day, respectively in group T2. Colostrum samples were collected from one day after parturition up to day 5th after calving and analysed for fat, protein, lactose, solid-not-fat and total solids.
Result: Supplementation of vitamin A and E at a higher level (T2) was helpful to increase (P less than 0.05) colostrum protein levels for first three days and total solids percentage for first two days as compared to control, while colostrum lactose and solid not fat % were high (P less than 0.05) in T1 groups as compared to control at day third only. The fat percentage had a reducing tendency (P less than 0.05) in control and T1 group and total solids in the T1 group only with the advancement of the post-parturient period. Based on the findings of the study, it may be concluded that vitamins A and E supplementation had a positive influence on the colostrum composition of peri-parturient Murrah buffaloes.
Effect of Vitrification on Folliculogenesis-Related Genes in Ovarian Follicles of Bubalus bubalis
Authors: Dua D. , Alam A. , Chauhan M. S. , Palta P. , Singh M. K.
Published: November 2020

Background: Many years have been devoted to preserve fertility, but the effect of cryopreservation on gene functionality in primary, secondary and tertiary follicular stages; is still unclear. The present study was designed to assess the effect of vitrification on the histological structures and expression of follicular cells related genes.
Methods: The buffalo ovarian cortical tissues were vitrified in two-steps. The sliced cortical tissues were incubated with VS1 (8.5% DMSO and 8.5% EG) for 10 min and sequentially incubated and stored in liquid nitrogen in VS2 (16.5% DMSO, 16.5% EG and 0.1M Sucrose). Morphological differences were assessed by hematoxylin and eosin staining, which indicated similar structures in both groups. Further, functionality of these follicles were evaluated by the relative gene expression of folliculogenesis-related genes; FOXO3, NLRP5, WNT4, SF1, VEGFA and HAS2. No significant difference was observed between the vitrified groups as compared to control. Moreover, toxicity in follicular cells during vitrification was rectified by MTT assay which also showed no significant difference.
Conclusion: Present study can be considered as the key work that helps in filling the gaps regarding the growth of follicles after cryopreservation in buffalo species, as this imparts nonsignificant injury on follicular functionality and development.
Influencia de la consolidación secundaria en la rigidez dinámica de un suelo compresible (arcillas)
Authors: García-Quirós Jordi , Ossa-López Alexandra , Flores-Guzmán Mario , Solano-Aguilar Ivannia
Published: November 2020

Con el objetivo de evaluar la influencia de la consolidación secundaria en la rigidez dinámica de un suelo compresible, se llevaron a cabo pruebas triaxiales dinámicas consolidadas no drenadas (CU), en probetas de suelo recuperadas en el antiguo lago de Texcoco, México, las cuales corresponden a un suelo arcilloso.

Las pruebas consistieron en dos etapas. Primero, las probetas se sometieron a un esfuerzo efectivo (σ’) definido; una vez concluida la consolidación primaria, etapa en la cual se disipa la presión de poro, se realizaron mediciones del módulo dinámico equivalente de Young (Eeq) y módulo resiliente (Mr) a distintos niveles de esfuerzo desviador, aplicando un pulso periódico senoidal y haversiano, respectivamente. Una vez determinados dichos módulos, se continuó consolidando el material con el mismo nivel de σ’, para así establecer la influencia del tiempo de consolidación en las magnitudes de estos. Por tanto, se realizaron dos mediciones adicionales a cada 24 horas, con lo cual se obtiene la variación de los módulos a lo largo del proceso de consolidación secundaria.

El procedimiento anterior se realizó a distintos niveles de esfuerzo efectivo o de consolidación, incluyendo etapas de carga y descarga de la curva de compresibilidad.
Peran Keluarga Terhadap Perilaku Mahasiswa yang Mengkonsumsi Minuman Beralkohol di Kabupaten Jember
Authors: Rahma Nina Ainur , Gani Husni Abdul , Ririyanti Mury
Published: November 2020

Adolescents in the age range of 17-21 years are generally students, who are expected to have good cognitive skills and be able to solve problems effectively. Teenagers who are unable to solve problems sometimes do something that is harmful to themselves such as consuming alcoholic beverages. The role of the family such as parenting and family conditions is one of the causes of adolescents consuming alcoholic beverages. This study aims to determine the role of families in the behavior of students who consume alcoholic beverages in Jember Regency. The theory used by researchers is Social Learning from Bandura. This research is a descriptive study with a qualitative approach. Determination of research informants using snowball techniques. Data collection uses in-depth interviews, documentation and passive participatory observation. Based on the results of the study it was found that the all-free parenting style, lack of trust given by parents to involve children in making decisions and ineffective time spent by parents for families so that children behave deviant.  Keywords: Family, teenagers, alcoholic drinks, social learning
Kadar Kolesterol pada Mencit (Mus-Musculus) Diabetes Setelah Konsumsi Ekstrak Rumput Laut Coklat (Phaeophyta)
Authors: Fransiska Irene , Indahyani Didin Erma , Handayani Ari Tri Wanodyo
Published: November 2020

In the case of Diabetes Mellitus, it will trigger some changes in lipid metabolism and lipoprotein composition, one of them is cholesterol. Cholesterol is a lipid that plays an important role in the structure of cell membranes. Seaweed contains bioactive components of flavonoids which reduce cholesterol levels. Brown seaweed contains bioactive components of alkaloids, flavonoids, triterpenoids, saponins, phenol hydroquinone, tannins, chlorophyll and β-carotene pigments. The bioactive component of brown seaweed also has strong antioxidant activity that can prevent damage caused by oxidative stress on pancreatic β cell function and acts as a trap for various free radicals and can reduce diabetic rat lipid peroxidation. This study to analyze the effect of giving brown seaweed extract on cholesterol levels in diabetic mice.This study was divided into 4 sample groups, namely the normal group, negative controls (diabetic mice), positive controls (diabetic mice + 1.3 mg / 20 gr BB metformin), K1 (diabetic mice + brown seaweed extract). The seaweed dose of 10mg / 20grBB is given on a daily basis for 21 days. Checking blood cholesterol levels in serum using the POD CHOD method and measured using biolysers. Diabetic mice with brown seaweed extract were significantly (p <0.05) lower cholesterol level of 68.94 mg / dL than diabetic mice 81.75 mg / dL. It was concluded that brown seaweed extract had an effect on reducing total cholesterol levels in diabetic mice.

 Keywords : Cholesterol levels, Diabetic mice, Brown Seaweed
FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH NUTRITIONAL STATUS OF CHILDREN UNDER FIVE YEARS OF AGE IN GUNUNGSITOLI IDANOI PRIMARY HEALTHCARE CENTER
Authors: Ziliwu Novrin Senselia Putri , Anggraeni Lina Dewi , Lina Rosa Nora
Published: November 2020

The number of children under five years of age suffering from underweight was 28.0% in Gunungsitoli district. Out of six primary Healthcare centers in the district, Gunungsitoli Idanoi Primary Healthcare Center Healthcarewas one of the six primary healthcare centers with the highest malnutrition prevalence. Sixty-four children under five years of age there Healthcaresuffered from malnutrition. This study aimed to identify factors associated with the nutritional status of children under five in Gunungsitoli Idanoi Primary Healthcare Center, Gunungsitoli district. It was an analytical survey with a cross-sectional approach conducted in Gunungsitoli Idanoi Primary Healthcare Center in February 2019. Data were collected using a questionnaire. This study had samples as many as 246 mothers of children under five years of age selected using a purposive random sampling technique. The bivariate analysis indicates the nutritional status of children under five was significantly associated with mother’s employment status (p=0.043) and family size (p=0.015). While the nutritional status of children under five had no significant association with mother’s knowledge of nutrition (p=0.485), mother’s education (p=0.616), family income (p=0.511), infectious disease (p=0.913), and history of breastfeeding (p=0.847). Mother’s employment status and family size affected the nutritional status of children under five. The primary Healthcare center should cooperate with stakeholders across sectors, especially conduct training for improving economic business skills of the people in the village, and promote family planning program for couples of childbearing age. Keywords: Breastfeeding, children under five years of age, underweight, mother’s knowledge, mother’s employment.
PREVALENCE AND FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH HYPERTENSION AMONG HEALTH WORKERS OF CENTRAL HOSPITALS IN NEPAL
Authors: Ghimire Prakash , Khadka Alisha , Anuwatnonthakate Amornrat , Trongsakul Supaporn
Published: November 2020

Hypertension is a significant public health issue considered as the world's biggest killer among the working-age group. Health workers are one of the working groups who are facing several factors in their lives that could induce hypertension among them. Nevertheless, there is a lack of information about hypertension among Nepalese health workers. Therefore, this cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with hypertension among health workers of central hospitals in Nepal. A total of 422 health workers aged ≥30 years from seven central hospitals of Nepal were selected using a proportionate stratified systematic random sampling method. Information regarding characteristics (socio-demographic, clinical, behavioral, occupational, and perceived stress) of participants were obtained by face to face interviews using a questionnaire after getting informed written consent. Participant's blood pressure and body mass index were measured based on the World Health Organization STEP Surveillance Manual. Binary logistic regression model was used to identify the associated factors of hypertension. The prevalence of hypertension was 35.31% (95% CI: 30.70%-40.10%). After controlling potential confounding factors through multivariate analysis, seven factors (increasing age, low educational level, being married, low fruit & vegetable consumption, low physical activity, alcohol use, and increased perceived stress) were found as significant independent predictors of hypertension. In conclusion, hypertension is highly prevalent among Nepalese health workers. Effective behavioral change interventions and routine health screening programs focusing on hypertension should be implemented to control hypertension among this neglected group, Nepalese health workers. Keywords: Health Workers, Hypertension, Perceived stress, Physical activity, Prevalence, Nepal
Estrategia didáctica para mejorar el aprendizaje del español como lengua extranjera en los estudiantes de un instituto de educación superior de Lima
Authors:   , Rodriguez Matta Luz Aida
Published: November 2020

La investigación propone una estrategia didáctica para mejorar el aprendizaje del Español como lengua extranjera en los estudiantes del curso de Español del Ciclo II de un instituto de Educación Superior de Lima.
Programa de tutoría integral para el desarrollo de las competencias interpersonales en estudios generales de una universidad privada de Lima
Authors:   , Cubillas Sánchez Flor De María , Félix Fernando Goñi Cruz
Published: November 2020

La presente investigación propone un programa de tutoría para mejorar las competencias interpersonales en los estudiantes de estudios generales de una universidad privada de Lima. El estudio se enmarca en el paradigma socio crítico e interpretativo o naturalista, de enfoque cualitativo, la investigación es educacional de tipo aplicada, la muestra es intencional de 60 estudiantes, 15 docentes y dos especialistas en psicología del departamento psicopedagógico de la universidad, como técnicas de recolección de datos se utilizó la entrevista a docentes, la observación de clase, encuesta a estudiantes; el diagnóstico evidencia que los docentes no cuentan con un modelo definido y falta mejorar la comunicación entre los tipos de tutoría con psicopedagogía, así mismo carecen de instrumentos diagnósticos para detectar a los alumnos con dificultades, así como una ficha práctica y corta para la derivación de casos. Por otro lado, entre las competencias a reforzar están la comunicación interpersonal, la empatía, asertividad y las comunicativas. Así, la propuesta consiste en diseñar un programa de tutoría cuya estrategia más importante son los talleres de capacitación para docentes y estudiantes, que permite capacitarlos en las competencias interpersonales y en lo que necesitan las tutorías para su buen desarrollo, diferentes estrategias están inmersas en los talleres como el juego de roles, la dramatización, la exposición, el debate, las dinámicas de animación, etc. Finalmente se busca que las tutorías logren un nivel de comunicación que facilite su labor a través de la plataforma Moodle.
Mathematical Modeling of the Development of Confirmed Daily Infection Numbers in the COVID-19 Pandemic by a Special Exponential Function
Authors: Keller Egbert , Keller Johannes , Selg Matthias
Published: November 2020

The developments of confirmed daily Sars-CoV-2 infections can be modeled a posteriori in a comparatively simple and satisfactory way by means of a special exponential function: its exponential coefficient varies exponentially with time itself. This property enables the function to directly simulate the „daily case“ curve fragments observed for the first waves of the current epidemics in a number of counties and countries. Linear combinations of two or more of the functions allow for the modeling of the complete curves observed in the vast majority of all regions for which case number developments have been tabulated.
The Coronavirus Pandemic - a Systemic overview
Authors: Diani Sara
Published: November 2020

The Coronavirus pandemic is a major challenge to human wellbeing; it directly affects health, and indirectly involves the economic, politic and social spheres. This, in turn, is going to have major systemic, worldwide health, social and environmental consequences. In this paper, I will briefly sum up the history of the pandemic, the worldwide diffusion, the major different political reactions, as well as health and political countermeasures, and the economic consequences / evaluations for the future. The aim of this paper is to show and address all the different spheres involved and their relationships. Emphasis will be placed on the paradoxical presence of a large amount of data and the big uncertainty for the future. The outcomes will be briefly analyzed on a healthcare, political and socio-economical level. The point of view is systemic with human beings, institutions and the environment seen as a whole. Systemic thinking allows interdisciplinary research to be decisive in understanding the worldwide reaction to the pandemic. The global response to this crisis is of historical significance, and therefore potentially decisive for the multi-layered future of the world.
Automated Supported Liquid Extraction for the analysis of a panel of 12 endogenous steroids in human plasma by LC-MS/MS
Authors: Denham Scott G , Just George , Kyle Catriona J , Richardson Jennifer , Lee Patricia , Simpson Joanna P , Gifford Robert M , Andrew Ruth , Reynolds Rebecca M , Homer Natalie ZM
Published: November 2020

Steroid analysis is important in the clinical assessment of endocrine function in health and disease. Although tandem mass spectrometry methods coupled with chromatographic separation are considered the gold standard analytical technique in this setting, enabling profiling of multiple steroids in a single sample, sample processing can be labour-intensive. Here we present a simple, efficient automated 96-well Supported Liquid Extraction method with dichloromethane/isopropanol as organic solvent, carried out on a Extrahera automated sample handler (Biotage), which completes sample preparation of 80 plasma samples (200µL) in 90 minutes. Compounds were separated on a Kinetex C18 column (150x3mm;2.6um) using a mobile phase of methanol and water (0.1% formic acid). The run time was 16 minutes on a Nexera uHPLC system (Shimadzu) with a QTrap 6500+ linear ion trap mass spectrometer (AB Sciex). Precisions ranged 8.1 to 18.1% RSD, bias -10.1-5.8%, and extraction recoveries 73.5-111.9%. LOQs ranged between 0.025–0.500 ng/mL.
Satellitosis, a Crosstalk Between Neurons, Vascular Structures and Neoplastic Cells in Brain Tumours; Early Manifestation of Invasive Behaviour
Authors: Civita Prospero , Ortenzi Valerio , Naccarato Antonio Giuseppe , Gumbleton Mark , Pilkington Geoffry J.
Published: November 2020

The secondary structures of Scherer commonly known as perineuronal and perivascular satellitosis have been identified as a histopathological hallmark of diffuse, invasive, high-grade gliomas. They are recognized as perineuronal satellitosis when clusters of neoplastic glial cells surround neurons cell bodies and perivascular satellitosis when such tumour cells surround blood vessels infiltrating Virchow-Robin spaces. In this review, we provide an overview of emerging knowledge regarding how interactions between neurons and glioma cells can modulate tumour evolution and how neurons play a key role in glioma growth and progression, as well as the role of perivascular satellitosis into mechanisms of glioma cells spread. At the same time, we review the current knowledge about the role of perineuronal satellitosis and perivascular satellitosis within the tumour microenvironment (TME), in order to highlight critical knowledge gaps in research space.
LA TRAMA PRIMERA DE LA SEGUNDA PARTE Y EL VIAJE A ZARAGOZA (Tramas del Quijote —II—)
Authors: Darnis Pierre
Published: November 2020

¿Por qué se dirige don Quijote hacia Zaragoza en la Segunda parte? Este artículo señala el trasfondo histórico y biográfico que da sentido al viaje menipeo del hidalgo. Si al principio del libro de 1615 don Quijote sigue la idea del cura pretendiendo ir a luchar contra el Turco, el episodio de la cueva de Ruidera interpretado a la luz del romance simultáneamente retrospectivo y profético de Gaiferos, muestra que el encantamiento padecido por Montesinos, Durandarte, Belerma y Dulcinea se corresponde simbólicamente con el de los cautivos en Argel.
Casi y el viejo: en busca de un (no) lugar. La relación espacio-identidad en Cara de pan de Sara Mesa
Authors: S. García Noelia
Published: November 2020

El encuentro fortuito de una adolescente y un hombre maduro en un parque es el punto de partida de Cara de pan, la última novela de Sara Mesa. Forjan una relación que los códigos morales y sociales nunca aceptarían. Únicamente puede entenderse en un espacio que les proporciona anonimato, en un no lugar. El parque les permite mostrarse tal y como son, a la vez que crean un microcosmos en el que van forjando una nueva identidad: Casi y el Viejo. Sin embargo, el absentismo escolar de Casi hace que sus padres terminen descubriendo su amistad con el Viejo y que los organismos institucionales juzguen su relación según los patrones morales que ambos deben cumplir. Ahora Casi debe crear otra nueva identidad para poder ser aceptada dentro de la sociedad. El precio de esta nueva identidad es la ruptura total con el Viejo. Su relación nunca será ni comprendida ni aceptada.
Reliability of Tibiofemoral Contact Area and Centroid Location in Upright, Open MRI
Authors: Schmidt Andrew , Stockton David J. , Hunt Michael A. , Yung Andrew , Masri Bassam A. , Wilson David R.
Published: November 2020

Background:Imaging cannot be performed during natural weightbearing in biomechanical studies using conventional closed-bore MRI, which has necessitated simulating weightbearing load on the joint. Upright, open MRI (UO-MRI) allows for joint imaging during natural weightbearing and may have the potential to better characterize the biomechanical effect of tibiofemoral pathology involving soft tissues. However open MRI scanners have lower field strengths than closed-bore scanners, which limits the image quality that can be obtained. Thus, there is a need to establish the reliability of measurements in upright weightbearing postures obtained using UO-MRI.Methods:Knees of five participants with prior anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture were scanned standing in a 0.5T upright open MRI scanner using a 3D DESS sequence. Manual segmentation of cartilage regions in contact was performed and centroids of these contact areas were automatically determined for the medial and lateral tibiofemoral compartments. Inter-rater, test-retest, and intra-rater reliability were determined and quantified using intra-class correlation (ICC3,1), standard error of measurement (SEM), and smallest detectable change with 95% confidence (SDC95). Accuracy was assessed by using a high-resolution 7T MRI as a reference.Results:Contact area and centroid location reliability (inter-rater, test-retest, and intra-rater) for sagittal scans in the medial compartment had ICC3,1 values from 0.95-0.99 and 0.98-0.99 respectively. In the lateral compartment, contact area and centroid location reliability ICC3,1 values ranged from 0.83-0.91 and 0.95-1.00 respectively. The smallest detectable change in contact area was 1.28% in the medial compartment and 0.95% in the lateral compartment. Contact area and centroid location reliability for coronal scans in the medial compartment had ICC3,1 values from 0.90-0.98 and 0.98-1.00 respectively, and in the lateral compartment ICC3,1 ranged from 0.76-0.94 and 0.93-1.00 respectively. The smallest detectable change in contact area was 0.65% in the medial compartment and 1.41% in the lateral compartment. Contact area was accurate to within a mean absolute error of 11.0 mm2.Conclusions:Knee contact area and contact centroid location can be assessed in upright weightbearing MRI with good to excellent reliability. The lower field strength used in upright, weightbearing MRI does not compromise the reliability of tibiofemoral contact area and centroid location measures.
MRI Outcomes of Nonsurgical Treatment of Giant Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Prospective Clinical Study
Authors: Ma Zhi Jia , Yu Peng Fei , Dai Yu Xiang , Feng Qiu Xiang , Wu Li Ming , Shen Xue Qiang , Jiang Hong , Liu Jin Tao
Published: November 2020

Background: The phenomenon of lumbar disc herniation resorption is increasingly being reported, but the occurrence of this phenomenon cannot currently be accurately predicted.Methods: We acquired magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of patients with giant lumbar disc herniation from January 2018 to December 2019, and analyzed the prognostic value of measurements performed on the images. The patients underwent conservative treatment according to the doctor’s decision. The imaging assessments included Komori points, MSU type, Iwabuchi type, the presence of a “bull’s eye” sign on contrast-enhanced MRI, Modic type classification, initial imaging prominence rate, and maximum level projection area. Post-treatment MRI was reviewed to evaluate the outstanding prominence rate and the maximum level projection area, thereby allowing calculation of the intervertebral disc absorption rate after treatment. The rate of patients undergoing later surgery was also recorded.Results: Seventy-six patients (46 males and 30 females, aged 14–65 years [mean 37.79 ± 10.60]) were included in this study, 12 of whom underwent surgery, giving a surgical rate of 15.79%. All patients were followed up for more than 9 months. The outburst rate was 84.41% ± 14.72%. The absorptivity rate of the 64 patients under conservative treatment was 38.35% ± 40.64%, with the absorptivity of the patients with Iwabuchi type 1 and a bull’s eye sign being significantly higher than the average rate (P < 0.01).Conclusions: The resorption of giant lumbar disc herniation is a natural process. Imaging findings showed Iwabuchi type 1 and a positive bull’s eye sign on contrast-enhanced MRI to be associated with an increased probability of resorption.
Nucleoporin-93 overexpression overcomes multiple nucleocytoplsamic trafficking bottlenecks to permit robust metastasis
Authors: Nataraj Nishanth , Noronha Ashish , Lee Joo , Ghosh Soma , Raju Harsha Raj Mohan , Sekar Arunachalam , Zuckerman Binyamin , Lindzen Moshit , Srivast Swati , Selitrennik Michael , Livneh Ido , Drago-Garcia Diana , Rueda Oscar , Caldas Carlos , Lev Sima , Geiger Tamar , Ciechanover Aaron , Ulitsky Igor , Seger Rony , Ruppin Eytan , Yarden Yosef
Published: November 2020

To identify genetic events driving breast cancer progression, we performed multi-omics integrated analyses that identified overexpression of nucleoporin-93, a nuclear pore component. Here we show that NUP93 overexpression enhances trans-endothelial migration and matrix invasion in vitro, along with metastasis in animal models. These findings were supported by analyses of naturally occurring activating NUP93 mutations and inactivating nephrotic syndrome mutations. Mechanistically, NUP93 activation enhanced the ultimate nuclear transport step shared by multiple signaling pathways, including TGF-beta/SMAD, EGF/ERK and TNF/NF-κB. Likewise, NUP93 can boost nuclear transport of beta-catenin, as well as elevate expression and inhibit degradation of this co-activator. The emerging addiction to nuclear transport exposes vulnerabilities of tumors overexpressing NUP93. Congruently, we report that myristoylated peptides corresponding to the nuclear translocation signals of SMAD and ERK inhibited growth and metastasis. Our study illuminates a previously unappreciated hallmark of advanced tumors, which derive benefit from unblocking a set of nucleocytoplasmic bottlenecks.
How Did the Restrictions Effect the Orthopaedic Trauma Surgery During Covid-19 Pandemic at a Level 1 Tertiary Trauma Hospital?
Authors: Kilic Bulent , Gulabi Deniz , Agar Anıl , Buyukdogan Halil , Sahin Adem , Eren Erdal , Erturk Cemil
Published: November 2020

BackgroundThe aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the demographic characteristics, the trauma mechanism, and fracture types between patients under 20 years of age, 20-65 years of age, and over 65 years of age between the COVID-19 pandemic and the pre-pandemic period.MethodsPatients who were hospitalized and treated for orthopedic treatment between 10 March and 1 June during the pandemic period were retrospectively analyzed. Control group consisted of patients admitted to the hospital in the same time interval in 2019.The patients were divided into three groups, under 20 years of age, between 20-65 years of age, and over 65 years of age. The patients’ data included age, gender, trauma mechanism, fracture type, any COVID-19 radiological or clinical symptoms.ResultsThe number of patients > 65 years old admitted to orthopaedic trauma center were high at pandemic interval compared to pre-pandemic time. When the groups were compared for patients of 20-65 years old; there was a significant difference for the fracture type (p<0.05). Lower extremity fractures were high at pre-pandemic group whereas multiple traumas were high at pandemic group. For sub-group 20-65 ages, low energy traumas were higher at pre-pandemic group whereas high energy traumas were more frequent at pandemic group.ConclusionWe observed a decrease in fracture admission to ortopaedic trauma centers during COVID-19 pandemic for subgroups of < 20 years old and 20-65 years old ages, whereas there was a significant increase for > 65 years old age, most of them related to the osteoporotic hip fractures. So that older age group should be encouraged to mobilized at home and have permission to walk and make physical activity to avoid osteoporosis for a limited time daily.
Quaternized carbon quantum dots with broad-spectrum antibacterial activity for treatment of wounds infected with mixed bacteria
Authors: Cheng-fei Zhao , Wang Xuewen , Yu Luying , Wu Lina , Hao Xiaoli , Qicai Liu , Li-qing Lin , Huang Zhengjun , Weng Shaohuang , Liu Ailin , Lin Xinhua
Published: November 2020

Quaternized carbon quantum dots (qCQDs) with broad-spectrum antibacterial activity were synthesized by a simple green “one-pot” method using dimethyl diallyl ammonium chloride and glucose as reaction precursors. The qCQDs showed satisfactory antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. In rat models of wounds infected with mixed bacteria, qCQDs obviously restored the weight of rats, significantly reduced the death of rats from severe infection, and promoted the recovery and healing of infected wounds. Biosafety tests confirmed that qCQDs had no obvious toxic and side effects during the testing stage. The analysis of quantitative proteomics revealed that qCQDs mainly acted on the ribosomal proteins of gram-positive bacteria and significantly down-regulated the metabolization-related proteins of gram-negative bacteria. Real-time quantitative PCR verified the expression levels of genes corresponding to the proteins with significant differences expressed by the two species of bacteria after treated with qCQDs. The variation trend of the detected genes was consistent with the results of proteomics, meaning that qCQDs played the antibacterial effect on bacteria with a new antibacterial mechanism.
Landslide Susceptibility Analysis: A Case Study of Nainital Municipal Area
Authors: Bhattacharyya Prashasti , DasGupta Shubhanita , Das Sourav , Paul Suchismita
Published: November 2020

Landslides are one of the most recurrent natural phenomena that are of overwhelming significance in the Himalayas. The Himalayan terrain being under severe transmutation by human interference and excess urban penetration has led to triggering of landslides along with causing colossal damage to property and loss of life. Immense risk looms large all along the Himalayas with cumulating conditions that build the potentiality to landslides. The study of landslides has drawn worldwide attention mainly due to the aggravating socio-economic consequences as well as the increasing pressure of urbanization on the mountain environment. In order to reduce the damage and manage vulnerable areas, there is imperative need to formulate comprehensive Landslide Vulnerability and Susceptibility Zonation maps for different areas of the Himalayan region emphasizing the urbanized and burgeoning pockets. The concept of landslide susceptibility and landslide susceptibility assessment have been introduced in the past couple of decades and various methodologies have been developed for evaluating the devastating power of landslides and its associated processes. The ultimate aim is to evolve a method suitable for specific areas through which appropriate management measures can be taken to reduce the risk from potential landslides. Any approach towards LSZ would require identification of the conditions leading to slope failure, their systematic mapping and evaluation of their relative contributions by amalgamation of all factors in the ultimatum. The aim of this paper is to assess the various landslide vulnerability factors in Nainital Municipality area on raster-based GIS platform and generate landslide vulnerability and susceptibility maps. To achieve the objective, a detailed inventory of maps based on all parameters assessed has been generated of the study area from the satellite imageries and field data. The accuracy of results is being validated by constant observation and prediction accuracies.
Treatment of Bacterial Vaginosis: A Comparison of Metronidazole and Clindamycin on Human Anaerobic Bacteria and Lactobacilli
Authors: Li Ting , Wang Fengjuan , Zhang Zhan , Zong Xiaonan , Bai Huihui , Liu Zhaohui
Published: November 2020

Background: Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a disturbance of vaginal microflora that affects up to one-third of women of reproductive age. To compare the frequencies, clinical characteristics, and antimicrobial susceptibilities of vaginal microbes before and after metronidazole and clindamycin therapy. Results: A total of 140 premenopausal women with BV and 10 healthy women who underwent routine gynecological examination and were examined by the Vaginal Microecology Evaluation System at Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital between October 2018 and February 2019 were recruited for this study. Gardnerella (G.) vaginalis and Lactobacillus isolates were isolated and cultured. Clinical isolates were then evaluated for antimicrobial susceptibilities in vitro to metronidazole and clindamycin. Nested PCR and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis were used to characterize the quantitative structure of bacterial signatures. Facultatively anaerobic bacteria including G. vaginalis (40.31 %), Prevotella isolates (14.89 %) and Atopobium (A.) vaginae (4.65 %) were among the most frequently isolated species among the 129 samples. The clinical isolates had a significantly higher susceptibility rate to clindamycin than to metronidazole (80.00% vs 32.14%; P = 0.002) in vitro. Conclusions: Given metronidazole sparing Lactobacillus, metronidazole has better vaginal acidification than clindamycin in vivo. The CDC-recommended regimens for BV management with metronidazole and clindamycin were demonstrated to have roughly equivalent clinical efficacy. We recommend administering Lactobacillus probiotics 5 to 7 days after the last antibiotic dose when choosing clindamycin therapy.