bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
УЧАСТЬ ПРАЦІВНИКІВ У КАПІТАЛІ ЯК ІНСТРУМЕНТ КОРПОРАТИВНОГО ФІНАНСУВАННЯ
Authors: Ковальчук Наталя , Зубик Ірина , Поштарюк Анна
Published: May 2021

У статті досліджуються специфічні методи управління, які створені внаслідок еволюції ідей участі, що беруть свій початок від утопічного соціалізму і простежується у всій історії становлення і розвитку капіталізму, а саме: залучення підприємствами своїх працівників до участі в капіталі та відповідно у прибутку, що має глибокий вплив на створення стійкої їх заінтересованості в ефективній діяльності підприємства. Розглядається три форми участі працівників в капіталі: участь у боргах, пайова участь та змішані форми, на основі чого проведено SWOT-аналіз та підсумовано результати. Взято до уваги досвіт світових практик у залученні підприємствами своїх працівників до участі в капіталі, та проведено аналіз іноземної компанії, яка має статус акціонерного товариства, де акціонерами виступають працівники. Підкреслено важливість поширення специфічних методів управління у вітчизняних підприємствах.
ОСОБЛИВОСТІ СТРАТЕГІЧНОГО УПРАВЛІННЯ ПІДПРИЄМСТВОМ
Authors: Таран-Лала Олена , Сухорук Крістіна
Published: May 2021

В статті розкрито сучасні особливості стратегічного управління підприємство із врахуванням змін у зовнішньому середовищі. Досліджена проблематика стратегічного управління підприємства. Розглянуто основні етапи стратегічного управління підприємством, а також сучасні методи обґрунтування стратегії підприємства. Встановлено, що стратегічне управління підприємством сприяє забезпечення успіху його на ринку, а також вмілому пристосуванню до турбулентних умов зовнішнього середовища, що є актуальним для сьогодення, коли поширюється пандемія COVID-19 та вводяться різні обмеження на діяльність підприємств. Важливим аспектом вдалого стратегічного управління підприємством є вміння застосовувати різний арсенал методів для визначення відповідної стратегії підприємства. Основою стратегічного управління підприємства є проведення аналізу зовнішнього та внутрішнього середовища.
ПОРІВНЯЛЬНИЙ АНАЛІЗ ПОДАТКОВИХ СИСТЕМ ЗАРУБІЖНИХ КРАЇН ТА УКРАЇНИ
Authors: Мережко Світлана , Ушолік Наталя , Лизунова Олена
Published: May 2021

У статті розглянуто особливості побудови податкових систем в Україні та в зарубіжних країнах. Досліджено питому вагу податкових платежів у структурі валового внутрішнього продукту країн ЄС, США, Японії та України Розглянуто сутність основних податків: податок на додану вартість, податок на доходи фізичних осіб, податок на прибуток підприємств тощо. Проаналізовані максимальні ставки податків в Україні та в інших країнах. Доведено, що основне завдання при формуванні податкових систем полягає в оптимізації потреб у податкових надходженнях із можливостями їхнього отримання. Охарактеризовано принцип простоти адміністрування, який полягає в мінімізації витрат на сплату податків, простоті їх нарахування, зменшення часу на їх контроль. Наведені особливості принципу соціальної направленості податкової системи спрямованого на вирішення соціальних проблем. Зроблено оцінку податкового тиску в Україні і інших країнах світу. Проаналізовано загальну кількість податків в різних країнах. Виявлено, що в Україні на відміну від зарубіжних країн, в структурі податкових надходжень переважають непрямі податки. Досліджено позитивні та негативні характеристики податкової системи України. Виявлено, що податкові системи різних країн складалися під впливом різних економічних, політичних та соціальних умов Висвітлено фундаментальні принципи оптимальної податкової системи. Виявлено, що існує два підходи до оподаткування доходів: пряма і прогресивна система оподаткування. Пряма шкала оподаткування не відповідає принципу соціальної рівності, оскільки малозабезпечені та заможні верстви населення сплачують у бюджет однаковий відсоток свого доходу Прогресивна система оподаткування застосовується в провідних країнах світу. Доведено: в Україні оптимальна кількість податків на фоні країн ЄС, що свідчить про умовну легкість їх адміністрування. В нашій країні переважну частину надходжень до бюджету складають непрямі податки, тобто податки, що сплачуються кінцевим споживачем. Доведено, що процес отримання податків треба організувати таким чином, аби він більшою мірою сприяв реалізації політики кон’юнктури та зайнятості шляхом накопичення фінансових ресурсів. Виявлено напрями підвищення ефективності податкових систем. Зроблено висновки, що податкова система України є проблемною.
The Verification of Human Lumbar Vertebrae and Intervertebral Disc Finite Element Models under Mechanical Forces
Authors: Palaniswamy Mohankumar , Shuib Anis Suhaila , Ng Khai Ching , Koshy Shajan
Published: May 2021

Bone, being nonhomogeneous in nature need a complicated and time-consuming process to undergo computed simulation like finite element analysis. To overcome this hurdle, assuming a nonhomogeneous model as homogeneous could be a solution. The objective of this study is to focus on developing a homogeneous human lumbar finite element models and verify them under mechanical force by measuring disc stress, disc strain, disc deformation, total strain, and total deformation. Experimental and geometrical analysis were performed before verifying the lumbar model. To verify the models’ reliability, nonhomogeneous lumbar models were also developed. Five different static structural simulations were performed on four lumbar segments, and twenty parameters were measured. Numerically, out of twenty, eighteen parameters showed very less or no significant difference between homogeneous and nonhomogeneous models of the intervertebral discs and lumbar vertebrae. At the same time, proper caution to be provided while examining the results. With this validation procedure, researchers can process artifact images to get more information which enables them to contribute to the patient’s well-being.
On-The-Go Variable Rate Fertilizer Application Method for Rice Through Classification of Crop Nitrogen Nutrition Index (NNI)
Authors: Abu Bakar Badril Hisham , Muslimin Jusnaini , Abd. Rani Muhammad Naim Fadzli , Mhd Bookeri Mohammad Aufa , Ahmad Mohd. Taufik , Abdullah Mohd. Zamri Khairi , Ismail Ramlan
Published: May 2021

The standard practice among rice farmers in Malaysia is to apply fertilizer using a single application rate for the whole field. However, fertility conditions vary across the field. The excess use of fertilizer leads to increased input cost and can be damaging to the environment. The focus of this research was to develop a method to apply fertilizer on-the-go while sensing the crop nutrient status of rice plants. A machine learning approach was used to develop a crop nitrogen status prediction model. The model used spectral data from an active canopy reflectance sensor and several vegetation indices as inputs. The model was then incorporated into an on-the-go variable rate fertilizer application system. System performance was then evaluated in the field. The results from this work showed that the model had and accuracy of 83% in classifying the nitrogen status of the rice plants. The results also showed that our method was able to save up to 20% fertilizer use while maintaining yield. These findings are important for large estate farmers who are looking to increase productivity and efficiency.
Flavour Improvement of Protein Hydrolysates Derived from Cephalopods Byproducts Using Maillard Reaction: A Short Review
Authors: Salleh Rabeta Mohd , Zulkipli Ayu Shazwani
Published: May 2021

The conversion of low-value byproducts to high value-added protein hydrolysates by enzymatic hydrolysis is among the top trends in the food industry. Protein hydrolysates provide an opportunity for effective utilization and are considered promising functional food ingredients. However, hydrolyzing effect contributes to taste and aroma defects such as fishy off-flavour and bitterness that impeded their application. Several procedures such as encapsulation, enzymatic hydrolysis with exopeptidase and plastein reaction and Maillard reaction have been compared to mask the undesirable flavour of protein hydrolysates. Maillard reaction has more potential to overcome these challenges and enhance the organoleptic properties of protein hydrolysates. All literature were accessed through available electronic databases. The revised overview can be helpful to explore the rational use of Maillard Reaction with reduced adverse effects. The reaction of Maillard-induced modification on bioactive properties of protein-derived peptides is well-positioned the beneficial effect and facilitate design to obtain applicable functional ingredients for food formulation.
Acute Limb Ischemia in COVID-19 Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: AlAmran Fadhil , AL-Madhhachi Bahaa , Ibrahim Osamah Obaid , Naser Husam Natheer , Alobeid Zaid , Muhi Ahmed
Published: May 2021

This study aimed to show the incidence, presentation, management, and outcome of acute limb ischemia (ALI) in patients diagnosed with COVID-19 pneumonia, and prove the association between them. A multi-centre retrospective cohort study in the middle and south of Iraq, comparing 400 patients admitted to the isolation hospitals for COVID-19 pneumonia with a matched control group at period from 1st June 2020 to 1st August 2020. A total of 21/400 cases of ALI in COVID-19 pneumonia and only 4/400 cases in the non-COVID-19 group. Relative Risk (Risk Ratio= 5.25, 95%CI=1.818-15.157, P = 0.001). There were 291 (72.7%) males and 109 (27.2%) females. The average time from diagnosis of COVID-19 to the onset of ALI was (9.4±6.4 days). The mean ischemic time was (22.05 ±18.8 hours) in the COVID-19 group, while it was (11.75±8.7 hours) in the non-COVID-19 group. The mean D-dimer level for the patient with COVID-19 pneumonia without ALI is (1705±1256 μg/L), while it is (3730±2373 μg/L) for the patient with COVID-19 pneumonia. The embolectomy done in 14 patients (66.6%) of the COVID-19 pneumonia group, and it was successful in 10 patients (71.4%). In comparison, it was done in 3 patients (75%) of the control group and was successful in 2 (66.6%). Amputation was done in 4 patients (19%) of the COVID-19 pneumonia group, while only one patient (25%) in the control group had amputation. The association between COVID-19 pneumonia and ALI incidence; the D-dimer level is also associated with ALI in COVID-19 pneumonia cases. The anticoagulants, antiplatelet, vasodilators, and embolectomy had a management success rate.
Critical Issues Underpinning the Safe Transfer of Ill Neonates: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Bhagwan Raisuyah
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Critically ill neonates often require urgent transport to a neonatal care facility shortly after birth. The safe transfer of ill neonates is a critical part of their continuum of care.

Methods

A review of the empirical work and literature around the safe transfer of ill neonates was undertaken to explore what factors influence a safe transfer.

Results

What emerged was that a multitude of adverse events influence the clinical deterioration of the neonate, including the physiological condition of the neonate, equipment-related challenges and the unpreparedness of those involved to deal with neonatal clinical emergencies.

Conclusion

This review highlights the necessary equipment required, the nature of clinical emergencies that may arise, and the need to consider utilising specialised neonatal transfer units to effect the safe transfer of the critically ill neonate.
Pengembangan Aplikasi Katalog Produk Usaha Kecil Menengah Berbasis Android
Authors:   Sekolah Tinggi Teknologi Garut, Firmansyah Imat , Rahayu Sri , Cahyana Rinda
Published: May 2021

Kemajuan teknologi smartphone banyak digunakan dalam berbagai bidang termasuk bidang pengembangan katalog produk UKM. Penggunaan smartphone dapat dimanfaatkan dalam bidang pemasaran dan promosi sehingga diharapkan dapat meningkatkan jumlah penjualan dan pendapatan. Dengan smartphone android memungkinkan katalog produk UKM. dapat diakses dimana saja dan kapan saja secara online menggunakan android. Informasi yang berasal dari internet yang diambil dari situs website atau blog tentang katalog produk UKM yang dikemas ke dalam bentuk aplikasi android agar lebih terjangkau dan memudahkan pengguna. Penulisan ini bertujuan untuk membuat sebuah aplikasi informasi tentang katalog produk UKM berbasis android yang diharapkan bisa memberikan informasi tentang katalog produk UKM kepada masyarakat. Berdasarkan permasalahan tersebut dibuat Aplikasi Informasi katalog produk UKM Berbasis Android, Sedangkan metodologi yang digunakan yaitu Multimedia Development Life Cycle versi Luther Sutopo yang terdiri dari beberapa tahapan yaitu Konsep, desain, pengumpulan materi, Assembly, pengujian dan Distribusi. Penelitian ini menghasilkan Aplikasi Informasi katalog produk UKM berbasis Android yang mempermudah masyarakat dalam mengetahui tentang informasi kuliner, dimana saja dan kapan saja dapat diketahui sebagai media informasi tentang kuliner.
Media Pembelajaran Pencegahan Penyakit Stunting Pada Balita Berbasis Android
Authors:   Sekolah Tinggi Teknologi Garut, Latifah Ayu , Fitriani Leni , Pratama Tova Nanda
Published: May 2021

Kurangnya kepedulian masyarakat terhadap pencegahan penyakit kepada balita terutama penyakit stunting akibat kekurangan gizi yang menyebabkan gagal pertumbuhan pada anak sejak balita. Disamping itu kurangnya pengetahuan masyarakat akan bahayanya penyakit stunting secara jelas karena kurangnya media penyampaian pencegahan penyakit stunting yang sebelumnya hanya didapat ketika pihak puskesmas mengadakan sosialisasi. Sehingga diperlukannya aplikasi media pembelajaran pencegahan penyakit stunting pada balita, supaya masyarakat dapat mengetahui bahaya dari gejala penyakit stunting melalui smartphone agar dapat digunakan dimana saja dan kapan saja. Maka dari itu tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk membantu masyarakat umum terutama ibu balita untuk melakukan pencegahan stunting dan memahami kembali bahayanya kurang dan lebihnya gizi pada balita. Metode perancangan penelitian ini menggunakan Multimedia Development Life Cycle. Adapun tahapan yang dilakukan pada metode ini adalah konsep (concept) , perancangan (desain), pengumpulan data (material collecting), pembuatan (assembly), pengujian (testing), dan distribusi (distribution). Hasil dari penelitian ini berupa Media pembelajaran pencegahan penyakit stunting pada balita yang cocok untuk masyarakat umum dan ibu balita dilengkapi dengan fitur materi interaktif dan penyampaian materi berupa video interaktif.
Rancang Bangun Aplikasi Dashboard CCTV Berbasis Webgis Pada Command Center Kab. Garut
Authors:   Sekolah Tinggi Teknologi Garut, Johari Heri , Kurniadi Dede
Published: May 2021

Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) merupakan sistem pengawasan atau monitoring suatu kawasan menggunakan kamera video yang dipasang ditempat-tempat tertentu, dirangkai menjadi sebuah jaringan tertutup dan dapat dipantau dari sebuah ruang control. CCTV diperlukan Command Center Kab. Garut untuk pengawasan keamanan dan ketertiban umum. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk membantu Command Center Kab. Garut dalam mengintegrasikan data seluruh perangkat CCTV yang sudah terpasang dan tersebar di masing - masing Satuan Kerja Perangkat Daerah (SKPD) Pemerintah Kabupaten Garut sehingga menjadi terpusat dalam satu Aplikasi Dashboard. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini yaitu Rapid Application Development (RAD) terdiri dari beberapa tahapan diantaranya Requirements Planning (Perencanaan Syarat-Syarat), Design Workshop (Workshop Desain), Implementation (Implementasi). Adapun data yang digunakan pada penelitian ini meliputi beberapa titik lokasi perangkat CCTV. Hasil dari penelitian ini berupa Aplikasi Dashboard CCTV. Aplikasi ini diharapkan dapat membantu Command Center Kab. Garut guna menyajikan visualisasi data dari perangkat CCTV guna mendukung pengawasan keamanan dan ketertiban umum yang ada di Kabupaten Garut.
Sistem Informasi Keluhan Pelanggan PDAM Kabupaten Garut Berbasis Web
Authors:   Sekolah Tinggi Teknologi Garut, Supriatna Asep Deddy , Rizal Asep
Published: May 2021

PDAM merupakan perusahaan daerah yang menyuplai kebutuhan air bersih bagi masyarakat. Dari beberapa pelanggan terdapat permasalahan yaitu adanya selisih antara jumlah yang dibayarkan dengan pembacaan stand meter. Permasalahan itu diduga karena petugas tidak dapat melakukan pengecekan langsung yang disebabkan oleh pelanggan tidak ada di tempat pada saat dilakukan pengukuran, di lain sisi petugas mempunyai keterbatasan waktu dan target pengecekan yang harus diselesaikan. Salah satu alternatif yang dapat dilakukan adalah mengelompokan pelanggan berdasarkan wilayah dan klasifikasi pelanggan berdasarkan status peruntukannya serta petugas yang melakukan pengecekan stand meter. Selanjutnya menginformasikan hasil pengukuran secara transparan melalui teknologi online kepada pelanggan sebelum waktu pembayaran dilakukan sehingga tidak terjadi selisih antara PDAM dengan pelanggan. Tujuan penelitian ini membuat solusi alternatif yaitu merancang sebuah aplikasi yang dapat memudahkan pelanggan mengetahui informasi permbayaranya. Manfaat dibuatnya aplikasi ini untuk meningkatkan pelayanan PDAM terhadap pelanggan sehingga menghilangkan keluhan pelanggan terhadap adanya selesih antara pembacaan meter oleh pelanggan dengan tagihan pembayaran PDAM. Metodologi yang digunakan untuk merancang aplikasi adalah Rational Unified Process (RUP), Berdasarkan hasil dan pembahasan, diperoleh struktur menu dan interface yang menggambarkan proses bisnis yang sesungguhnya. kesimpulan dari penelitian ini adalah perancangan sistem aplikasi yang dapat mengatasi permasalahan yang terjadi karna disebabkan selisih pembacaan meter antara pelanggan dan petugas pdam.
Perancangan Sistem Informasi Geografis Berbasis Web Pemetaan Ternak Ayam di Kabupaten Garut
Authors:   Sekolah Tinggi Teknologi Garut, Supriatna Asep Deddy , Ginanjar Ansor
Published: May 2021

Peternakan ayam merupakan salah satu wirausaha yang cukup berkembang khusunya di masyarakat kabupaten Garut. Peternakan berbagai jenis ayam tersebar di berbagai wilayah kecamatan. Dengan banyak nya peternakan ayam yang tersebar di berbagai wilayah, harusnya memudahkan bagi masyarakat dalam mengetahui informasi tentang peternakan maupun lokasinya, tetapi karena keterbatasan informasi yang di dapat sehingga masyarakat masih kebingungan ketika mencari peternakan jenis ayam yang di butuhkannya. Dengan adanya permasalahan tersebut tujuan penelitian ini adalah membuat perancangan Sistem informasi geografis berbasis web pemetaan ternak ayam di kabupaten Garut. Sebagai solusi alternatif untuk membantu masyarakat mendapatkan informasi seputar lokasi ternak ayam secara mudah, cepat dan tepat, tanpa harus datang langsung kedinas terkait. Metode yang digunakan adalah Rational Unified Process tahapnnya yaitu inception, elaboration, contruction dan transition, kemudian menggunakan pemodelan Unified Modelling Language, pengujian pada aplikasi menggunakan Balckbox testing. Hasil penelitian yang telah dilaksanakan dapat di simpulkan bahwa aplikasi sistem informasi geografis berbasis web pemetaan ternak ayam di kabupaten Garut, memberikan kemudahan bagi masyarakat untuk mendapatkan informasi seputar peternak, lokasi ternak ayam.
Rancang Bangun Role Playing Game Budaya dan Pariwisata Garut
Authors:   Sekolah Tinggi Teknologi Garut, Tresnawati Dewi , Sidiq Ary Akbar
Published: May 2021

Garut mempunyai budaya dan pariwisata yang menarik, namun tidak sepenuhnya diketahui oleh masyarakat luas. Budaya dan pariwisata Garut ini perlu diperkenalkan ke masyarakat luas, khususnya warga Garut umumnya seluruh Indonesia. Seiring dengan perkemabangan teknologi yang pesat, salah satunya adalah hiburan elekronik, yaitu game. Game merupakan sebuah hiburan elektronik yang dapat dimainkan oleh satu orang atau lebih. Selain untuk hiburan, game juga dapat menjadi sebuah media penyampaian informasi. Oleh karena itu peneliti membuat game sebagai media informasi tentang budaya dan pariwisata Garut. Game ini bertipe Role Playing Game yang bertujuan untuk memperkenalkan budaya dan pariwisata yang ada di Garut. Metodologi yang digunakan adalah Digital Game Based Learning-Instructional Design. Serta metode pengujiannya yaitu alpha dengan black box testing dan pengujian beta untuk kepuasan user. Penelitian ini menghasilkan game mengenai budaya dan pariwisata yang ada di Garut memiliki fitur, menu, latihan soal, battle system, dibuat dengan menggunakan engine RPG Maker VX Ace. Harapannya, informasi mengenai budaya dan pariwisata Kabupaten Garut menjadi lebih dikenal melalui media ini serta bermanfaat untuk masyarakat Garut khususnya dan umumnya Indonesia.
Sistem Informasi Sarana dan Prasarana Pendidikan Anak Usia Dini Menggunakan Metodologi Extreme Programming
Authors:   Sekolah Tinggi Teknologi Garut, Setiawan Ridwan , Maulana Rizky
Published: May 2021

Proses pendataan sarana dan prasarana (sarpras) pada Pendidikan Anak Usia Dini (PAUD) dan Pendidikan Masyarakat (Dikmas) dilakukan oleh operator sekolah dan kemudian dilaporkan kepada Dinas Pendidikan di mana data tersebut dijadikan salah satu pertimbangan dalam pemberian bantuan dari dinas pendidikan. Pada proses pemberian bantuan terdapat masalah, di mana data yang dilaporkan mengenai sarpras dari PAUD dan DIKMAS yang diajukan ada permasalahan khususnya dengan penyesuaian sesuai Permendiknas Nomor 58 tahun 2009. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah membangun sistem informasi pendataan sarana dan prasarana yang memuat basis data dalam mewujudkan sarana dan prasarana yang relasional. Metodologi yang digunakan dalam pengembangan sistem adalah extreme programming dengan tahapan planning, design, coding dan testing. Hasil penelitian berupa sebuah sistem informasi yang mampu menampung pelaporan sarana dan prasarana kedalam database yang terpusat, melakukan perekapan serta memberikan data validasi standar kelayakan. Penelitian ini dibatasi pada standar kelayakan sarana dan prasarana yang hanya terdiri dari sepuluh aspek sehingga sistem informasi yang dibangun dapat membantu Dinas Pendidikan menginventarisir sarana dan prasarana paud secara online serta dapat menjadi sebagai salah satu dasar Pemerintah dalam perencanaan penerima bantuan.
Rancang Bangun Sistem Informasi Absensi Fingerprint, Agenda, Mading Digital di SMK Wikrama 1 Garut Berbasis Web
Authors:   Sekolah Tinggi Teknologi Garut, Rahayu Raden Erwin Gunadhi , Pujaeri Zavall Kalsma
Published: May 2021

Peningkatan kualitas siswa di sekolah menengah dilakukan dengan memperhatikan dua ranah yaitu kedisiplinan dan pengetahuan, indikator kedisiplinan salah satunya adalah dengan kehadiran dan ketepatan waktu siswa untuk datang ke sekolah pada pukul 07.00. Disamping itu indikator pengetahuan adalah banyaknya siswa melakukan literasi, pada proses peningkatan kualitas siswa terdapat beberapa masalah diantaranya data siswa yang terlambat hadir disekolah masih tercecer sehingga sulit diidentifikasi siswa mana yang sering datang terlambat, perekapan absensi sering terjadi kekeliruan baik disebabkan oleh kesalahan guru dalam merekap ataupun kecurangan dari siswa itu sendiri. Sedangkan pada peningkatan pengetahuan siswa mengalami kendala dari sisi sarana karena tidak semua siswa memiliki perangkat digital untuk mengakses informasi digital. Masalah tersebut akan diselesaikan dengan membangun sebuah sistem yang dibangun dengan menggunakan metodologi pendekatan Rational Unified Process (RUP) dengan tahapan inception, elaboration, contruction dan trasnsition, sistem tersebut mampu merekam absensi sekaligus merekap secara otomatis menggunakan fingerprint untuk meminimalisir kecurangan dan menampilkan informasi berupa poster atau agenda kegiatan sekolah. Hasil dari penelitian ini berupa sistem informasi antara absensi menggunakan fingerprint, informasi agenda sekolah dan poster kedalam mading digital yang dapat memotivasi siswa melalui rekap grafik kehadiran yang secara realtime ditampilkan antar kelas dan siswa dapat lebih mempersiapkan diri untuk menempuh agenda sekolah seperti ujian dan kegiatan lainnya.
Globalización desde arriba y desde abajo en el Valle de San Quintín, en Oxnard y en otros territorios de producción fresera
Authors: Garrapa Anna Mary
Published: May 2021

The article will analyze different recruiting methods adopted by local farms located in the San Quintin Valley, in Baja California, and transnational companies that operate in the strawberry sector in both Mexico and the United States. This valley is a fundamental route for migrants from southern Mexico who travel to the north of the country and the U.S. The article draws on the fieldwork carried out during 2016 and 2017, in San Quintin and Oxnard (U.S.), where the presence of the same agri-food corporations allows an analysis of their economic and territorial strategies. The methodology has been based on quantitative and especially qualitative techniques.
Changes of Voice Production in Artificial Acoustic Environments
Authors: Sierra-Polanco Tomás , Cantor-Cutiva Lady Catherine , Hunter Eric J. , Bottalico Pasquale
Published: May 2021

The physical production of speech level dynamic range is directly affected by the physiological features of the speaker such as vocal tract size and lung capacity; however, the regulation of these production systems is affected by the perception of the communication environment and auditory feedback. The current study examined the effects of room acoustics in an artificial setting on voice production in terms of sound pressure level and the relationship with the perceived vocal comfort and vocal control. Three independent room acoustic parameters were considered: gain (alteration of the sidetone or playback of one’s own voice), reverberation time, and background noise. An increase in the sidetone led to a decrease in vocal sound pressure levels, thus increasing vocal comfort and vocal control. This effect was consistent in the different reverberation times considered. Mid-range reverberation times (T30 ≈ 1.3 s) led to a decrease in vocal sound pressure level along with an increase in vocal comfort and vocal control, however, the effect of the reverberation time was smaller than the effect of the gain. The presence of noise amplified the aforementioned effects for the variables analyzed.
Semi-Automated Glycoproteomic Data Analysis of LC-MS Data Using GlycopeptideGraphMS in Process Development of Monoclonal Antibody Biologics
Authors: Pang Kuin Tian , Tay Shi Jie , Wan Corrine , Walsh Ian , Choo Matthew S. F. , Yang Yuan Sheng , Choo Andre , Ho Ying Swan , Nguyen-Khuong Terry
Published: May 2021

The glycosylation of antibody-based proteins is vital in translating the right therapeutic outcomes of the patient. Despite this, significant infrastructure is required to analyse biologic glycosylation in various unit operations from biologic development, process development to QA/QC in bio-manufacturing. Simplified mass spectrometers offer ease of operation as well as the portability of method development across various operations. Furthermore, data analysis would need to have a degree of automation to relay information back to the manufacturing line. We set out to investigate the applicability of using a semiautomated data analysis workflow to investigate glycosylation in different biologic development test cases. The workflow involves data acquisition using a BioAccord LC-MS system with a data-analytical tool called GlycopeptideGraphMS along with Progenesis QI to semi-automate glycoproteomic characterisation and quantitation with a LC-MS1 dataset of a glycopeptides and peptides. Data analysis which involved identifying glycopeptides and their quantitative glycosylation was performed in 30 min with minimal user intervention. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the antibody and biologic glycopeptide assignment in various scenarios akin to biologic development activities, we demonstrate the effectiveness in the filtering of IgG1 and IgG2 subclasses from human serum IgG as well as innovator drugs trastuzumab and adalimumab and glycoforms by virtue of their glycosylation pattern. We demonstrate a high correlation between conventional released glycan analysis with fluorescent tagging and glycopeptide assignment derived from GraphMS. GraphMS workflow was then used to monitor the glycoform of our in-house trastuzumab biosimilar produced in fed-batch cultures. The demonstrated utility of GraphMS to semi-automate quantitation and qualitative identification of glycopeptides proves to be an easy data analysis method that can complement emerging multi-attribute monitoring (MAM) analytical toolsets in bioprocess environments.
Persistent Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Infection of Enteric Neurons Triggers CD8+ T Cell Response and Gastrointestinal Neuromuscular Dysfunction
Authors: Brun Paola , Conti Jessica , Zatta Veronica , Russo Venera , Scarpa Melania , Kotsafti Andromachi , Porzionato Andrea , De Caro Raffaele , Scarpa Marco , Fassan Matteo , Calistri Arianna , Castagliuolo Ignazio
Published: May 2021

Behind the central nervous system, neurotropic viruses can reach and persist even in the enteric nervous system (ENS), the neuronal network embedded in the gut wall. We recently reported that immediately following orogastric (OG) administration, Herpes simplex virus (HSV)-1 infects murine enteric neurons and recruits mononuclear cells in the myenteric plexus. In the current work, we took those findings a step forward by investigating the persistence of HSV-1 in the ENS and the local adaptive immune responses against HSV-1 that might contribute to neuronal damage in an animal model. Our study demonstrated specific viral RNA transcripts and proteins in the longitudinal muscle layer containing the myenteric plexus (LMMP) up to 10 weeks post HSV-1 infection. CD3+CD8+INFγ+ lymphocytes skewed towards HSV-1 antigens infiltrated the myenteric ganglia starting from the 6th week of infection and persist up to 10 weeks post-OG HSV-1 inoculation. CD3+CD8+ cells isolated from the LMMP of the infected mice recognized HSV-1 antigens expressed by infected enteric neurons. In vivo, infiltrating activated lymphocytes were involved in controlling viral replication and intestinal neuromuscular dysfunction. Indeed, by depleting the CD8+ cells by administering specific monoclonal antibody we observed a partial amelioration of intestinal dysmotility in HSV-1 infected mice but increased expression of viral genes. Our findings demonstrate that HSV-1 persistently infects enteric neurons that in turn express viral antigens, leading them to recruit activated CD3+CD8+ lymphocytes. The T-cell responses toward HSV-1 antigens persistently expressed in enteric neurons can alter the integrity of the ENS predisposing to neuromuscular dysfunction.
Centralised or Localised Pathogen Whole Genome Sequencing: Lessons Learnt From Implementation in a Clinical Diagnostic Laboratory
Authors: Beukers Alicia G. , Jenkins Frances , van Hal Sebastiaan J.
Published: May 2021

Whole genome sequencing (WGS) has had widespread use in the management of microbial outbreaks in a public health setting. Current models encompass sending isolates to a central laboratory for WGS who then produce a report for various levels of government. This model, although beneficial, has multiple shortcomings especially for localised infection control interventions and patient care. One reason for the slow rollout of WGS in clinical diagnostic laboratories has been the requirement for professionally trained personal in both wet lab techniques and in the analysis and interpretation of data, otherwise known as bioinformatics. A further bottleneck has been establishment of regulations in order to certify clinical and technical validity and demonstrate WGS as a verified diagnostic test. Nevertheless, this technology is far superior providing information that would normally require several diagnostic tests to achieve. An obvious barrier to informed outbreak tracking is turnaround time and requires isolates to be sequenced in real-time to rapidly identify chains of transmission. One way this can be achieved is through onsite hospital sequencing with a cumulative analysis approach employed. Onsite, as opposed to centralised sequencing, has added benefits including the increased agility to combine with local infection control staff to iterate through the data, finding links that aide in understanding transmission chains and inform infection control strategies. Our laboratory has recently instituted a pathogen WGS service within a diagnostic laboratory, separate to a public health laboratory. We describe our experience, address the challenges faced and demonstrate the advantages of de-centralised sequencing through real-life scenarios.
Dysbiotic Fecal Microbiome in HIV-1 Infected Individuals in Ghana
Authors: Parbie Prince Kofi , Mizutani Taketoshi , Ishizaka Aya , Kawana-Tachikawa Ai , Runtuwene Lucky Ronald , Seki Sayuri , Abana Christopher Zaab-Yen , Kushitor Dennis , Bonney Evelyn Yayra , Ofori Sampson Badu , Uematsu Satoshi , Imoto Seiya , Kimura Yasumasa , Kiyono Hiroshi , Ishikawa Koichi , Ampofo William Kwabena , Matano Tetsuro
Published: May 2021

HIV-1 infected individuals under antiretroviral therapy can control viremia but often develop non-AIDS diseases such as cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. Gut microbiome dysbiosis has been indicated to be associated with progression of these diseases. Analyses of gut/fecal microbiome in individual regions are important for our understanding of pathogenesis in HIV-1 infections. However, data on gut/fecal microbiome has not yet been accumulated in West Africa. In the present study, we examined fecal microbiome compositions in HIV-1 infected adults in Ghana, where approximately two-thirds of infected adults are females. In a cross-sectional case-control study, age- and gender-matched HIV-1 infected adults (HIV+; n = 55) and seronegative controls (HIV-; n = 55) were enrolled. Alpha diversity of fecal microbiome in HIV+ was significantly reduced compared to HIV- and associated with CD4 counts. HIV+ showed reduction in varieties of bacteria including Faecalibacterium, the most abundant in seronegative controls, but enrichment of Proteobacteria. Ghanaian HIV+ exhibited enrichment of Dorea and Blautia; bacteria groups whose depletion has been reported in HIV-1 infected individuals in several other cohorts. Furthermore, HIV+ in our cohort exhibited a depletion of Prevotella, a genus whose enrichment has recently been shown in men having sex with men (MSM) regardless of HIV-1 status. The present study revealed the characteristics of dysbiotic fecal microbiome in HIV-1 infected adults in Ghana, a representative of West African populations.
A ‘PERMA’ Response to the Pandemic: An Online Positive Education Programme to Promote Wellbeing in University Students
Authors: Morgan Blaire , Simmons Laura
Published: May 2021

Pre-existing issues regarding the wellbeing and mental health of university students have subsequently been compounded by the global COVID-19 pandemic. Research signals that anxiety and depression symptomology has increased in university students’ following the COVID-19 outbreak, and mental wellbeing has declined. In response to concerns around mental health of students in Higher Education (HE), and to support the transition to remote working during the pandemic, we designed and implemented an 8-week wellbeing program based on positive education frameworks and practices. The online program was delivered in a West Midlands-based university in the United Kingdom, to undergraduate and postgraduate psychology students. The weekly sessions [ran through a virtual learning environment (VLE)] aimed to 1) provide students with a community and an opportunity to feel connected with other students, 2) introduce students to key concepts of wellbeing, and 3) equip students with knowledge and resources that would help sustain/improve their wellbeing. In this paper we outline how positive education, and specifically the “PERMA” wellbeing framework, has inspired the development of this wellbeing program (including the accompanying VLE webpages and sources of support) and future plans for evaluation. We further describe the content and delivery of this program alongside practical implications, lessons learned and important constraints. We situate this discussion alongside consideration of ongoing wellbeing support requirements following the pandemic and issues regarding wider integration of PERMA approaches in university contexts.
Neutrophil Extracellular Traps and Macrophage Extracellular Traps Predict Postoperative Recurrence in Resectable Nonfunctional Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Xu Shuai-Shuai , Li Hao , Li Tian-Jiao , Li Shuo , Xia Huan-Yu , Long Jiang , Wu Chun-Tao , Wang Wen-Quan , Zhang Wu-Hu , Gao He-Li , Han Xuan , Ye Long-Yun , Lin Xuan , Xu Hua-Xiang , Yu Xian-Jun , Liu Liang
Published: May 2021

Background

Extracellular traps (ETs) and tumor-infiltrating immune cells can contribute to disease progression. The clinical significance of tumor-infiltrating neutrophils and macrophages and related extracellular traps in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) has not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to explore the prognostic value of tumor infiltration and ET formation by neutrophils and macrophages in pNETs.

Methods

A total of 135 patients with radical resection of nonfunctional pNETs were analyzed retrospectively. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence were utilized to stain tumor tissue sections. The recurrence-free survival (RFS) of subgroups determined by Kaplan-Meier analysis was compared with the log-rank test. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to identify independent prognostic factors. A nomogram was established to predict 3-year RFS.

Results

Patients with high tumor-infiltrating neutrophils or macrophages or positive expression of neutrophils ETs or macrophage ETs displayed worse RFS (all p<0.05). Moreover, univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses showed that neutrophil and macrophage infiltration and ETs were independent prognostic factors for RFS (all p<0.05). A combined parameter including WHO grade, TNM stage, tumor-infiltrating neutrophils and macrophages, and neutrophil and macrophage ETs had the highest C-index (0.866) and lowest Akaike information criteria (326.557). The calibration plot of nomogram composed of the combined parameter exhibited excellent prognostic values for 3-year RFS.

Conclusions

Infiltration and ETs by neutrophils and macrophages can be used as biological indicators of patient prognosis, suggesting the treatment potential for targeting those in nonfunctional pNETs.
Adiponectin/AdipoR1 Axis Promotes IL-10 Release by Human Regulatory T Cells
Authors: Ramos-Ramírez Patricia , Malmhäll Carina , Tliba Omar , Rådinger Madeleine , Bossios Apostolos
Published: May 2021

Background

Adiponectin is an important immunomodulatory mediator in inflammatory conditions. While we previously showed that adiponectin receptor 1 (AdipoR1) is expressed in murine regulatory T cells (Tregs), its expression in human Tregs remain unknown. Here, we examined the expression of AdipoR1 in human Tregs and whether its ligand, globular adiponectin (gAd) affects the Treg ability to secrete IL-10 and the role of Type 2 (T2) inflammation in such process.

Methods

Human Tregs from peripheral blood were analyzed by flow cytometry for AdipoR1, Helios and IL-10 expression. CD4+ T cells enriched from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were cultured in the presence or the absence of gAd or the chemical adiponectin receptor agonist, AdipoRon, or in a T2 cytokine milieu. Flow cytometry was then used to assess intracellular IL-10, IL-10 secreting cells, FOXP3 and Helios expression, and phosphorylated p38 MAP kinase (MAPK). IL-10 levels in CD4+ T cell supernatants were quantified by ELISA.

Results

We found that a subset of human Tregs expressed AdipoR1. Importantly, more Helios- cells expressed AdipoR1 than Helios+ cells. Likewise, there was a higher frequency of IL-10+ cells within Helios- AdipoR1+ Tregs compared to Helios+ AdipoR1+ Tregs. In contrast, the IL-10 mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) was higher in Helios+ AdipoR1+ Tregs compared to Helios-AdipoR1+ Tregs. When human CD4+ T cells were treated with gAd or AdipoRon, a significant increase in IL-10 secretion, FOXP3 expression, and p38 MAPK phosphorylation was observed in Helios- AdipoR1+ Tregs. Interestingly, gAd under T2 cytokine milieu significantly increased the intracellular levels of IL-10, mainly in Helios+ AdipoR1+ Tregs, and IL-10 levels in supernatants of CD4+ T cells.

Conclusions

Collectively, our findings suggest that adiponectin/AdipoR1 axis promotes IL-10 release by Tregs, mainly in Helios- Tregs, and the effect was amplified by T2 inflammation in Helios+ Tregs.
Canonical Secretomes, Innate Immune Caspase-1-, 4/11-Gasdermin D Non-Canonical Secretomes and Exosomes May Contribute to Maintain Treg-Ness for Treg Immunosuppression, Tissue Repair and Modulate Anti-Tumor Immunity via ROS Pathways
Authors: Ni Dong , Tang TingTing , Lu Yifan , Xu Keman , Shao Ying , Saaoud Fatma , Saredy Jason , Liu Lu , Drummer Charles , Sun Yu , Hu Wenhui , Lopez-Pastrana Jahaira , Luo Jin J. , Jiang Xiaohua , Choi Eric T. , Wang Hong , Yang Xiaofeng
Published: May 2021

We performed a transcriptomic analyses using the strategies we pioneered and made the following findings:1)Normal lymphoid Tregs, diseased kidney Tregs, splenic Tregs from mice with injured muscle have 3, 17 and 3 specific (S-) pathways, respectively;2)Tumor splenic Tregs share 12 pathways with tumor Tregs; tumor splenic Tregs and tumor Tregs have 11 and 8 S-pathways, respectively;3)Normal and non-tumor disease Tregs upregulate some of novel 2641 canonical secretomic genes (SGs) with 24 pathways, and tumor Tregs upregulate canonical secretomes with 17 pathways; 4) Normal and non-tumor disease tissue Tregs upregulate some of novel 6560 exosome SGs with 56 exosome SG pathways (ESP), tumor Treg ESP are more focused than other Tregs; 5) Normal, non-tumor diseased Treg and tumor Tregs upregulate some of novel 961 innate immune caspase-1 SGs and 1223 innate immune caspase-4 SGs to fulfill their tissue/SG-specific and shared functions;6)Most tissue Treg transcriptomes are controlled by Foxp3; and Tumor Tregs had increased Foxp3 non-collaboration genes with ROS and 17 other pathways;7)Immune checkpoint receptor PD-1 does, but CTLA-4 does not, play significant roles in promoting Treg upregulated genes in normal and non-tumor disease tissue Tregs; and tumor splenic and tumor Tregs have certain CTLA-4-, and PD-1-, non-collaboration transcriptomic changes with innate immune dominant pathways;8)Tumor Tregs downregulate more immunometabolic and innate immune memory (trained immunity) genes than Tregs from other groups; and11)ROS significantly regulate Treg transcriptomes; and ROS-suppressed genes are downregulated more in tumor Tregs than Tregs from other groups. Our results have provided novel insights on the roles of Tregs in normal, injuries, regeneration, tumor conditions and some of canonical and innate immune non-canonical secretomesviaROS-regulatory mechanisms and new therapeutic targets for immunosuppression, tissue repair, cardiovascular diseases, chronic kidney disease, autoimmune diseases, transplantation, and cancers.
Igh Locus Polymorphism May Dictate Topological Chromatin Conformation and V Gene Usage in the Ig Repertoire
Authors: Kenter Amy L. , Watson Corey T. , Spille Jan-Hendrik
Published: May 2021

Vast repertoires of unique antigen receptors are created in developing B and T lymphocytes. The antigen receptor loci contain many variable (V), diversity (D) and joining (J) gene segments that are arrayed across very large genomic expanses and are joined to form variable-region exons of expressed immunoglobulins and T cell receptors. This process creates the potential for an organism to respond to large numbers of different pathogens. Here, we consider the possibility that genetic polymorphisms with alterations in a vast array of regulatory elements in the immunoglobulin heavy chain (IgH) locus lead to changes in locus topology and impact immune-repertoire formation.
Contribution of Thermohaline Staircases to Deep Water Mass Modifications in the Western Mediterranean Sea From Microstructure Observations
Authors: Ferron Bruno , Bouruet-Aubertot Pascale , Schroeder Katrin , Bryden Harry L. , Cuypers Yannis , Borghini Mireno
Published: May 2021

Recent observations from profiles of temperature and salinity in the Algerian Sea showed that salt finger mixing can significantly warm and salinify the deep waters within a period of 2 years, thereby contributing to the erosion of deep water properties formed during winter convection episodes. In this study, heat, salt, and buoyancy fluxes associated with thermohaline staircases are estimated using microstructure observations from four locations of the Western Mediterranean Sea: The Tyrrhenian Sea, the Algerian Sea, the Sardino-Balearic Sea, and the Ligurian Sea. Those fluxes are compared to the rare estimates found in the Mediterranean Sea. Microstructure data show that the temperature variance dissipation rate is one to three orders of magnitude larger in the strong steps that separate weakly stratified layers than in the layers, while the turbulent kinetic energy dissipation rate remains usually weak both in steps and layers. In the steps, the turbulent eddy diffusivity of salt is on average twice as large as that of temperature. The buoyancy flux ratio decreases with the density ratio. It is found that staircases induce a downward heat transfer rate of 46 to 103 × 109 W over the whole western basin, and a downward salt transfer rate of 4.5 to 10.3 × 103 kg s–1 between 1000 and 2000 m. This heat convergence is 2–5 times as large as the western Mediterranean geothermal heat flux in this depth range. Over the whole western basin, heat and salt convergences from salt-fingering staircases are 50% to 100% of those generated by mechanical mixing. Finally, it is found that heat and salt convergences from geothermal heating, salt-fingering and mechanical mixing can balance a deep water upwelling of 0.4 × 106 m3 s–1.
Four-Dimensional Printing of Alternate-Actuated Composite Structures for Reversible Deformation under Continuous Reciprocation Loading
Authors: Chu Guanghao , Zhou Bin , Shao Guangbin , Zhang Dianjin , Li Longqiu
Published: May 2021

Four-dimensional (4D) printed structures are usually designed with reduced stiffness to enlarge the deformation response and weaken the loading capacity in actuated states. These actuators are suitable for non-persistent loads, such as is involved in grabbing action by a 4D printed claw. However, reduced stiffness cannot support continuous external loads during actuation. To tackle the trade-off between deformation and loading capacity, we propose herein a design using alternate actuation to attain competent loading capacity in different deformed states. In this alternate design, each unit consists of two actuated components featuring the same deformation but reciprocal stiffness, which provides the overall structural stiffness required to attain competent loading capacity during the entire deformation process. The two components are programmed to have the deformation behavior and are stimulated by thermal-expansion mismatch between polylactic acid (PLA) and carbon-fiber-reinforced PLA. An actuator featuring alternate components was designed and 4D printed to contrast its loading capacity with that of the traditional design. Experiments demonstrate a significantly improved loading capacity during actuation. This work thus provides a designing strategy for 4D printed actuators to retain competent loading capacity during the entire deformation process, which may open promising routes for applications with continuous external loads, such as 4D printed robotic arms, walking robots, and deformable wheels.