bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vertical and horizontal eye movement responses to unilateral and bilateral bone conducted vibration to the mastoid
Authors: Cornell Elaine D. , Burgess Ann M. , MacDougall Hamish G. , Curthoys Ian S.
Published: December 2019

Bone-conducted vibration (BCV) delivered to the skull causes linear acceleration of the mastoids and results in small potentials (oVEMPs) from the extraocular muscles in humans. Very small eye movements to both air- and bone-conducted sound with latencies of around 9 ms and amplitudes up to 16.5 mdeg have also been reported (where mdeg = millidegrees =0.001 degree). To clarify the otolith-ocular responses we investigated the effect of unilateral and bilateral BCV (500 Hz of the mastoid) on eye movements in human subjects, and the effect of gaze position on these movements using a video-based eye-movement recording system. We found very small, short-latency eye-movement responses similar to those previously reported, but these were followed by larger (up to 0.57°) prolonged responses peaking at around 120 ms post-stimulus. For unilateral stimulation the eyes moved downwards when directed away from the stimulated mastoid and upwards when directed towards stimulation. Horizontal movements were towards the stimulated mastoid with little effect of gaze position. Bilateral stimulation enhanced the downward responses, suggesting that the depressor muscles are preferentially activated by BCV. Bilateral stimulation either eliminated the horizontal response or produced convergence of the eyes: the convergence suggests that the eye-movement response is probably primarily driven by the contralateral mastoid.
Vestibular evoked myogenic potentials: Test-retest reliability and normative values obtained with a feedback method for the sternocleidomastoid muscle contraction
Authors: Vanspauwen R. , Wuyts F.L. , Van de Heyning P.H.
Published: December 2019

Objective: To determine normal limits and to analyse the test-retest reliability of the vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMPs) parameters. Methods: The VEMP procedure was repeated on different test days to analyze test-retest differences. We calculated several reliability parameters: intraclass reliability coefficient (ICC), method error (ME), coefficient of variation of the method error (CV M E ), standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal difference (MD) for test-retest measurements. Normal values for left-right differences, based on the interaural ratio (IAR), were determined. Results: For each VEMP parameter, the ICC values indicated excellent reliability, except for p13 and corrected amplitude (fair to good reliability). The CV M E values were less than 7% for p13, n23, threshold, MRV f e m a l e s and MRV m a l e s . For the parameters corrected amplitude and raw amplitude, the CV M E values exceeded 15%. The 95% IAR prediction intervals (PIs) were also largest for the parameters raw amplitude and corrected amplitude. Conclusion: In order to evaluate a VEMP outcome in a patient, the VEMP parameters and IAR values can be compared with the 95% PI of the normal values. When successive measurements are performed within the same subjects, the minimal difference (MD) serves as a tool to decide whether these differences are clinically relevant or not.
Rebalancing the commissural system: Mechanisms of vestibular compensation
Authors: Olabi Bayanne , Bergquist Filip , Dutia Mayank B.
Published: December 2019

Vestibular compensation after unilateral vestibular loss is a complex, multi-factored process involving synaptic and neuronal plasticity in many areas of the brain, and it is a challenge to identify the key sites of plasticity that determine the rate and extent of behavioural recovery. Experimental evidence strongly implicates the vestibular commissural inhibitory system which links the brainstem vestibular nuclei of the two sides, both in causing the initial severe oculomotor and postural symptoms of vestibular deafferentation, and in the subsequent recovery that takes place in the early stages of compensation. Of particular interest are changes in GABAergic neurotransmission within the commissural system, and the possibility that histaminergic drugs as well as stress steroids and neurosteroids that can modulate compensation, may do so at least in part by their effects on commissural inhibition. A fuller understanding of the role of the commissural system in compensation and the effects of GABAergic neuromodulators is likely to reveal the mechanisms of action of histamine in the vestibular system and the interactions between stress, anxiety and vestibular dysfunction.
The influence of music on static posturography
Authors: Forti Stella , Filipponi Eliana , Di Berardino Federica , Barozzi Stefania , Cesarani Antonio
Published: December 2019

It is well known that high intensity sounds modify balance by activating the saccule, which is sensitive to both vestibular and acoustic stimuli. Few studies have examined the effects of music on the postural responses in healthy subjects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different types of music (Mozart, Köhler, Köhler with a carrier of 12 KHz and subjects' favourite music) on twelve healthy subjects standing on a stabilometric platform. With each type of music, all subjects underwent static posturography with eyes opened and eyes closed, and with and without foam pads. We evaluated the length and the surface of body sway and the correlation between them, and we analyzed the visual, vestibular and somatosensory sub-components. Listening to different types of music did not significantly change the stabilometric variables, with the exception of listening to Mozart's Jupiter, which caused a significant reduction in the visual component with a consequent increase in both the vestibular and somatosensory inputs. Further studies are needed to determine the effect of Mozart's music in modifying the sensory strategy in the rehabilitation of patients with vestibular impairments.
Attenuation of trunk acceleration during walking in patients with unilateral vestibular deficiencies
Authors: Wilhelmsen Kjersti , Glad Nordahl Stein Helge , Moe-Nilssen Rolf
Published: December 2019

Objective: Head stability, central for balance control during locomotion, is associated with attenuation of trunk oscillations. The study aimed at exploring trunk attenuation in patients with unilateral vestibular disorder (UVD) assuming it was compromised, and to see if attenuation could be influenced by vestibular rehabilitation therapy. Methods: Patients with UVD (N=21), mean age (SD): 50.7 (11.5) years, women: 57%, were tested before and after intervention. Patients walked at different velocities with triaxial accelerometers over the lower and upper trunk. Normalization of data allowed comparison across patients over time. Self-reported symptoms and perception of handicap were registered. Results: Acceleration was significantly higher at the lower compared to the upper trunk on both occasions. Increased accelerations at the lower and decreased accelerations at the upper trunk following intervention caused attenuation to increase along the antero-posterior (p=0.05) and medio-lateral axes (p< 0.01). Cadence was reduced (p=0.01), step-length increased (p= 0.01), and self-reported balance (p=0.05) and handicap (p<0.01) improved. Conclusion: More effective attenuation of trunk oscillations was found during walking following intervention. The observed increased stability of the upper trunk is compatible with improved head control, and this was associated with increased mobility of the lower trunk facilitating balance control during ambulation. Trunk accelerations may be useful for identification of balance control in UVD patients.
Immunohistochemical and biomolecular identification of 5-HT7 receptor in rat vestibular nuclei
Authors: Khalmuratova Roza , Hah Young-Sool , Ahn Seong-Ki , Jeon Sea-Yuong , Kim Jin-Pyeong , Balaban Carey D.
Published: December 2019

The association between migraine and balance disorder morbidities has been a topic of interest for many years, and serotonin (5-HT) receptor is known to be closely related with migraine and also to be associated with vestibular symptoms. However, the mechanism underlying the pathogenesis of migrainous vertigo and its association with 5-HT has not been elucidated. Of the many 5-HT receptors, 5-HT 7 receptor has recently attracted attention in the context of migraine treatment. The purpose of this study was to investigate the localization and expression of 5-HT 7 receptor in the rat vestibular nuclei by immunohistochemical staining and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The present study might provide additional insight into the role of 5-HT 7 receptor in the pathogenesis of migraine-related vestibular symptoms.
Intrinsic physiology of identified neurons in the prepositus hypoglossi and medial vestibular nuclei
Authors: Kolkman Kristine E. , Moghadam Setareh H. , du Lac Sascha
Published: December 2019

Signal processing in the vestibular system is influenced by the intrinsic physiological properties of neurons that differ in neurotransmitters and circuit connections. Do membrane and firing properties differ across functionally distinct cell types? This study examines the intrinsic physiology of neurons in the medial vestibular nucleus (MVN) and nucleus prepositus hypoglossi (NPH) which express different neurotransmitters and have distinct axonal projections. NPH neurons expressing fluorescent proteins in glutamatergic, glycinergic, or GABAergic neurons were targeted for whole-cell patch recordings in brainstem slices obtained from transgenic mouse lines (YFP-16, GlyT2, and GIN). Recordings from MVN neurons projecting to the spinal cord, reticular formation, or oculomotor nucleus were obtained by targeting fluorescent neurons retrogradely labeled from tracer injections. Intrinsic physiological properties of identified neurons exhibited continuous variations but tended to differ between functionally defined cell types. Within the NPH, YFP-16 neurons had the narrowest action potentials and highest evoked firing rates and expressed high levels of Kv3.3 proteins, which speed repolarization. MVN neurons projecting to the spinal cord and oculomotor nucleus had similar action potential waveforms, but oculomotor-projecting neurons had higher intrinsic gains than those projecting to the spinal cord. These results indicate that intrinsic membrane properties are differentially tuned in MVN and NPH neurons subserving different functions.
Subjective visual vertical in patients with idiopatic scoliosis
Authors: Čakrt Ondřej , Slabý Kryštof , Viktorinová Lucie , Kolář Pavel , Jeřábek Jaroslav
Published: December 2019

Idiopathic scoliosis (IS) is characterized by a three-dimensional deviation of the vertebral column and its etiopathogenesis is unknown. Various factors are associated with idiopathic scoliosis, among these a prominent role has been attributed to integration of vestibular information with graviception for perception of space. Subjective visual vertical (SVV) is a sensitive sign of verticality perception. The aim of this study was to determine if SVV in adolescents with IS is different from healthy controls. Examination of SVV was performed using the bucket method. Binocular measurements of SVV were made in 23 adolescents with IS (age 14.5 ± 2.5, mean ± SD) and 23 healthy subjects (age 14.0 ± 2.9). The groups differed significantly on SVV deviation (p < 0.01): healthy controls (−0.04° ± 0.64°), IS group (0.86° ± 1.39°). There was also significant difference in SVV uncertainty (p < 0.001): healthy controls (1.50° ± 0.94°), IS group (2.46 ± 0.82°). We conclude that the perception of visual vertical is altered in IS which may play role in development of IS.
International guidelines for education in vestibular rehabilitation therapy
Authors: Cohen Helen S. , Gottshall Kim R. , Graziano Mariella , Malmstrom Eva-Maj , Sharpe Margaret H. , Whitney Susan L.
Published: December 2019

The Barany Society Ad Hoc Committee on Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy has developed guidelines for developing educational programs for continuing education. These guidelines may be useful to individual therapists who seek to learn about vestibular rehabilitation or who seek to improve their knowledge bases. These guidelines may also be useful to professional organizations or therapists who provide continuing education in vestibular rehabilitation. We recommend a thorough background in basic vestibular science as well as an understating of current objective diagnostic testing and diagnoses, understanding of common tests used by therapists to assess postural control, vertigo and ability to perform activities of daily living. We recommend that therapists be familiar with the evidence supporting efficacy of available treatments as well as with limitations in the current research.
Clinical clues to a dizzying headache
Authors: Staab Jeffrey P.
Published: December 2019

Recent years have witnessed an upsurge of interest in migraine as a cause of vestibular symptoms. Starting with 1970s case reports linking migraine to childhood vertigo, neurotologists worldwide have increasingly diagnosed migraine. Various syndromes of vestibular migraine (VM) have been described, diagnostic criteria proposed, epidemiologic data collected, and neurophysiologic models developed. Yet, the concept that migraine causes vestibular symptoms rests on a surprisingly thin research database. Current concepts of VM are based on expert opinion, not empirical data. No general consensus exists about the definition of VM. No studies have analyzed its essential features. Just one well-controlled medication trial has been published. No biomarkers are known. To stimulate more rigorous research, this paper poses three questions about clinical investigations into migraine and vestibular symptoms: What variables should be measured? What patients should be studied? How might clinical trials yield both clinically useful results and greater insights into pathophysiologic processes? Using these questions, the limits of current knowledge are explored. Applicable research methods from epidemiology to genetics are examined. Pilot data demonstrating pharmacologic and genetic dissection techniques are presented. Ambitious, but practical, near-term clinical research goals are enumerated, including rigorous validation of diagnostic criteria and development of empirically derived management guidelines.
Effects of plateau time and ramp time on ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potentials1
Authors: Cheng Yu-Lin , Wu Huei-Jun , Lee Guo-She
Published: December 2019

The responses of ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potential (oVEMP) vary significantly with the type and setting of the stimuli. This work was to investigate the effects of different ramp time and plateau time on oVEMP latency and amplitude. Twenty-two healthy volunteers aged from 20 years to 39 years were enrolled. The oVEMPs were acquired with the eyes upwards-gaze 30 degree above the head, and the sound stimuli included 0.1-ms click, and 500-Hz short tone burst (STB) of rise-plateau-fall time of 0.5-2-0.5 ms, 0.5-4-0.5 ms, 2-2-2 ms, and 2-4-2 ms. The response rate of click oVEMP (66%) was lower than STB oVEMP (100%). The click oVEMP amplitude was significantly smaller (p < 0.01, one-way ANOVA and post-hoc Scheffe procedure). The latency n1 increased by 1.4 ms as the rise/fall time shifted from 0.5 ms to 2 ms for STB stimuli. However, the latency and amplitude did not show significant difference between the STB stimuli with different plateau times. The lower amplitude and response rate for click oVEMP were associated with its lower mechanical energy of click, especially the energy from 500 to 1000 Hz.
The effect of galvanic vestibular stimulation on distortion product otoacoustic emissions
Authors: Cevette Michael J. , Cocco Daniela , Pradhan Gaurav N. , Galea Anna M. , Wagner Linsey S. , Oakley Sarah R. , Smith Benn E. , Zapala David A. , Brookler Kenneth H. , Stepanek Jan
Published: December 2019

Galvanic stimulation has long been used as a nonmechanical means of activating the vestibular apparatus through direct action on the vestibular nerve endings. This stimulation has been reported to be safe, but no studies have examined the potential changes in the corresponding cochlear receptors. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS) on distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs). Fourteen subjects underwent DPOAEs during several conditions of GVS. The DPOAEs ranged from ∼ 1 kHz to ∼ 8 kHz at 65/55 dB for f1/f2 and with an f2/f1 ratio of 1.2. The subjects were evaluated at 10 stimulation conditions that ranged from −2.0 mA to +2.0 mA for each frequency. Statistical analysis showed no significant differences in DPOAE amplitudes for all conditions with and without GVS. Results also showed no significant differences between DPOAE amplitudes before and after GVS. Multivariate analysis found subject variability in DPOAE amplitude, which was not thought to be GVS related. Results indicated that GVS produced neither temporary nor permanent changes in DPOAEs.
Postural performance of vestibular loss patients under increased postural threat1
Authors: Young Laurence R. , Bernard-Demanze Laurence , Dumitrescu Michel , Magnan Jacques , Borel Liliane , Lacour Michel
Published: December 2019

The effects of increasing postural task difficulty on balance control was investigated in 9 compensated vestibular loss patients whose results were compared to 11 healthy adults. Subjects were tested in static (stable support) and dynamic (sinusoidal translation of the support) conditions, both at floor level and at height (62 cm above the floor), and with and without vision, to create an additional postural threat. Wavelet analysis of the center of foot pressure displacement and motion analysis of the body segments were used to evaluate the postural performance. Evaluation questionnaires were used to examine the compensation level of the patients (DHI test), their general anxiety level (SAST), fear of height (subjective scale), and workload (NASA TLX test). (Vestibular loss patients rely more on vision and spend more energy maintaining balance than controls, but they use the same postural strategy as normals in both static and dynamic conditions.) Questionnaire data all showed differences in behavior and perceptions between the controls and the patients. However, at height and without vision, a whole body strategy leading to rigid posture replaces the head stabilization strategy found for standing at floor level. The effects of height on postural control can be attributable to an increase in postural threat and attention changes resulting from modifications in perception.
Relationships between Observer and Kalman Filter models for human dynamic spatial orientation1
Authors: Selva Pierre , Oman Charles M.
Published: December 2019

How does the central nervous system (CNS) combine sensory information from semicircular canal, otolith, and visual systems into perceptions of rotation, translation and tilt? Over the past four decades, a variety of input-output ("black box") mathematical models have been proposed to predict human dynamic spatial orientation perception and eye movements. The models have proved useful in vestibular diagnosis, aircraft accident investigation, and flight simulator design. Experimental refinement continues. This paper briefly reviews the history of two widely known model families, the linear "Kalman Filter" and the nonlinear "Observer". Recent physiologic data supports the internal model assumptions common to both. We derive simple 1-D and 3-D examples of each model for vestibular inputs, and show why – despite apparently different structure and assumptions – the linearized model predictions are dynamically equivalent when the four free model parameters are adjusted to fit the same empirical data, and perceived head orientation remains near upright. We argue that the motion disturbance and sensor noise spectra employed in the Kalman Filter formulation may reflect normal movements in daily life and perceptual thresholds, and thus justify the interpretation that the CNS cue blending scheme may well minimize least squares angular velocity perceptual errors.
Posturography and locomotor tests of dynamic balance after long-duration spaceflight
Authors: Cohen Helen S. , Kimball Kay T. , Mulavara Ajitkumar P. , Bloomberg Jacob J. , Paloski William H.
Published: December 2019

The currently approved objective clinical measure of standing balance in astronauts after space flight is the Sensory Organization Test battery of computerized dynamic posturography. No tests of walking balance are currently approved for standard clinical testing of astronauts. This study determined the sensitivity and specificity of standing and walking balance tests for astronauts before and after long-duration space flight. Astronauts were tested on an obstacle avoidance test known as the Functional Mobility Test (FMT) and on the Sensory Organization Test using sway-referenced support surface motion with eyes closed (SOT 5) before and six months after (n=15) space flight on the International Space Station. They were tested two to seven days after landing. Scores on SOT tests decreased and scores on FMT increased significantly from pre- to post-flight. In other words, post-flight scores were worse than pre-flight scores. SOT and FMT scores were not significantly related. ROC analyses indicated supra-clinical cut-points for SOT 5 and for FMT. The standard clinical cut-point for SOT 5 had low sensitivity to post-flight astronauts. Higher cut-points increased sensitivity to post-flight astronauts but decreased specificity to pre-flight astronauts. Using an FMT cut-point that was moderately highly sensitive and highly specific plus SOT 5 at the standard clinical cut-point was no more sensitive than SOT 5, alone. FMT plus SOT 5 at higher cut-points was more specific and more sensitive. The total correctly classified was highest for FMT, alone, and for FMT plus SOT 5 at the highest cut-point. These findings indicate that standard clinical comparisons are not useful for identifying problems. Testing both standing and walking balance will be more likely to identify balance deficits.
Timing of Tracheostomy, Weaning from Mechanical Ventilation and Duration of Hospitalization among a Sample of Pediatric Patients
Authors: Ferrolino Jose Brian , Lapeña Jose Florencio , Carrillo Ryner Jose
Published: December 2019

Objective: To determine if there is a difference in the duration of mechanical ventilation and hospitalization between patients who underwent early compared to late tracheostomy.

Methods:

     Design:                Causal-Comparative (ex post facto) Chart Review

     Setting:                Tertiary National University Hospital

     Participants:                   Records of 68 pediatric patients who underwent elective tracheostomy from January 1, 2013 to June 30, 2018 were considered for inclusion. Patients were excluded if invasive mechanical ventilation was not done prior to tracheostomy, if they underwent emergency tracheostomy or had incomplete records. Selected patients were categorized in the early tracheostomy group if the procedure was performed within 14 days of mechanical ventilation and late tracheostomy group if performed beyond 14 days. Early post-tracheostomy weaning from mechanical ventilation was defined as less than 7 days from time of tracheostomy.

Results: A total of 21 patients were included, 6 in the early tracheostomy group and 15 in the late tracheostomy group. Although early tracheostomy did not show significant association with shortened post-tracheostomy duration of mechanical ventilation (O.R. 6; C.I. 0.276 to 130.322; p = .476), two-sample t-tests showed the early tracheostomy group had a significantly shorter mean duration of mechanical ventilation and hospitalization compared to the late tracheostomy group (13.17 vs. 54.13 days, p = .0012; 21.17 vs. 66.67 days, p = .0032).

Conclusion: Although early tracheostomy does not shorten post-tracheostomy mechanical ventilation support, there is a significant difference in the duration of mechanical ventilation and hospitalization between early and late tracheostomy groups and this may suggest potential benefits of performing tracheostomy earlier in children.

 

Keywords: tracheotomy; pediatric; mechanical ventilation; hospitalization
Timing of Tracheostomy and Outcomes in Adults with Moderate and Severe Tetanus
Authors: Espinosa Wenrol , Vinco Von
Published: December 2019

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the timing of tracheostomy and relationship to outcomes (length of hospital stay, length of mechanical ventilation, morbidity and mortality rate) in adults with moderate and severe tetanus. 

Methods:

            Design:           Cross-Sectional Study

            Setting:           Tertiary Government Training Hospital

            Patients:         All adult patients (19 years old and above) diagnosed with moderate and    severe stage tetanus from January 2015 to January 2018 were considered for inclusion.

Results: There were 109 patients included in this study, majority were males (n=95) with a male to female ratio of 7:1. Most belonged to the 51-60 years age group (mean: 53.7 SD: +/-16.1). Based on Cole Tetanus staging, the majority presented with severe stage tetanus (67.9%; n=74). Only 35.8% (n=39) were admitted at the Intensive Care Unit. Early tracheostomy was performed in 56.0% (n=61) of the patients (mean 6.3 hours SD: +/- 4.61). Mortality rate was noted to be 52.3% (n=57). Overall, early tracheostomy among moderate to severe stage tetanus patients showed shorter length of hospital stay and length of mechanical ventilation than  late tracheostomy (tracheostomy >24 hours) (p-value < .05). However, no significant difference was noted for timing of tracheostomy in terms of morbidity and mortality rate (p-value > .05).

Conclusion: Early tracheostomy within less than 24 hours from time of admission for moderate and severe tetanus is associated with shorter length of hospital stay and mechanical ventilation than late tracheostomy, and may play a role in tetanus management.

Keywords: tracheostomy; tetanus; hospital stay; mechanical ventilation; morbidity; mortality
Pemberian Terapi Trauma Healing Bagi Sekolah Dasar Terdampak Gempa Dan Tsunami Kota Padang
Authors: Handayani Sri , R Dwi Christina , Angelia Inge , Paedede Ropendi
Published: December 2019

SDN 19 Air Tawar merupakan SD yang berjarak 2 km dari kampus STIKES Syedza Saintika dan berjarak 700 m dari bibir laut. SD ini memiliki 6 kelas dengan jumlah murid 135 orang. Dalam sebulan terakhir telah 4 kali siswa dihentikan pembelajaran dan pulang  begitu saja dikarenakan adanya gempa serta 7 orang siswa cidera (4 orang terbentur dan 3 orang terjatuh) karena berdesakkan keluar saat terjadinya gempa. Tidak hanya itu, dalam 6 bulan terakhir ada 1 orang siswa yang hilang selama  2 hari 1 malam dikarenakan berlari saat gempa terjadi dan tidak ingat lagi jalan untuk pulang kerumahnya. Hal  ini memperlihatkan trauma akan gempa masih ada dalam diri siswa tersebut. Masih traumanya siswa selain disebabkan oleh karena posisi sekolah di bibir pantai juga disebabkan karena belum  siaganya baik siswa maupun lingkungan sekolah  terhadap bencana gempa maupun tsunami. Dalam mengatasi masalah ini, ada beberapa solusi yang telah dilakukan yaitu  pertama, memberikan terapi trauma healing kepada siswa dengan cara duduk berkelompok (satu kelompok terdiri dari 10 sampai 11 orang), masing – masing orang dikelompok  menceritakan masa lalu mereka mengenai gempa dan potensi tsunami dan hal – hal yang dapat mereka lakukan saat terjadi bencana.
Touching the Elephant
Authors: Bista Krishna
Published: December 2019

In this editorial essay, the author uses the Indian parable known as The Blind Men and an Elephant to illustrate different perspectives that may frame the international student experience. It discusses the abundance of blinders and high stakes in a growth industry. The editorial illustrates the need to shift perspectives and widen the circle of support and why a holistic approach matters.
Social Support and Stress-Related Acculturative Experiences of an English-speaking Afro-Caribbean Female Student in U.S. Higher Education
Authors: Rahming Sophia
Published: December 2019

This two-year qualitative single critical case study research investigated the stress-related adjustment experiences and academic progression of a female English-speaking Afro-Caribbean collegian in an American postsecondary institution through the lens of the “triple bind” phenomenon and the stress buffer hypothesis. Student development theory and research on college student outcomes have largely focused on Black students’ experiences and achievement outcomes through a homogeneous African American cultural lens. Minimal existing research has shown differences in the lived experiences and achievement outcomes between Afro-Caribbean students and domestic African American students in U.S. postsecondary education.
Academic Stressors as Predictors of Achievement Goal Orientations of American and ESL International Students
Authors: Lin Xi , Su Shu , McElwain Alyssa
Published: December 2019

This study explores academic stressors and achievement goal orientations of college students, and the relationship between these variables using academic stressors as predictors. As the number of English as a Second Language (ESL) international students has increased rapidly in the US, students’ status (American or ESL international) was also examined. A total of 715 students participated in the study from two universities in the US. Results show that ESL international and American students have different achievement goal orientations and academic stressors. Additionally, student status and academic stressors predict college students’ various goal orientations. The implications provide useful suggestions to higher education professionals in order to better understand and assist diverse students to succeed in academia.
Teaching for Transfer to First-Year L2 Writers
Authors: Cui Wenqi
Published: December 2019

Previous studies have identified that genres and genre knowledge are not only pivotal for the development of writing expertise but also for facilitating writing-related transfer. However, little research concerns issues of teaching genres for writing transfer to first-year English as a second language (L2) writers at universities in the US. This article attempts to develop a genre-based pedagogic framework for L2 transfer teaching, aiming to help first-year L2 students address linguistic, rhetorical, and genre-bound challenges they confront and improve their writing expertise, as well as develop their ability of writing transfer across disciplines. The goals of this article are dual: (a) to address an existing gap in the literature and research on transfer, and (b) provide academic writing instructions for teaching first-year L2 writers at universities in the United States.
Deepening Crisis of the US Political System: Causes, Signs and Consequences
Authors: TRAVKINA Natalia , VASILIEV Vladimir
Published: December 2019

The most important background element of a profound crisis of the US political system has been the steady decline of the American public confidence in government. Fundamental changes have occurred in the mechanism used in Washington to adopt major reforms and other initiatives, which are now carried out exclusively on a one-party basis. In turn, this further reinforces political polarization, leading to a triumph of destructive “zero-sum games” when the ruling party’s objective boils down to dismantling the legacy left by the opposing party. All that has become particularly vivid under the Trump administration in 2017–2019.
Assessment of Rutting Resistance and Healing for Stone Matrix Asphalt Concrete (SMAC)
Authors: Sarsam Saad Issa , Khalil Shahed Mahmood
Published: December 2019

Stone Matrix Asphalt Concrete (SMAC) is known as tough, stable, rut-resistant mixture. In this investigation, SMAC was prepared in the laboratory using gap graded aggregates, asphalt cement, mineral filler and coal fly ash as stabilizing agent. Specimens were prepared using static compaction to the target density based on asphalt content for each case. The prepared Specimens were subjected to the 1200 repeated compressive stresses at 25 ºC under various stress levels using the pneumatic repeated load system PRLS. Specimens were subjected to microcrack healing process by external heating for 120 minutes at 60 °C, then it practices another cycle of repeated compressive stresses. The resilient modulus, permanent deformation, and rutting resistance under three levels of stress have been assessed. It was concluded that the resilient modulus Mr increases by (66, 50 and 31) %, (36, 50 and 31) % and (62, 37 and 69) %, while the permanent deformation decreases by (25, 11.4 and 25) %, (19, 31.6 and 14.5) % and (14, 9 and 8.3) % after implementation of fly ash at (OAC-0.5, OAC and OAC+0.5) % binder content under (0.068, 0.138 and 0.206) MPa of repeated compressive stress respectively. The resilient modulus increased by (17.6, 15.3, 10.5) % , (42.8, 51, 37.5) % and (18.7, 25, 23.6) %  and the permanent deformation decline by (3.52, 31.66, 6.25) % under repeated compressive stresses of (0.068, 0.138, 0.206) MPa at (25 °C) after healing for mix with (4.6, 5.1, 5.6) % asphalt content  respectively when compared with mixtures before healing.
Behaviour of Nitrogen Soluble Forms in Natural Water in the Presence of Anionic and Cationic Surfactants and Mineral Substrates
Authors: Spataru Petru , Fernandez Francisco , Povar Igor , Spataru Tudor
Published: December 2019

The redox processes, organic substances accumulation, chemical equilibria and adsorption of organic substances on the substrate surface function of natural water compositions and substrate granule sizes have been investigated. Laboratory simulations have been carried out for the Nistru and Isnovat river waters. The natural water models containing laurylsulphate (LS) as anionic surfactant (SAS An) and cetyltrimethylammonium (CTMA) as cationic surfactant (SAS Ct), separately and in a body, as well as the substrates Al(OH)3, Al2O3, CaCO3, H2SiO3, light fraction (clayey) of diatomite and expanded clay powder have been studied. The timely distribution of the soluble nitrogen species containing NH4+, NO2- and NO3- in the samples of natural waters has been analyzed. It has been found that LS diminishes the redox processes braking due to the partial fixation of toxic organic matter. Similar, but more pronounced enhancement impact on oxidation of nitrite ions as a result of fixation and sedimentation of organic components has been found in the case of the calcium carbonate powder. Also, CaCO3 produces a better SAS Ct separation/inactivation of organic part in the presence of both anionic and cationic SASs. A water self-purification processes effectiveness in polluted river waters decreases in the CaCO3, Al(OH)3, Al2O3, H2SiO3, light fraction (clayey) of diatomite, expanded clay powder substrate series.
Tempeh Antioxidant Activity using DPPH Method: Effects of Fermentation, Processing, and Microorganisms
Authors: Barus Tati , Titarsole Novalin Novita , Mulyono Noryawati , Prasasty Vivitri Dewi
Published: December 2019

Tempeh is the main type of traditional Indonesian food that is processed from soybeans fermented by Rhizopus microsporus. This study aims to measure the antioxidant activity of some kind tempeh using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). Measurement of antioxidant activity toward tempeh took directly from the producer, tempeh produced on a laboratory scale using Rhizopus spp., Bacillus spp., and Klebsiella sp. K110, tempeh fried and steamed, and tempeh during the fermentation stage. The results showed that the fermentation process soybeans into soybean increase antioxidant activity. The antioxidant activity of tempeh from producers varies between approximately 52-70%. It is because of tempeh fermented at uncontrol conditions so that the microorganisms involved in the fermentation time is also uncontrol. Potential microorganisms vary in determining antioxidant activity. In the group of Rhizopus spp. (ATH 35, ATH 24, ATH 53), it showed that the highest antioxidant activity was found in ATH 35 (84%). In the group of Bacillus spp. the highest antioxidant activity produced by B. megaterium (76%) and higher than the Klebsiella sp. K110 (75%). Thus, the fermented soybeans into tempeh increase antioxidant activity. The existence of the antioxidant activity of tempeh was affected by strains of microorganisms involved during fermentation and processing time that will be consumed.
WOMEN'S ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT THROUGH HOME BUSINESS FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT IN NORTH KEMBANGAN
Authors: Z Annisa Hakim , Utami Fransisca Listyaningsih , Ali Anees Janee , Ali Anees Janee
Published: December 2019

The growth rate of women entrepreneurs is increasing. This is the most flexible business that can be carried out by women because the main work as a wife and mother can be carried out simultaneously. Women don't need to work outside the home. But the problems that occur there are still women who are not yet entrepreneurs, some are not smoothly running their businesses, so they cannot develop. Therefore, the Community Service Team at Mercu Buana University identified the problems faced by mothers in North Kembangan related to the problems of the business they run. The main problem is the lack of telalten mothers separate business finance with household interests. Thus, the Community Service Team will provide business financial management socialization.
INVENTORY MANAGEMENT: RAW MATERIALS FOR SMALL ENTERPRISE
Authors: Nusraningrum Dewi , Nhan Truong Trong
Published: December 2019

This community service is an activity related to community economic empowerment through understanding the supplies of raw materials. Problems that arise on the supply of raw materials requires capital and affect submission to the customer. In order to support the efforts of the economic empowerment of the community outreach and training about the usefulness of the inventory of raw materials through the citizens who live in the village of partners will help citizens find out how partners do materials inventory management to improve the welfare of society. For that these activities would provide mentoring and training skills inventory management of raw materials, in order to be later able to apply them in the activities of partners to manage its business. External expected can be realized from this activity are: (1) the development of raw material inventory management knowledge on the citizens of the Small Enterprise. (2) the formation of social groups care inventory management on Small Enterprise.
PREVENTION OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE
Authors: Adiningtyas Nurul
Published: December 2019

Currently, there’s an increasing trend in child sexual abuse in Indonesia. Data obtained from Commission for Victim and Witness Protection (LPSK) showed that the number of CSA cases reported in 2018 were doubled from those in 2017. Like many of CSA cases, the perpetrators were someone familiar to the children, and in some cases, it’s their close relatives. LPSK stated that only less than 20% of the perpetrator were strangers.Unfortunately, most CSA cases goes unreported. A study conducted by Wismayantia, et al (2019) shows that lack of knowledge about CSA and insufficient sex education due to the uncomfortable feeling to talk about sexual matters played a significant role in the reluctance to report CSA cases. Moreover, there’s a tendency to not report a CSA that were conducted by a family member because most family felt the need to protect the family’s name. This program were conducted in North Kembangan Village and aimed to provide an educational overview of the dangers of the effects of CSA. The method provided were introduction and discussion between participants.
OPERATIONAL STRATEGY OF SMEs IN BUSINESS COMPETITION THROUGH ENVIRONMENT BASED PRODUCTS / SERVICES IN SOUTH MERUYA – WEST JAKARTA
Authors: Hariadi Agustinus , Nawangsari Lenny Christina
Published: December 2019

This community service is carried out to encourage the community to be creative and independent with entrepreneurs. Activities can be carried out by partnering, building partnerships will make it easier and more excited. The community of South Meruya village has partnered with PKK and RPTRA Menara, also to help one of the DKI Jakarta government programs. Residents have carried out production activities, if there is a desire or order, for that the scale of production and marketing needs to be increased. These community activities can be expanded to reach products and services that begin with environmental problems that require involvement in conservation as well as having economic potential. It is expected that the community understands the importance of environmental sustainability as an economic resource that can be a source of income for the community. SMEs need to expand business alternatives while simultaneously becoming agents of pollution prevention and improving the quality of life together through a clean environment. The real pressure of pollution and environmental awareness issues has opened up new products that can be marketed. SME business people consider environmental aspects because their awareness of environmentally conscious consumers has increased. After the training and assistance of the SMEs South Meruya  community together with PKK will better understood the potential and strategies of a sustainable environment-based business.
TAKAKURA TRAINING FOR COMMUNITY EMPOWERING IN MANAGING DOMESTIC WASTE AT KAMPUNG TENGAH, KRAMAT JATI, JAKARTA TIMUR
Authors: Mulyawati Ira , Gusdini Ninin , Febrina Laila
Published: December 2019

One of the bigest problems cities in Indonesia such as Jakarta is still cannot be solve properly the problem of urban waste. The amount of municipal solid waste of DKI Jakarta based on data from the Ministry of Environment and Forestry in the 2017-2018 period is 6234.44 tons / day with 1.85 tons / day sourced from the city of East Jakarta. East Jakarta with its main market namely Kramat Jati market has a fairly complicated municipal waste problem, this has an impact on the amount of waste around the wholesale market, one of which is the village of Kampung Tengah. Kampung Tengah has a quite serious waste problem because the waste is not only produced from household waste, but from onion peeler craftsmen who later the onions are sold to the Kramat Jati market. To overcome these problems, one of the solution is by empowering the community in managing household waste. Therefor, Kampung Tengah communities are given knowledge about waste management through training. The training conducted is about how to use methods that are easy to apply and effective in reducing the amount of waste generation, namely the Takakura method. Participants given the training were focused on RW.10 with 25 participants. The result of the training is that the community has been able to apply the Takakura method to make compost from household waste.
EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS MAPPING AMONG STUDENTS OF ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION CERTIFICATION PROGRAM (PAKET C) AT MOBIL KELAS BERJALAN (MKB)
Authors: Aliyyah Irma Himmatul , Mardhatillah Amy
Published: December 2019

Aim of this community development program is to describe the employability skills among the students of alternative education certification program that called as Paket C, which organized by MKB. All of the students are working to support their life, and continue their education while working. Most of them working as the low payment job families such as scavengers, housemaid ect. The method used in this program including the assessment of employability skills, as well as personal feedback on how to improve their employability skills. 22 participants were participated in this program. Employability Skills are measured using Scans Skills Assessment (Roberts, Lynn, & et al, 2000). Result indicated that, the basic competencies for working students are at level three in which they can, but still need guidance and supervision. However, most of them are in the category of still need to study. In general, almost all of the competencies have not been mastered by students, so that several program can be organized to improved their employability skill.
MORAL ASPECT REVIEW BY THEORY OF ROBERT M. ENTMAN IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF JOKO WIDODO HUGS MOMENTS WITH PRABOWO SUBIANTO IN THE ASIAN GAMES 2018 (News from Cnnindonesia.com Edition 29 - 30 August 2018)
Authors: Maulana Khanna Fajar , Annissa Jeanie
Published: December 2019

This research discuss about construction carried out by online media cnnindonesia.com to moment hug Joko Widodo with Prabowo Subianto in organizing the 2018 Asian Games in the pencak silat sport. This research aims to understand moral aspect review by theory of Robert M. Entman in the construction of Joko Widodo hugs moments with Prabowo Subianto in the Asian Games 2018 (news from Cnnindonesia.com edition 29 – 30 August 2018). The theory used is Robert M. Entman framing analysis, which is defining problems, estimating problems or sources of problems, making moral decisions and emphasizing solutions. The method used is a descriptive qualitative approach. The data collection technique uses secondary data which emphasizes research literature. The results of this research explain that cnnindonesia.com shows the issue and constructs the news of  the moment to moral issues, Define Problems moral issues, namely the embrace of Jokowidodo and PrabowoSubianto together with Hanifan Yudani Kusumah martial arts athlete. Diagnosis Causes of hug moments can be an example for people to respect each other. Make Moral Judgment Hanifan Yudani Kusumah kissed the hands of Joko Widodo and Prabowo Subianto and embraced the two so they embraced tightly and asked their people to respect and respect each other. Treatment Recommendation hopes that the political contestation that takes place by the community can maintain mutual unity, togetherness and brotherhood.
DEVELOPMENT OF SAWARNA BEACH TOURISM OBJECT THROUGH ESTABLISHING CITY BRANDING
Authors: Kholisoh Nur
Published: December 2019

Sawarna Tourism Village is a tourist village in Bayah Sub-District, Lebak District, Banten. The village area is directly bordered by the Indian Ocean, and therefore, it is in a coastal area. Of 204 tourism objects in Banten Province, the charm of the beauty of Sawarna Beach tourist destination has its own magnetism fortourists. The beach beauty located in Bayah Subdistrict, Lebak is called as "Little Paradise" by foreign tourists from European and American countries and Australia particularly who like surfing. The location is far from the downtown and therefore, media access in Sawarna Village and its surroundings is relatively difficult. So far there are a few mass media whether they are print or electronic media that cover the natural beauty in Sawarna Village. This certainly affects the development of Sawarna beach tourism object as one of the mainstay tourist destinations in Banten Province. As a tourist object, Sawarna Beach is as good and attractive as similar tourist objects in Indonesia, such as those in Bali and Lombok. An important issue that Banten Provincial government should make the big concern relates to the City Branding Development. After participating in this counseling, it aims that Sawarna Villagers know and understand the importance of establishing the city branding to develop their beach tourism objects. Moreover, it is expected to empower the villagers around the Sawarna beach andtherefore, it will increase their income.