bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kelayakan Finansial Pengembangan Usaha Tani dalam Suatu Wilayah Lingkar Tambang Emas di Kabupaten Bombana, Provinsi Sulawesi Tenggara
Authors: Iswandi R. Marsuki , Baco La , Yunus Lukman , Alwi La Ode
Published: March 2018

English
Gold mining have positive contribution to the regional economic growth, but cause negative impacts to farmers in the mining ring area. The purpose of this study is to evaluate financial feasibility of farming and to identify the best farming practices within a gold mining ring area in Bombana District of Southeast Sulawesi Province. Data were collected through personal interviews with farmers and focused group discussion using the word cafe format. The respondents consist of purposively selected 90 farmers and 37 resource persons representing stakeholders. Financial feasibility was analyzed using the B/C ratio and the farming best practices were selected using the Multi Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) analysis through the Preference Ranking Organization for Enrichment Evaluation (PROMETHEE). The study shows that there are three types of land in the mining ring area, namely, land that is not mined, land that has not been mined, and land that has been mined. All crops cultivated by farmers are financially feasible. The PROMETHEE analysis shows that the non-mined land should be developed for plantation crops, the land that has not been mined is best for food crop farmings; and the mined land is best utilized for forestry crops.

Indonesian
Pertambangan emas dapat memberikan kontribusi positif terhadap pertumbuhan ekonomi wilayah, namun juga berdampak negatif terhadap petani di wilayah lingkar tambang. Penelitian bertujuan untuk mengetahui kelayakan finansial usaha tani dan mengidentifikasi usaha tani apakah yang sebaiknya dilakukan di wilayah lingkar tambang emas. Penelitian dilaksanakan di Wilayah Lingkar Tambang Emas Kabupaten Bombana, Provinsi Sulawesi Tenggara. Pengumpulan data dilakukan melalui wawancara dengan petani wakil usaha tani setiap tanaman dan focused group discussion dengan format word cafe. Responden terdiri dari 90 orang masyarakat petani yang dipilih secara sengaja dan 37 orang narasumber wakil pemangku kepentingan. Analisis kelayakan finansial dilakukan dengan metode rasio penerimaan terhadap biaya, sedangkan pemilihan alternatif usaha tani dilakukan dengan analisis Multi Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) melalui Preference Ranking Organization for Enrichment Evaluation (PROMETHEE). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa dalam wilayah lingkar tambang terdapat tiga jenis lahan, yakni lahan yang tidak ditambang, lahan yang belum ditambang, dan lahan yang sudah ditambang. Semua jenis tanaman yang diusahakan petani layak diusahakan secara finansial. Hasil analisis PROMETHEE mendapatkan bahwa lahan yang tidak ditambang sebaiknya dikembangkan usaha tani tanaman perkebunan; lahan yang belum ditambang pilihan utamanya untuk usaha tani tanaman pangan; dan lahan yang sudah ditambang sebaiknya dimanfaatkan untuk usaha tani tanaman kehutanan.
Prevalence of Orofacial Changes in Wind Instrumentalists: A Cross-Sectional Pilot Study in Brazil
Authors: Glória José CR , Balestra Amanda A , Iasbik Nayara S , Douglas-de-Oliveira Dhelfeson W , Flecha Olga D , Gonçalves Patricia F
Published: March 2018

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to identify the prevalence of orofacial changes and factors associated with the frequent playing of wind instruments by musicians in Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 40 professional musicians
who played wind instruments. The musicians filled out questionnaires about their habits and musical career. The Research Diagnostic Criteria were applied to investigate temporomandibular disorders. Other oral parameters examined included periodontal status, plaque index, and decayed, missing,
and filled teeth (DMF) index. A significance level of p<0.05 was adopted for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The population included 22 (55%) men and 18 (45%) women, with a mean age of 25.88 yrs. The most common instruments played were the saxophone (n=12, 30%), clarinet (n=9, 22.5%), and
flute (n=6, 15%). The most frequent pain complaint after playing was numbness in the upper lip or no sensation (25% of musicians), and the most frequent dental change observed was inclination of the upper teeth (15% of musicians). There was no significant association between dental changes,
pain, and classification of instrument type. CONCLUSION: The main oral change that affected musicians who played wind instruments was the inclination of anterior teeth.
Impact of Changes in Playing Time on Playing-Related Musculoskeletal Pain in String Music Students
Authors: Robitaille Judith , Tousignant-Laflamme Yannick , Guay Manon
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND: During their training, musicians must develop good work habits that they will carry on throughout their professional career in order to avoid potential chronic health problems, such as musculoskeletal pain. The effect of sudden changes in instrument playing-time on the development
of playing-related musculoskeletal pain (PRMP) has not been thoroughly investigated in music students playing bowed string instruments (BSI), even though they are regularly exposed to such changes to perfect their playing skills. OBJECTIVE: To explore the association between sudden changes
in instrument playing-time and changes in PRMP in BSI players. METHODS: A prospective cohort study was completed with BSI students attending a summer music camp offering high-level training. Participants completed a self-administered 23-item questionnaire designed for the study upon arrival
at camp (T1) and then 7 days later (T2). RESULTS: Ninety-three BSI students (16±4 yrs old) completed the questionnaires, for a 23% response rate. Their playing-time increased by 23±14 hrs between T1 and T2. Complaints in pain frequency (e.g., from never to most of the time) and
intensity (19±24 mm on VAS) significantly increased between T1 and T2 and were correlated with an increase in playing-time. CONCLUSION: A sudden increase in playing-time, such as that experienced by elite BSI students attending an intensive music camp, was related to an increase in
PRMP. However, in this study, changes in pain characteristics were only partly explained by the change in playing-time.
Teaching statistical appreciation in quantitative methods
Authors: Mitchell Peter
Published: March 2018

Statistical appreciation is the knowledge about statistical tests, how they are chosen, the procedure and interpretation of the results, without the calculations of the test statistic.  This was taught as part of quantitative methods to students taking part-time degrees when there was insufficient time to include training on statistical computer packages.  Details of the content, teaching methods and assessment are given, with stress on correct understanding of P-values and interpretation as statistical significance.  Given that many more people need to understand the results and interpretation of statistical tests than to do the calculations, statistical appreciation is of general value, especially to research supervisors.  It also provides a firm base for further learning and training in statistics.
Empleo de sensores alternativos de bajo coste para la medida del contenido volumétrico del agua en el suelo. Estudios preliminares
Authors: Fernández López Antonio
Published: March 2018

Uno de los métodos más empleados que permiten gestionar eficientemente el agua de riego en agricultura es establecer un balance hídrico. Esto consiste en suministrar a la planta la cantidad de agua que necesita en todo momento mediante el uso de medidas de sensores de humedad del suelo. La limitación del uso de estos sensores de humedad se debe frecuentemente a su elevado precio, a la diversidad de técnicas en las que se basa su funcionamiento y a la dificultad de adaptación a todo tipo de suelos, entre otras razones. Las sondas capacitivas FDR (Frequency Domain Reflectometry) han resultado ser de las más adecuadas por su robustez en la medida y sus posibilidades de automatización. Teniendo en cuenta lo anterior, se presenta un experimento donde se compara la gestión del riego de un cultivo mediante el uso de sondas comerciales de capacitancia FDR con un prototipo de sondas de bajo coste del mismo tipo. Se discuten algunos de los resultados obtenidos con estas sondas además de aspectos económicos y de diseño. Mediante el prototipo estudiado se consiguen ahorros potenciales de agua, energía y costes.
Sismicidad y seguridad estructural en las construcciones: lecciones aprendidas en México
Authors: Pérez-Gavilán Juan José , Aguirre Jorge , Ramírez Leonardo
Published: March 2018

Con la motivación de los eventos sísmicos recientes se revisa el ambiente sísmico en el que el país está inmerso y su sismicidad. Los mecanismos y regiones de generación de los sismos. Se mencionan algunos de los parámetros que determinan la intensidad a diferencia de la magnitud de los sismos y la forma de hacer predicciones con los datos provenientes de las estaciones sismológicas, mediante las funciones de atenuación. Se muestra como los colapsos de las estructuras tras el sismo del 19 de septiembre, en la Ciudad de México, se alinean en la zona de transición entre la vieja zona lacustre del valle de México y la zona de lomas. En la parte estructural se presentan los criterios básicos de diseño y cómo los reglamentos de construcción intentan establecer cuál debe ser el desempeño de las estructuras ante acciones de distinta intensidad y frecuencia. Se da un ejemplo de la relación que existe entre resistencia, daño y desempeño estructural. Se presentan algunos daños observados y se hacen algunas reflexiones sobre los aspectos que influyen en la seguridad de las construcciones y que deberían mejorarse.
Productivity, Nutrient, and Soil Enzymes Influenced with Conservation Agriculture Practices in Peanut
Authors: Jain N.K. , Jat R.S. , Meena H.N. , Chakraborty K.
Published: March 2018

Core Ideas

Peanut–wheat–Sesbania cropping system recorded the highest peanut–pod equivalent yield.

Peanut–wheat–Sesbania/ green gram markedly increased soil enzymatic activities.

Bulk density decreased in peanut‐CTW and peanut + pigeonpea crop rotations.

Peanut (Arachis hypogaeaL.) is a soil‐C depleting crop under a continuous monocropping system. A study was conducted comprising combinations of tillage practices (zero tillage [ZT] or conventional tillage [CT]), crop rotation (sole peanut, peanut‐wheat [Triticum aestivumL.], or peanut+pigeonpea [Cajanus cajanL.]), and green manuring (GM) (green gram [Vigna radiataL.], sesbania [Sesbania aculeataWilld.], or wheat straw incorporation [WSI]). Peanut pod yield was found higher in peanut followed by wheat either zero tilled (ZTW) or conventional tilled (CTW), and GM either with sesbania/green gram/WSI. Green manuring in peanut–ZTW and peanut+pigeonpea recorded higher grain yield of wheat (3.11 t ha−1) and pigeonpea (1.76 t ha−1), respectively. Sesbania GM increased root biomass of peanut, wheat, and pigeonpea in all the systems. Peanut‐pod equivalent yield recorded significantly higher in peanut–ZTW or CTW when included GM with either sesbania or green gram (3.64 t ha−1). Found higher accumulation of soil N in peanut–ZTW–sesbania (33.8 kg ha−1), P in peanut–CTW (6.4 kg ha−1), and S in peanut–CTW (3.7 kg ha−1) crop rotations. Activities of urease, β‐glucosidase, acid phosphatase, and alkaline phosphatase were increased in all the crop rotations that included green manuring or WSI over sole peanut. Soil bulk density (0–15 cm depth) was recorded lower in peanut–CTW, however, higher in peanut–ZTW. Peanut followed by ZTW or CTW and green manuring either with sesbania or green gram found more sustainable than sole peanut in terms of peanut‐pod equivalent yield and improved soil enzyme activities.
Design and Construction of Mowing Track for Turfgrass Experimentation in Greenhouses
Authors: Braun Ross C. , Hoyle Jared A. , Reeves Jacob A. , Flessner Michael L. , McElroy J. Scott
Published: March 2018

Core Ideas

Common hand‐mowing methods can consume large amounts of time in turfgrass greenhouse experiments.

There is minimal publication on greenhouse mowing apparatuses for turfgrass research.

Utilizing a mowing track can save time and labor compared to greenhouse hand‐mowing methods.

A mowing track provides a more uniform height of cut compared to other greenhouse mowing methods.

Common hand‐mowing methods require large amounts of time and may not provide a uniform height of cut in turfgrass greenhouse experiments. Greenhouse mowing apparatuses are not uncommon in turfgrass research; however, there is little literature on apparatus specifications. Therefore, a simplified mowing track for turfgrass greenhouse experimentation was designed, built, and tested. An experiment was conducted to examine the differences in mowing time required and mowing uniformity among four greenhouse mowing methods. The amount of time required to set up and mow ranged from 0.74 to 1.18 min m−2 for the mowing track, 6.44 to 6.70 min m−2 with hand shears, 6.82 to 7.49 min m−2 with hedge shears, and 2.95 to 3.37 min m−2 with sheep shears. The mowing track resulted in less variation in height of cut compared to the other tested methods. Overall, a mowing track can save time, labor, and provide a more uniform height of cut compared with other greenhouse mowing methods.
Spring Wheat Response to Supplemental Nutrient Additions under Silty Clay Loam Soils of Minnesota
Authors: Chatterjee Amitava
Published: March 2018

Core Ideas

Spring wheat did not respond to additional nutrients beside recommended nitrogen.

Seed inoculation with Trichoderma spp. did not impact yield or protein.

Additional P, Cu, Zn, and S did not change grain protein.

Nutrient management is critical for improving spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) yield and protein content. During 2014 to 2016, field experiments were conducted to determine the potential of nutrient applications with recommended nitrogen (N) to improve wheat production near Glyndon, MN. Treatments were additions of phosphorus (P), sulfur (S), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn), alone or in combination, and inoculation with growth promoting bacteria (Trichoderma spp.) in addition to recommended nitrogen (N) fertilizer on grain yield and protein content. Growing year had a significant effect (P < 0.05) on yield and protein content. Applications of mono ammonium phosphate (11–52–0) at the rate of 40 lb P2O5/ac and combined applications of Cu, Zn, and S increased grain yield over the recommended treatment and check, in 2015 only. There was no significant impact on grain protein content by the applied treatments. In this study, supplemental additions of nutrients did not increase spring wheat yield and protein content.
Simulating Soil Organic Carbon Responses to Cropping Intensity, Tillage, and Climate Change in Pacific Northwest Dryland
Authors: Gollany Hero T. , Polumsky Robert W.
Published: March 2018

Managing dryland cropping systems to increase soil organic C (SOC) under changing climate is challenging after decades of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)–fallow and moldboard plow tillage (W–F/MP). The objective was to use CQESTR, a process‐based C model, and SOC data collected in 2004, 2008, and 2012 to predict the best management to increase SOC under changing climate in four cropping systems, which included continuous wheat under no tillage (W–W/NT), wheat and sorghum × sudangrass [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench. × Sorghum sudanese L.] under no tillage, wheat–fallow under sweep tillage, and W–F/MP. Since future yields and climate are uncertain, 20 scenarios for each cropping system were simulated with four climate projections and five crop yield scenarios (current crop yields, and 10 or 30% greater or lesser yields). Measured and simulated SOC were significantly (p < 0.0001) correlated (r = 0.98) at all soil depths. Predicted SOC changes ranged from −12.03 to 2.56 Mg C ha−1 in the 1‐m soil depth for W–F/MP and W–W/NT, respectively, during the 2012 to 2052 predictive period. Only W–W/NT sequestered SOC at a rate of 0.06 Mg C ha−1 yr−1 under current crop yields and climate. Under climate change and yield scenarios, W–W/NT lost SOC except with a 30% wheat yield increase for 40 yr. Predicted SOC increases in W–W/NT were 0.71, 1.16, and 0.88 Mg C ha−1 under the Oregon Climate Assessment Reports for low emissions and high emissions and the Regional Climate Model version 3 with boundary conditions from the Third Generation Coupled Global Climate Model, respectively, with 30% yield increases. Continuous no‐till cropping would increase SOC and improve soil health and resiliency to lessen the impact of extreme weather.

Core Ideas

Measured and CQESTR‐simulated SOC were significantly correlated at all soil depths.

Continuous wheat with no tillage increased SOC unless yield was reduced by 30% or more.

Wheat yield increase is needed to maintain SOC in continuous wheat under climate change.

Dryland cropping systems will have SOC losses unless yield and biomass input is increased.

Soil organic C loss rates increased with tillage intensity and increased fallow period.
Water‐Extractable Phosphorus in Animal Manure and Manure Compost: Quantities, Characteristics, and Temporal Changes
Authors: Liu Jian , Spargo John T. , Kleinman Peter J. A. , Meinen Robert , Moore Philip A. , Beegle Douglas B.
Published: March 2018

Water‐extractable P (WEP) in manure and manure compost is widely used as an indicator of P release to runoff from manure and compost that are land applied. A survey of 600 manures and composts was conducted to assess trends in WEP (dry weight equivalent) related to manure and compost types from sources in the Mid‐Atlantic region. Manure and compost WEP ranged from 0.2 to 20.8 g kg−1. Mean WEP was highest in turkey and swine manures (manure: 4.1–5.6 g kg−1; no composts tested), followed by layer and broiler chicken manures (manure: 3.0–3.5 g kg−1; compost: 4.6–5.1 g kg−1), cattle manure (dairy and beef manure: 2.1–2.8 g kg−1; compost: 1.1–2.7 g kg−1), and horse manure (manure: 2.7 g kg−1; compost: 1.9 g kg−1). Across all manures and composts, WEP was negatively correlated with manure dry matter content (r = 0.42, p < 0.001). Moreover, WEP was strongly correlated (r = 0.66, p < 0.001) to degree of P saturation expressed as a molar ratio of total P to total metals (Ca, Mg, Fe, Al, and Mn). Although WEP levels of beef, broiler chicken, and turkey manures from this survey are similar to those from a decade ago, WEP is now significantly lower for dairy (30%, p < 0.001), swine (46%, p < 0.001), and layer chickens (39%, p < 0.05). Lower WEP resulted from decreasing total P and/or increasing P sorption capacity, combined with increasing dry matter content. Results highlight the potential to use degree of P saturation to predict WEP and suggest an opportunity to reduce WEP by managing manure handling, storage, and chemistry.

Core Ideas

Water‐extractable P (WEP) and WEP/total P ratio vary widely across animal manures.

Total P/total metals in manure and compost can be used to estimate degree of P saturation.

WEP is strongly correlated with degree of P saturation in manure and compost.

Current manure WEP in the US Northeast is generally lower than a decade ago.

The properties of different manures can be used to guide practices to minimize P solubility.
Eventos Religiosos: A Festa de Nossa Senhora das Candeias e seus Impactos nos Meios de Hospedagem de Jaguaribe - Ceará
Authors: Castro Victor Hugo Santos de , Lima Francisca Erisnete Gomes de
Published: March 2018

Este estudo aborda os eventos religiosos, em especial a festa de Nossa Senhora das Candeias em Jaguaribe-Ceará. A pesquisa teve como objetivo analisar os impactos da festividade nos meios de hospedagem no referido cenário. Os objetivos específicos foram: avaliar as relações dos meios de hospedagem com a equipe responsável pelo evento religioso; comparar a taxa de ocupação dos meios de hospedagem no período da festa com os demais meses do ano; identificar as estratégias de marketing utilizadas pelos meios de hospedagem na ocasião festiva; verificar forças e fraquezas dos meios de hospedagem na hospitalidade do hóspede e a visão do gestor quanto ao mercado hoteleiro. Quanto à metodologia, a pesquisa teve uma abordagem qualitativa, utilizando a entrevista com instrumento para a obtenção dos dados, a mesma foi gravada e transcrita para posterior análise. A pesquisa aponta como resultados, a elevação da taxa de ocupação dos meios de hospedagem na ocasião da festividade, a falta de comunicação entre a equipe organizadora do evento e os meios de hospedagem, poucas estratégias de marketing que corroborem para atrair mais visitantes e potenciais clientes, a importância dada à hospitalidade pelos gestores na estada dos hóspedes, visão limitada da gestão dos empreendimentos hoteleiros quanto à hotelaria da região. O estudo concluiu que a Festa de Nossa Senhora das Candeias contribui para uma maior visibilidade do município, fomentando o turismo e a economia do local, mas que estratégias devem ser adotadas para que o evento ganhe proporções maiores e se torne referência.
Turismo Religioso: Um Estudo sobre a Demanda de um Roteiro Turístico das Igrejas Católicas do Centro de Fortaleza - Ceará - Brasil
Authors: Dos Anjos Gilberg Serpa , Ferreira Lima Anna Erika
Published: March 2018

O objetivo do presente artigo foi analisar a viabilidade de um Roteiro Turístico voltado para o segmento religioso no centro de Fortaleza. O Ceará é um destino turístico consolidado no Brasil, e o desenvolvimento de um roteiro como esse poderia surgir como uma alternativa de turismo cultural. Como base metodológica esta pesquisa teve o estudo de caso e como métodos de execução contou com a pesquisa bibliográfica, a documental e a pesquisa de campo, onde foram aplicados 45 questionários junto à turistas durante os meses de janeiro e fevereiro de 2017, além de diário de campo, onde foram feitas anotações referentes à falas dos turistas entrevistados. Esses instrumentais tiveram importância fundamental para analisar a possibilidade da implantação de um roteiro cultural e religioso referente às igrejas católicas do Centro da Capital Cearense. Como resultado foi elaborado um mapa do supracitado roteiro, bem como efetivado o levantamento geo-histórico de tais atrativos religiosos culturais.
Purchase Unwillingness and Willingness of Indonesian Consumers towards Israeli Products
Authors: Suhud Usep
Published: March 2018

This research aimed to measure factors influencing purchase willingness and purchase unwillingness on Israeli products. Four predictor variables including consumer animosity, product judgment, boycott participation, and boycott motivation were used. Data were collected by an online survey, and it attracted 337 participants. Three stages of data analysis were applied, those were exploratory analyses, confirmatory factor analyses, and Structural Equation Model (SEM). In total, there were seven hypotheses tested. This research finds a significant impact of animosity on product judgment, boycott participation, and boycott motivation. Furthermore, product judgment and boycott participation significantly affect purchase willingness. Meanwhile, boycott participation and boycott motivation significantly affect purchase unwillingness.
Impact of Direct and Indirect Tax on the Nigerian Economic Growth
Authors: Ogundana Oyebisi Mary , Ogundana Oyedele Mary , Ogundana Oyeyemi Mercy , Ibidunni Ayodotun Stephen , Adetoyinbo Adebola
Published: March 2018

This research examined the direct and indirect impact of taxation on the Nigerian economic growth. This research centered on two major objectives by focusing on the trend of direct and indirect tax and the impact of the Nigerian tax system on the growth of the economy.  The research adopted the descriptive research design.  The secondary source of data was also engaged as this data was from CBN statistical bulletin and the annual reports from 1994-2013. The research also used the ordinary least square regression technique. With the use of E-views 7.1 to analyze the data, the first objective was achieved by using graphical analysis while the second objective used ordinary least square regression analysis. The results reveal that the direct and indirect tax have a positive impact on the economy of Nigeria. Therefore, it is recommended that government should take advantage of taxation and promote tax system in Nigeria.
Do Leading Macroeconomic Factors Impact on Optimal Portfolio Return in Indonesia?
Authors: Nugroho Bayu Adi , Juwono Edhi , Wijayanti Inung
Published: March 2018

There were two objectives in this research. Those were to construct an optimal portfolio and to analyze the impact of inflation, Bank of Indonesia (BI rate), and Rupiah to US Dollars exchange rate to the optimal portfolio return in Indonesia. The constant correlation portfolio model and ordinary least square regression method were implemented. This research used the stocks from the consistently selected stocks in the Bisnis-27 Index from 2012 to 2016. Microsoft Excel 2010 was used to construct an optimal portfolio. Meanwhile, to compute the regression and statistical analysis, SPSS version 20 was utilized. The obtained results show that only the stocks from PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia, PT Kalbe Farma, PT Charoen Pokphand Indonesia, PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia, PT Bank Central Asia, and PT Bank Negara Indonesia are included in the optimal portfolio. In addition, from the three leading macroeconomic indicators, only exchange rate change (Rupiah to US Dollars rate of change) impacts the return of the constant correlation model portfolio in Bisnis-27 Index significantly and negatively.
Study of User Acceptance and Satisfaction of a Mandatory Government-Regulated Information System
Authors: Wibowo Tony
Published: March 2018

This paper discusses the user acceptance of a mandatory government-regulated information system. The issue is investigated by using a modified UTAUTframework. From random sample data of 65 respondents, a regression model is established from which the conclusion is drawn. The study concludes that theaspects of performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and information system quality affect the user acceptance. The four aspects are equally important.
Socio-Technological Factors Influencing the Use of GSM in Communication and Sustainable Development in Nigeria
Authors: Omiunu Ojinga Gideon
Published: March 2018

The study investigates the influence of social and technological problems/factors and the use of GSM in communication towards ensuring sustainable development in Nigeria. The multi-stage sampling technique is used for this study. The local governments are divided into two major strata, and from each stratum, one local government is selected randomly. From the Ibadan-lesscity, Akinyele local government is selected, and from Ibadan urban, it is Ibadan North East. Also, since the population of GSM users are unknown, a convenientsampling technique is deployed to select 200 respondents. The result reveals that although GSM users are satisfied with the reliability of the communication by mobile phones, some problems exist. Those problems are network issues, inability to perceive what the person at the other end is doing, and mistrust and distrust among speakers. Those problems have affected the satisfaction and use of GSM. In addition, some personal, social, and technological factors influence the efficient and nonefficient use of GSM (p < 0:05). As a result, users deploy various strategies to ameliorate these problems. Finally, GSM use among mobile users has a significant effect on users development (p < 0:05), which can bepersonal or communal. It is recommended that telecommunication should upgrade the system to encourage good interpersonal communication among GSM users and also consider some personal and social factors to enhance theefficiency use of GSM that will have sustainable impact on lives.
The Implementation of Quality Function Deployment (QFD) in Tire Industry
Authors: Hadi Hari Abdul , Purba Humiras Hardi , Indarto Kurnia Sigma , Simarmata Rorio Gomgom Paska , Putra Guntur Pratama , Ghazali Dabith , Aisyah Siti
Published: March 2018

This research had two main objectives. The first research objective was to make the right design of new product according to customer requirements with the implementation of Quality Function Deployment (QFD) in the tire industry. The second research objective was to enhance competitiveness based on the renewal of marketing strategy and consumer needs, non-explosive prohibition, non-slip tires, no bulgy, and competitive prices. The research was carried out by using costumer satisfaction rating by comparing with the competitor companies. Based on calculation using QFD method, it shows that split liner has the highest percentage of technical requirement in tire industry about 30,57%. The second factor is pattern design about 25,98%. Then, the third factor is compound technology about 22,68%. Therefore, the researchers can recommend several strategies for the quality improvement based on customer needs for the tire industry.
An Analysis of Bitcoin Acceptance in Indonesia
Authors: Gunawan Fergyanto E. , Novendra Rizki
Published: March 2018

This research intended to understand the factors affecting the acceptance of Bitcoin technology in Indonesia. It adopted the model of Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), which took into account four influencing factors. Those were performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions. The factors of gender and age were assumed to moderate the relations between those four factors and use and behavioral intention. The empirical data for those factors were collected by questionnaires from 49 respondents. The statistical significance of the relationships was evaluated by multivariate regression analysis. The result is a model that matches the data with R2 = 0,678. It demonstrates a high level of fitness. The analysis suggests that the performance expectancy factor and the social influence factor greatly affect the behavioral intention to use Bitcoin with the values of t-statistic of 3,835 (p-value = 0,000) for the former factor and 1,948 (0,059) for the latter factor. However, the social influence factor has less profound effect on the behavioral intention.
Children’s Quality and Quantity in Nigeria: A Granger Causality Analysis
Authors: K. A. Olabiyi , O.O. Awe
Published: March 2018

This research investigated the cointegration and causal relationships between children’s quality and quantity in Nigeria. The research was based on secondary data obtained from the World Development Indicator database (1980-2014), United Nations Statistics Division's Statistical Yearbook, and the UNESCO Institute for statistics online database. Children’s quality denoted by the education of the child was proxied by government education expenditure and life expectancy rate, while the quantity of the children denoted by the size of the family was proxied by total fertility rate, infant mortality rate, and the adolescent fertility rate. For analysis, Augmented Dickey Fuller unit root test, Johansen-Juselius cointegration analysis, and Granger causality tests were conducted. Johansen-Juselius cointegration test results indicate that there is a long-term relationship among the selected variables. Meanwhile, the Granger causality test shows that the causation between the quality and quantity of children is both unidirectional and bi-directional depending on the variable of the quantity of children. The quantity of the children is the cause in the unidirectional causation. Furthermore, a trade-off is established between the quality and quantity of children. Therefore, the policies of the government in encouraging and promoting the reduction of the rate of fertility should be pursued further for an increased level of education of the child.
Power Distance between Teacher and Students in Learning Process Based on Curriculum 2013 (Case Study: SDN Babakan 02, Setu, Tangerang Selatan)
Authors: Vusparatih Dina Sekar
Published: March 2018

This study talked the high power distance level between teachers and students in Indonesian society, especially in public schools. Creating two-way communication in intercultural communication that had high power distance will be a big challenge for teachers. This study used the qualitative method and the case study in of SDN Babakan 02, Setu, South Tangerang. It would see how the teacher's efforts in reducing the power distance that was in the learning process when the implementation of Curriculum 2013. Using in-depth interview and observation technique, all data needed was collected. In the end, this research has captured that teachers still need to know more about the Curriculum 2013. To share power distance as part of the curriculum is still difficult since the teachers do not have same understanding and perspective about K13.
The Influence of Cosplaying in Increasing Japanese Language and Culture Learning at Binus University
Authors: Wishnoebroto Wishnoebroto , Prabowo Roberto Masami , Jhon Alex
Published: March 2018

This research was intended to see the prospect of whether the significance of cosplay subculture had given certain influence towards these colorful communities. The target population was Bina Nusantara University students who were either in Japanese Department or those who were interested in Japanese culture. By utilizing the online questionnaire, this research used qualitative random sampling approach and expected to be used as a reference in designing the future curriculum since it was quite applicable and relevant to the condition in Indonesia. Based on the findings, cosplaying has been proven to be a beneficial activity that may help and motivate the learners to understand Japanese language and culture. Finally, the researchers suggest building Japanese language curricula based on the cosplaying activity that may be implemented soon to attract Japanese enthusiasts.
Assessing English Students` Vocabulary Size of Lampung State Islamic University
Authors: Kurniawan Iwan
Published: March 2018

The aims of this research were to measure the English students’ vocabulary size as well to measure the students’ vocabulary size which was less and more than 1000 words. The research method that the researcher used was quantitative with 209 students as sample. The research instrument was a test which consisted of 79 items. The research findings show the first year students of UIN Raden Intan English department have an average vocabulary size 1400 words. The number of the first year students of UIN Raden Intan English department who have the vocabulary size less than 1000 words is about 11 students or only 6% students. On the other hand, the number of students who have the vocabulary more than 1000 words is about 192 students or 94% students.
The Negative Aspects of Ampel Corridor Environment as A Historical Commercial Site
Authors: Kusumowidagdo Astrid , Wardhani Dyah Kusuma
Published: March 2018

The purpose of this study was to investigate the elements that had negative influences on the creation of the atmosphere and uniqueness of the place. Conducted qualitatively descriptive, the data collection was gathered through a focus group discussion method towards eight people in addition to observation, documentation, interview with experts, and document study. This research has found some various elements that have created negative impacts on the Ampel Corridor, such as the narrow distance between stores, lack of cleanliness, unclear circulation, noisy, the informal parking area, and cross-circulation with the settlement. The other factors also include numerous beggars, visitors, and pedicab.
Dynamic Manning's roughness coefficients for hydrological modelling in basins
Authors: Ye Aizhong , Zhou Zheng , You Jinjun , Ma Feng , Duan Qingyun
Published: March 2018

Manning's roughness coefficient (n) has a significant impact on routing in hydrological models. However, computational methods for dynamic roughness coefficients are of little concern in current research. Few studies have produced spatial-temporal distributions of the roughness coefficients in basins. In this study, a formula to calculate the n value was established based on a statistical analysis of estimated n values by Manning's formula. The routing model of a distributed hydrological model was then improved using the new formula to calculate n. The roughness coefficient is not a constant; instead, it changes dynamically with changes in water depth and vegetation in the improved hydrological model. The improved model was applied to the Yellow River basin. The results show that using dynamic n can improve the streamflow simulation of hydrological models, especially on slopes. The dynamic spatial-temporal distribution of n can now be used in other models.
Antibiotic resistance profile and occurrence of AmpC between Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from a domestic full-scale WWTP in southeast Brazil
Authors: Oliveira Luiza Gerçossimo , Ferreira Letícia Gonçalves Resende , Nascimento Andrea Maria Amaral , Reis Mariana de Paula , Dias Marcela França , Lima William Gustavo , Paiva Magna Cristina
Published: March 2018

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) represent an important reservoir of antibiotic resistance determinants. Although many studies have been conducted to evaluate resistance profiles in Enterobacteriaceae isolates from this setting, the dynamics of this phenomenon are poorly known to the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Here we aimed to evaluate the resistance profiles and the production of AmpC β-lactamase in P. aeruginosa isolates from a domestic full-scale WWTP. Samples of the raw sewage and effluent were collected and the bacterium P. aeruginosa was isolated on cetrimide agar. Susceptibility to β-lactams, fluoroquinolones and aminoglycosides was evaluated by the disc diffusion method, and the presence of AmpC β-lactamase was investigated phenotypically and by molecular method. We recovered 27 isolates of P. aeruginosa. Of these, 81.5% were susceptible to all antimicrobials tested. However, a considerable rate of resistance to carbapenems (11%) was found among the isolates. Twenty-two isolates were positive in the phenotypic test for inducible AmpC β-lactamase but the blaampc gene was only identified in four isolates, suggesting the presence of other independent resistance mechanisms besides this β-lactamase. In summary, we have shown that P. aeruginosa isolates from a domestic WWTP represents a potential reservoir of blaampC genes and other resistance determinants, including those that result in low susceptibility to carbapenems and aminoglycosides.
Effect of dairy wastewater on changes in COD fractions in technical-scale SBR type reactors
Authors: Struk-Sokołowska Joanna , Rodziewicz Joanna , Mielcarek Artur
Published: March 2018

The annual global production of milk is approximately 630,000 million litres and the volume of generated dairy wastewater accounts for 3.2 m3·m−3 product. Dairy wastewater is characterized by a high load of chemical oxygen demand (COD). In many wastewater plants dairy wastewater and municipal wastewater are co-treated. The effect of dairy wastewater contribution on COD fraction changes in municipal sewage which has been treated with a sequencing batch reactor (SBR) in three wastewater treatment plants in north-east Poland is presented. In these plants the real contribution of dairy wastewater was 10, 13 and 17%. In raw wastewater, SS fraction (readily biodegradable dissolved organic matter) was dominant and ranged from 38.3 to 62.6%. In the effluent, SS fraction was not noted, which is indicative of consumption by microorganisms. The presence of dairy wastewater in municipal sewage does not cause changes in the content of the XI fraction (insoluble fractions of non-biodegradable organic matter). SBR effluents were dominated by non-biodegradable dissolved organic matter SI, which from 57.7 to 61.7%. In raw wastewater SI ranged from 1.0 to 4.6%. Xs fraction (slowly biodegradable non-soluble organic matter) in raw wastewater ranged from 24.6 to 45.5% while in treated wastewater it ranged from 28.6 to 30.8%. In the control object (fourth wastewater plant) which does not process dairy wastewater, the SS, SI, Xs and XI fraction in inflow was 28.7, 2.4, 51.7 and 17.2% respectively. In the effluent the SS, SI, Xs and XI fraction was below 0.1, 33.6, 50.0 and 16.4% respectively.
Role of Herbal Extract in Stem Cell Development
Authors: Sandra Ferry
Published: March 2018

Stem cell research has been developed and today we can witness some stem cell clinical trials are on going in Indonesia. To meet a successful stem cell treatment, several factors need to be considered, such as cell number. Cell number has been reported to be crucial, and therefore optimal cell number should be achieved. Meanwhile, in some circumstances, cell number is not enough, therefore, cell number should be enriched in an in vitro stem cell culture setting. In an in vitro stem cell culture, besides suitable and sterile equipment, reagents such as culture medium, serum and antibiotics are all important. Although all those criteria are fulfilled, somehow stem cell enrichment cannot be achieved, cell number is still below the target. Modification of stem cell microenvironment should then be an alternative. The addition of growth factors is a part of the strategies to reach a better enrichment. So that, stem cells could later be induced to proliferate at a higher rate. This strategy was then pursued by the scientist involved in herbal medicine. Herbal extracts were now highly investigated due to its potential to induce cell proliferation. Some herbal extracts inducing proliferation and differentiation of stem cell will be shown and described.Keywords: herbal extract, stem cell, progenitor cell, proliferation, differentiation
Antimicrobial and Structural Properties of Metal Ions Complexes with Thiosemicarbazide Motif and Related Heterocyclic Compounds
Authors: Namiecińska Ewelina , Sobiesiak Marta , Małecka Magdalena , Guga Piotr , Rozalska Barbara , Budzisz Elzbieta
Published: March 2018

Antibiotic resistance acquired by various bacterial fungal and viral pathogens poses therapeutic problems of increasing severity. Among the infections that are very difficult to treat, biofilm-associated cases are one of the most hazardous. Complex structure of a biofilm and unique physiology of the biofilm cells contribute to their extremely high resistance to environmental conditions, antimicrobial agents and the mechanisms of host immune response. Therefore, the biofilm formation, especially by multidrugresistant pathogens, is a serious medical problem, playing a pivotal role in the development of chronic and recurrent infections. These factors create a limitation for using traditional chemiotherapeutics and contribute to a request for development of new approaches for treatment of infectious diseases. Therefore, early reports on antimicrobial activity of several complexes of metal ions, bearing thiosemicarbazide or thiosemicarbazones as the ligands, gave a boost to worldwide search for new, more efficient compounds of this class, to be used as alternatives to commonly known drugs. In general, depending on the presence of other heteroatoms, these ligands may function in a di-, tri- or tetradentate forms (e.g., of N,S,-, N,N,S-, N,N,N,S-, N,N,S,S-, or N,S,O-type), which impose different coordination geometries to the resultant complexes. In the first part of this review, we describe the ways of synthesis and the structures of the ligands based on the thiosemicarbazone motif, while the second part deals with the antimicrobial activity of their complexes with selected metal ions.
Environmental Training and Synaptic Functions in Young and Old Brain: A Presynaptic Perspective
Authors: Bonfiglio Tommaso , Vergassola Matteo , Olivero Guendalina , Pittaluga Anna
Published: March 2018

Background:

Aging is an unavoidable, physiological process that reduces the complexity and the plasticity of the synaptic contacts in Central Nervous System (CNS), having profound implications for human well-being. The term “cognitive reserve” refers to central cellular adaptations that augment the resilience of human brain to damage and aging. The term “Cognitive training” indicates the cultural, social and physical stimulations proposed as add-on therapy for the cure of central neurological diseases. “Cognitive training” reinforces the “cognitive reserve” permitting to counteract brain impairments and rejuvenating synaptic complexity. The research has begun investigating the clinical impact of the “cognitive training” in aged people, but additional work is needed to definitively assess its effectiveness. In particular, there is a need to understand, from a preclinical point of view, whether “cognitive training” promotes compensatory effects or, alternatively, if it elicits genuine recovery of neuronal defects. Although the translation from rodent studies to the clinical situation could be difficult, the results from pre-clinical models are of high clinical relevance, since they should allow a better understanding of the effects of environmental interventions in aging-associated chronic derangements in mammals.

Conclusion:

Data in literature and the recent results obtained in our laboratory concerning the impact of environmental stimulation on the presynaptic release of noradrenaline, glutamate and gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) suggest that these neurotransmitters undergo different adaptations during aging and that they are differently tuned by “cognitive training”. The impact of “cognitive training” on neurotransmitter exocytosis might account for the cellular events involved in reinforcement of “cognitive reserve” in young and old animals.
Sensing, Transport and Other Potential Biomedical Applications of Pseudopeptides
Authors: Faggi Enrico , Luis Santiago V. , Alfonso Ignacio
Published: March 2018

Pseudopeptides are privileged synthetic molecules built from the designed combination
of peptide-like and abiotic artificial moieties. Consequently, they are benefited from
the advantages of both families of chemical structures: modular synthesis, chemical and functional
diversity, tailored three-dimensional structure, usually high stability in biological media
and low non-specific toxicity. Accordingly, in the last years, these compounds have been used
for different biomedical applications, ranging from bio-sensing, ion transport, the molecular recognition
of biologically relevant species, drug delivery or gene transfection. This review highlights
a selection of the most remarkable and recent advances in this field.
Design of FRET Probes for SNP RS1006737, Related to Mood Disorder
Authors: Orrù Germano , Carta Mauro Giovanni , Bramanti Alessia
Published: March 2018

Background:

Several studies have shown that the Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) in the CACAN1C gene, rs1006737, is related to different mood disorder illnesses, such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Current day molecular procedures for allele detection of this gene can be very expensive and time consuming. Hence, a sensitive and specific molecular procedure for detecting these mutations in a large number of subjects is desirable, especially for research groups who have no complex laboratory equipment.

Objective:

The possibility of using a Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) probe was evaluated by means of bioinformatic tools, designed for forecasting the molecular behavior of DNA probes used in the research field or for laboratory analysis methods.

Method:

In this study we used the DINAMelt Web Server to predict theTms of FRET oligo in the presence of the A and/or G allele in rs1006737. The PCR primers were designed by using oligo 4 and oligo 6 primer analysis software,

Results:

The molecular probe described in this study detected aTm difference of 5-6°C between alleles A and G in rs1006737, which also showed good discrimination for a heterozygous profile for this genomic region.

Conclusion:

Althoughin silicostudies represent a relatively new avenue of inquiry, they have now started to be used to predict how a molecular probe interacts with its biological target, reducing the time and costs of molecular test tuning. The results of this study seem promising for further laboratory tests on allele detection in rs1006737 region.