bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Literacy in statistics for the public discourse
Authors: Radermacher Walter J.
Published: July 2021

If one assesses the quality of statistics according to whether they are fit for purpose, one must put the question of this very purpose at the beginning, not only for the production of statistics, but also for their use and the literacy required. In this contribution, public discourse, political communication and decision-making processes are placed at the beginning of the argument. Official statistics work with a conceptual approach in which very much emphasis is placed on standardisation of products and processes, thus ensuring comparability of facts in regional and temporal terms. Only in this way can statistics be used as a common language to objectify conflicting issues. It is not about everyone being able to create his or her own statistical model of reality, quite the opposite. In this sense, public statistics are an infrastructure, comparable to rail transport. Moreover, statistical processes today are highly rationalised and industrialised, comparable to a factory. So, when approaching the question of what literacy is needed in this particular application area of statistics, the education and training of professional statisticians has accordingly specific requirements, which are in many ways comparable to what professions in other industries or in the operation of the railways should have as a basic qualification. For the citizen, the entrepreneur, the teacher, the student, etc., who wants to understand and apply the indicators of the public statistical sources, technical skills are of secondary importance. Rather, it is necessary to understand enough about the product and its properties to be able to judge its quality in the light of personal application goals and questions. This indeed already presupposes a lot of knowledge and experience in dealing with quantitative information. Such competencies do not necessarily belong to the field of mathematics but demand practice in interpreting indicators in their context, an assessment of the reliability of sources and processes, experience with graphical representations of statistics (including the flaws that may appear in them) and practice in assessing uncertainties, etc. One needs to know a certain amount about the data sources, the preparation processes, quality standards, etc., but not at the level that would be required if one were to carry out this work oneself.
Higher agreement in endovascular treatment decision-making than in parametric quantifications among automated CT perfusion software packages in acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Pérez-Pelegrí Manuel , Biarnés Carles , Thió-Henestrosa Santiago , Remollo Sebastià , Gimeno Alfredo , Cuba Víctor , Teceño Mikel , Martí-Navas Marian , Serena Joaquín , Pedraza Salvador , Ruiz-Constantino Juan Sebastián , Puig Josep
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Estimates of parameters used to select patients for endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) for acute ischemic stroke differ among software packages for automated computed tomography (CT) perfusion analysis. To determine impact of these differences in decision making, we analyzed intra-observer and inter-observer agreement in recommendations about whether to perform EVT based on perfusion maps from 4 packages. METHODS: Perfusion CT datasets from 63 consecutive patients with suspected acute ischemic stroke were retrospectively postprocessed with 4 packages of Minerva, RAPID, Olea, and IntelliSpace Portal (ISP). We used Pearson correlation coefficients and Bland-Altman analysis to compare volumes of infarct core, penumbra, and mismatch calculated by Minerva and RAPID. We used kappa analysis to assess agreement among decisions of 3 radiologists about whether to recommend EVT based on maps generated by 4 packages. RESULTS: We found significant differences between using Minerva and RAPID to estimate penumbra (67.39±41.37mL vs. 78.35±45.38 mL, p < 0.001) and mismatch (48.41±32.03 vs. 61.27±32.73mL, p < 0.001), but not of infarct core (p = 0.230). Pearson correlation coefficients were 0.94 (95%CI:0.90–0.96) for infarct core, 0.87 (95%CI:0.79–0.91) for penumbra, and 0.72 (95%CI:0.57–0.83) for mismatch volumes (p < 0.001). Limits of agreements were (–21.22–25.02) for infarct core volumes, (–54.79–32.88) for penumbra volumes, and (–60.16–34.45) for mismatch volumes. Final agreement for EVT decision-making was substantial between Minerva vs. RAPID (k = 0.722), Minerva vs. Olea (k = 0.761), and RAPID vs. Olea (k = 0.782), but moderate for ISP vs. the other three. CONCLUSIONS: Despite quantitative differences in estimates of infarct core, penumbra, and mismatch using 4 software packages, their impact on radiologists’ decisions about EVT is relatively small.
Автори часопису
Authors: Журналу Редколегія
Published: July 2021

Автори часопису
Pola Hidup Sehat dan Penyusunan Menu Sehat dalam Masa New Normal Covid-19 kepada Dharma Wanita Pegawai Negeri Sipil Badan Pusat Statistik Simalungun
Authors: Sutiani Ani , Selly Rini , Permatasari Tyas , Damanik Marini
Published: July 2021

Pengenalan pembelajaran online sebagai bentuk pengabdian kepada masyarakat oleh Balai Penelitian dan Pengabdian Universitas Negeri Medan dengan sosialisasi life skill untuk mendapatkan hidup sehat dan penyiapan menu sehat di era New Normal Covid-19 telah dilaksanakan secara sipil. Serikat Pekerja Istri, Badan Pusat Statistik Simalungun. Pengenalan pembelajaran online sebagai bentuk pengabdian kepada masyarakat oleh Balai Penelitian dan Pengabdian Universitas Negeri Medan dengan sosialisasi life skill untuk mendapatkan hidup sehat dan penyiapan menu sehat di era New Normal Covid-19 telah dilaksanakan secara sipil. Persatuan Istri Pembantu Badan Pusat Statistik Kabupaten Simalungun. Dalam pertemuan tersebut, tidak hanya pengenalan ruang kelas Google tetapi juga pedoman gaya hidup sehat yang disosialisasikan. Kebutuhan nutrisi selama periode COVID -19 normal baru diusulkan di akhir. Program pembelajaran online dan offline. Hampir 80% peserta akrab dengan Google Kelas. Namun mengenai konten, tampilan, dan fungsi dari google classroom sendiri, sebagian besar peserta kurang paham. Apalagi, sekitar 75% peserta telah mengaplikasikan piring makan mereka sebagai tugas yang harus dikumpulkan melalui Google Classroom. Menu sehat pada sajian yang dikonsumsi para peserta setiap hari. Waktu penelitian terbatas, jadi ini hanya membutuhkan beberapa bagian dari studi google kelas. Kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat ini berlangsung sukses karena peserta merasa puas. Mereka tahu metode google classroom, pedoman gaya hidup sehat dan, nutrisi perlu persiapan selama COVID-19 normal yang baru.
SOSIALISASI PELATIHAN UNTUK MENINGKATKAN PRESTASI KERJA KARYAWAN DI PDAM TIRTANADI CABANG PADANG BULAN MEDAN
Authors: Nurul Ichsan Reza , Nasution Lukman
Published: July 2021

Pelatihan yang baik akan menghasilkan prestasi kerja yang baik pula sehingga menguntungkan perusahaan maupun karyawan, sebaliknya pelatihan yang buruk akan memberikan dampak merugikan bagi karyawan maupun perusahaan sehingga tujuan dari pada perusahaan tidak tercapai. Pelatihan terhadap sumber daya manusia menjadi kebutuhan yang akan menunjang perusahaan untuk meningkatkan kemampuan, yakni kemampuan perusahaan untuk tetap bertahan dan bersaing di era globalisasi ini. Pengabdian ini dilaksanakan di PDAM Tirtanadi Cabang Padang Bulan Medan. metode pelaksanaan yang digunakan adalah melalui kegiatan ceramah, diskusi dan tanya jawab tentang pelatihan untuk meningkatkan prestasi kerja karyawan di PDAM Tirtanadi Cabang Padang Bulan Medan. Acara sosialisasi ini melibatkan seluruh pegawai di lingkungan PDAM Tirtanadi Cabang Padang Bulan Medan untuk lebih memahamkan pentingnya pelatihan untuk meningkatkan prestasi kerja karyawan di PDAM Tirtanadi Cabang Padang Bulan Medan. Adapun hasil diskusi dalam kegiatan Sosialisasi pelatihan untuk meningkatkan prestasi kerja karyawan di PDAM Tirtanadi Cabang Padang Bulan Medan dapat berjalan dengan lancar. Semua peserta terlihat antusias dan merasakan manfaatnya. Keberhasilan ini ditunjukkan antara lain: (1) adanya kesesuaian materi dengan kebutuhan para guru untuk memahami tentang keselamatan kerja di lingkungan PT. PLN (Persero) Unit Induk Pembangunan II Medan. (2) adanya respon yang positif dari peserta yang ditunjukkan dengan adanya diskusi yang cukup hangat dalam rangka implementasi keselamatan kerja di lingkungan PT. PLN (Persero) Unit Induk Pembangunan II Medan.
Connaissance des formes de prévention et de contagion des IST chez les élèves inscrits dans les écoles publiques de la ville de Macapá, Amazonie, Brésil
Authors: Salviano Ana Laura Góes , Santana Giovanna Rocha , Dias Claudio Alberto Gellis de Mattos , Araújo Maria Helena Mendonça de , Oliveira Euzébio de , Dendasck Carla Viana , Santos Bruno Rodrigues dos , Fecury Amanda Alves
Published: July 2021

La sexualité a commencé à être considérée comme une portée positive de l’action humaine, dans ce contexte, elle a commencé à valoriser l’éducation sexuelle, soulevant des discussions sur son importance. Le but de cet article était d’analyser les connaissances sur les formes de contagion et la prévention des IST. Cette étude a été menée dans 03 écoles publiques de niveau élémentaire et secondaire. L’échantillon se composait de 287 élèves inscrits régulièrement dans ces écoles couvrant la 8e année / 7e année de l’école primaire jusqu’à la 3e année de l’école secondaire. Des données sur le sexe, l’âge, l’état matrimonial, le niveau de scolarité et d’autres ont été recueillies dans le cadre de la présente étude. La plupart des participants ont déjà été en contact avec le terme IST; cependant, il a encore des croyances sur ses formes de transmission. Il est nécessaire d’aborder la sexualité avec un aspect plus naturel et positif de la vie humaine, en fournissant la libre discussion des normes et des modèles de comportement et le débat sur les attitudes.
AN ANALYZING THE IMPACT PANDEMIC OF COVID-19 TO THE EDUCATION IN INDONESIA: STUDENTS, TEACHERS AND PARENTS
Authors: Dwiaryanti Risca , Rahman Fadali
Published: July 2021

Pandemic covid-19 has surprised people all over the world. It happen suddenly and give many impacts to all aspects of human’s life including education in Indonesia. Since, the minister of education and culture stated that all he activity of teaching and learning should be done at home by online learning, then it gives some positive and negative impact. The negative impacts are; not all teachers, studemts, or parents have a facility to access internet, nor use IT well, for example theachers who are old or students of pre school still need their parents’ help. Then, not all parent can earn money to buy internet quota.  Moreover, the positives impacts are; the students become familiar to use IT and it is safe for them to avoid covid-19 outbreak by studying at home.
Acerca de la Moda
Authors: Saavedra Eugenio
Published: July 2021

Después de hacer una breve síntesis sobre la medida de tendencia central moda, en datos no agrupados, se construye la fórmula para la moda en datos agrupados. Esta construcción se realiza a través de una relación de proporcionalidad, que se deriva comoconsecuencia de la búsqueda de un punto, cuya abscisa es la moda.
Pedagogias emancipatorias en el Abya Yala: Legados y reflexiones urgentes
Authors: Visotsky Jessica
Published: July 2021

Este trabajo se propone aportar al campo de la pedagogía latinoamericana desde las reflexiones que nacen de nuestras intervenciones, desde nuestra praxis. Se recupera el legado de dos contextos políticos y referentes de nuestra América se consideran relevantes:  por un lado la Revolución cubana, como un hito en el continente americano y el mundo, por el otro la experiencia en Brasil y puntualmente de Paulo Freire. Ambas, gestaron una praxis, que fue resultado de la acumulación de experiencias educativas generadas al calor de los procesos emancipatorios en el continente. Se entiende que cada trabajo que recupere las tradiciones, las miradas y saberes respecto del conocimiento pedagógico y la experiencia acumulada desde la praxis educativa en el contexto de proyectos políticos enmancipatorios en nuestra América, es un aporte relevante que resta aún profundizar. Hay un campo de conocimientos, saberes, experiencias respecto de la educación en el continente que seguir rescatando y visibilizando desde el presente, entendiendo que dichos conocimientos y experiencias dieron lugar a una corriente de pensamiento y acción educativa situada en nuestra América, nacida desde la genuinidad de estos territorios, desde ese humus gestado desde la revolución haitiana, las luchas indígenas, las luchas por las primeras independencias y las de los años ’60 y ’70, todas ellas luchas incansables de los pueblos en un continente que no ha dejado de resistir al colonialismo por más de 500 años y que ha gestado una corriente pedagógica al calor de estas resistencias. Así mismo se recuperan los procesos contemporáneos a los que y en los que la corriente de educación popular está recreando y recreándose.
ICT AS ONE OF THE TEACHING METHODS AT PRIMARY SCHOOL FROM A TEACHER’S POINT OF VIEW
Authors: Skutil Martin
Published: July 2021

ICT is one of the driving elements of the current primary education. They often replace commonly used teaching methods, however, in many cases, they are also rejected as an element of eliminating the human factor in education. Based on a qualitative survey, the paper presents an interactive whiteboard as a teaching element from the perspective of primary education teachers. The main goal of the research is to point out the teachers' inner motives to use modern technologies in education and identify the broader context of a teachers' preparation with regard to the use of IT in school practice. The research is conducted using semi-structured interviews; the method of constant comparison was used for the qualitative data analysis. The most important findings show that teachers perceive information technology, especially as activating and motivating factor in education. Another important feature is the possibility of immediate and quick scan of the results. For most respondents, it is a replacement for traditional teaching resources, while they don´t forget to mention the importance of printed materials.
Key words: ICT in education, interview with teachers, primary education, teaching methods.
DEVELOPING SPATIAL ABILITY USING 3D MODELING IN LOWER SECONDARY SCHOOL
Authors: Šafhalter Andrej , Glodež Srečko , Aberšek Boris , Bakračevič Vukman Karin
Published: July 2021

In recent years 3D modeling has been increasingly utilized during product design in lower secondary schools as well. Its greatest advantage over classical technical drawing and 2D drawing software lies in the fact students are able to observe the object they are designing from all the viewpoints of a virtual three-dimensional space. Since thinking and visualization in the process of object design also appear in three dimensions, the mental manipulation and guesswork required from students in order to add another dimension to an object pictured on a level plane are no longer necessary.
Additionally, 3D modeling has a range of contributions to the cognitive development of children, which was also the subject of this research. The central question raised was whether students are able to improve their spatial ability by using modeling tools. The research included 196 students aged between 11– 15 years, of which 95 were placed in the experimental group and 101 in the control group. Spatial ability was measured using pre-test and post-test.
Key words: 3D modeling, cognitive development, spatial ability, visualization.
THE CHALLENGES OF COMPLETE INFORMATIZATION OF EDUCATION
Authors: Šverc Magdalena , Pesek Igor , Flogie Andrej
Published: July 2021

Since the methods of teaching and learning are currently changing, Slovenian society is challenged to respond. Ministries responsible for the development of the educational system encourage informatization of education by launching strategically oriented tenders. This research presents three such projects, which together propose guidelines on how to further develop the Slovenian educational system with an emphasis on the introduction of information and communication technologies into everyday life in Slovenian schools at all levels (teaching, learning, management, etc.). There are three main areas that are covered: (1) technical assistance and support, (2) development and deployment of e-learning materials and e-textbooks and (3) teacher training. Using these approaches it would be possible to achieve an increase in digital competences and a change in our pedagogical paradigm.
Results show a better motivation, communication and improved teamwork among students. This is a consequence of changes in the way of thinking and teaching by both teachers and other school participants, especially the headmasters who put the student in the centre of activities.
The whole process of school informatization depends on a coherent development of various fields. The focus is on a change of pedagogical paradigm and the consequential teacher and managerial staff training.
Key words: e-competent school, e-competent teacher, e-textbooks, innovative 1:1 pedagogy.
CRITICAL THINKING IN EDUCATION: WHY TO AVOID LOGICAL FALLACIES?
Authors: Bregant Janez
Published: July 2021

The study argues for the claim that a correct argumentation, i.e. a non-fallacious or good reasoning, should be the essential part of the education process, which is not always the case. The bad argumentation makes human standards and interpersonal relationships worse, and leads to the growth of social conflicts and an instable society. If the legislature, executive and judiciary branches of power did not listen to good arguments, our lives would not be as good as they are since the state might pass bad, dangerous and unjust laws. A person trained in critical thinking starting in their youth would be able to tell a difference between good and bad arguments and recognize the fact that accepting the former and dropping the latter is the only way to avoid the above mentioned negative characteristics of a society. By teaching pupils how to employ the prescribed standards of a correct argumentation using everyday examples helps them to avoid adopting certain views on the ground of their popularity, affections produced in observers, their popularity etc., which are classic examples of logical fallacies. An early training in critical thinking could make obvious the fact that, a democracy consisting among other things also in a social, racial and gender equality, after all, does not mean that sometimes left arguments win and sometimes the right ones, and that there is no difference between them in the long run. Key words: argument, critical thinking, deduction, education, induction, logical fallacy, validity.
E-LEARNING MATERIALS FOR SOCIAL SCIENCE STUDENTS
Authors: Krašna Marjan , Bratina Tomaž
Published: July 2021

Today's student population is rightfully categorized as digital natives. From the beginning of their education, they used ICT. The technological gadgets, internet, and social networks are like a glove to them. Such generation of students require more than just textbooks. In the 2013 University of Maribor establish a task force for e-learning materials development. The goal was to identify the optimal technological, didactical and financial approach to the long process of e-learning materials development. Members of the task force have many workshops presenting different views, acquired experiences from their previous projects, technological constraints, prediction, etc. During these workshops it was decided it would be the best to prepare different types of e-learning materials and test them by the students. From their feedbacks we could set the guidelines for large scale production. At the Faculty of Arts, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics and Faculty of Education students needs to acquire also the digital competences to become successful teachers. For special didactics study programs different types of e-learning materials were produced with different technological approach. The concept was to upgrade the previous deliverables (PowerPoint slides) and narrate them. Narrated slides would enable students to refresh their lectures and should be used as blended e-learning materials. Narrations were prepared in different format: textual narration, voice narration and video narration. But later it was decided that these types are not enough and a mix of narratives (integrated multimedia learning materials) could be used on individual slides depending on the content of the slide.
Students first receive the lecture in the classroom and in the same week they need to study associated e-learning materials and write their review of corresponding e-learning materials. In their review students were required to log the required time for studying the e-learning materials; benefits and drawbacks; potential improvement of e-learning materials; and open text of impression of using e-learning materials. Effectiveness and outcomes were tested with the electronic quizzes. Students were highly motivated with these new types of learning materials and provide us valuable feedback. Most efficient were text narrated learning materials, but the favourite was integrated multimedia learning materials. Video and audio narrations take them more time to study since they were constrained with the speed of speech of the recorded lecturer.
Key words: design, distance education, e-learning, learning materials, verification and validation.
La educación del siglo XXI en tiempos de pandemia
Authors: Linne Joaquin
Published: July 2021

Este artículo indaga en las prácticas en escuelas secundarias durante la pandemia de COVID. Para esto, se realizó una encuesta (n: 623) y entrevistas  a 40 estudiantes y docentes de Buenos Aires. Entre los resultados, se evidencian las tensiones producidas, desde las dificultades de equipamiento y conectividad en escuelas con mayor población de sectores populares, hasta la ansiedad y depresión en algunos estudiantes y el stress y burn out en gran parte de docentes, así como en padres y madres. Centros de estudiantes , cooperadoras y docentes han tratado de paliar el escaso presupuesto y la falta de recursos.  Más allá de la incertidumbre, los estudiantes valoran el esfuerzo docente y extrañan asistir a la escuela como espacio de encuentro, debate y sociabilidad. También demandan una actualización de contenidos y mayor inclusión de informática útil. Entre las conclusiones, se sostiene que la escuela articula coordenadas fundamentales en torno a la construcción ciudadana.
Online Learning PBL Model with the STS Approach to Improve High School Students’ Critical Thinking Ability
Authors: S. Gita Lorencia , Jatmiko Budi
Published: July 2021

The research aims to describe the effectiveness of online learning PBL ( Problem Based Learning)model with STS (Science Technology Society) approach to improve students’ critical thinking ability. Research is Pre experimental with pre-test and post-test design conducted at Labschool UNESA High School in the academic year 2020/2021. The research sample consisted of 56 students of eleventh grade Natural Science. Collecting data is done through pre-test, applying the model PBL with the STS approach through the Google meet, and the last is post-test. Analysis data using paired t-test, analysis of n-gain, and independent t-test. According to analysis data, students' critical thinking ability scores are suffering an increase that is significant at ? = 5% with an average n-gain in the medium category and consistent in both classes. The conclusion is that the online learning PBL model with the STS approach effectively improves the critical thinking ability of high school students.
SISTEM KENDALI LEVITASI MAGNETIK REPULSIF MENGGUNAKAN METODE PROPORTIONAL-INTEGRAL-DERIVATIVE (PID)
Authors: Sutoko Sutoko
Published: July 2021

Sifat dasar kemagnetan membuat teknik levitasi menjadi dimungkinkan, namun terdapat perbedaan mendasar jika dibandingkan dengan sifat kelistrikan. Pada interaksi antar muatan listrik, diketahui bahwa muatan yang sama akan saling menolak, sementara muatan yang berlawanan akan saling menarik. Karena adanya muatan listrik bersih, maka levitasi elektris bisa dimungkinkan. Pada interaksi magnetis dimungkinkan melakukan levitasi dengan lebih mudah melalui modifikasi medan magnet. Modifikasi ini bisa dilakukan melalui sistem kendali dan perangkat elektromagnet, seperti induktor. Tanpa sistem kendali, levitasi magnetis hanya bisa dilakukan menggunakan bahan diamagnetis. Saat ini bahan diamagnetis yang memiliki efek paling besar adalah superkonduktor. Selain mahal, temperatur superkonduktor harus dibuat sangat rendah sehingga tidak praktis dipakai dalam teknik levitasi. Pada penelitian ini akan dikembangkan sebuah teknik levitasi magnetis yang bersifat repulsif menggunakan sistem kendali proportional-integral-derivative (PID). Sistem yang dikendalikan berupa kekuatan efektif elektromagnet dalam menstabilkan objek yang ditolak oleh kutub magnet permanen sehingga tetap berada pada posisi dan orientasi yang sama. Hasil yang telah didapatkan adalah proses levitasi magnetik repulsif berhasil secara optimum mempertahankan objek magnet neodimium dengan ketinggian 4 mm selama 5 detik menggunakan nilai Kp sebesar 1 dan nilai Kd sebesar 1,5.
Microhabitat use by recently settled Sparisoma parrotfishes: ontogenetic shifts and association with algal-gardening damselfishes
Authors: Vallès H , Kramer DL
Published: July 2021

Little is known about microhabitat use by Caribbean parrotfishes soon after settlement from the plankton. We monitored the abundance and distribution of recently settled Sparisoma spp. (likely mostly S. viride with some S. aurofrenatum) on 6 × 6 m quadrats (n = 9) on the fringing reef front in Barbados (West Indies) every 15 d for 6 mo. Each quadrat was divided into 1 m2 cells to examine associations between substrate composition and recruit (<1.3 cm standard length, SL) and small juvenile (1.3-3 cm SL) abundance. Recruits and small juveniles tended to use some cells more than others, and their distribution partially overlapped. Both were associated with long turf algae on dead coral. However, small juveniles were also associated with crustose coralline algae and substrate elevation, suggesting a partial ontogenetic change in microhabitat use. Microhabitat associations were similar to those of co-occurring algal-gardening longfin damselfish Stegastes diencaeus and threespot damselfish S. planifrons. Whereas Sparisoma recruits overlapped with longfins and to a lesser extent with threespots, small juveniles overlapped only with threespots. Some of the microhabitat associations with recruits and small juveniles at the cell scale were also found across quadrats. We suggest that the reef front is an important habitat for recently settled Sparisoma in Barbados, where they rely on being cryptic and solitary within turf algae gardens defended by damselfishes to minimize predation. After some growth, they perform a microhabitat shift, perhaps due to increased damselfish aggression. Thus, the early post-settlement dynamics of Caribbean Sparisoma might be strongly influenced by substrate modification by algal-gardening damselfishes.
Historic dispersal barriers determine genetic structure and connectivity in a supratidal sandy-beach brooder
Authors: Bezuidenhout K , Nel R , Schoeman DS , Hauser L
Published: July 2021

The supralittoral zones of sandy beaches are particularly vulnerable to coastal development and other activities that cause localised habitat destruction. Supratidal species, such as peracarid crustaceans, which lack a pelagic larval phase and tend to avoid direct contact with the swash, are therefore expected to be distributed as isolated populations, with implications for their long-term survival. Genetic population structure of one such species, the pill bug Tylos capensis, was investigated based on mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) haplotype sequences, to assess demographic history and regional population connectivity in the presence of potential dispersal barriers (an estuary, coastal cliffs) along the Indian Ocean coast of South Africa. Here, pill bugs demonstrated strong and significant genetic structure at the regional scale, with 3 distinct clades across the species’ geographic distribution. At a localised spatial scale, coastal cliffs intersecting the high shore appeared to be a strong barrier to gene flow between adjacent populations, while a permanently open estuary did not limit gene flow. Estimates of historic gene flow and patterns of COI differentiation coincided with greater habitat continuity during the Pleistocene glaciations at sea levels between -75 and -120 m, when the African south coast was probably dominated by sandy beaches. While gene flow among low-dispersing pill bug populations is unlikely to benefit from a network of closely spaced coastal protected areas, the isolated nature of this species, coupled with the cryptic diversity inherent in this taxon, emphasizes the need for their protection. The importance of protecting the intact littoral active zone of beaches is highlighted.
Miotic action of tramadol is determined by CYP2D6 genotype
Authors: Slanař O , Nobilis M , Květina J , Mikoviny R , Zima T , Idle JR , Perlík F
Published: July 2021

Polymorphic CYP2D6 is the enzyme that activates the opioid analgesic tramadol by O-demethylation to its active metabolite O-demethyltramadol (M1). Our objective was to determine the opioid effects measured by pupillary response to tramadol of CYP2D6 genotyped volunteers in relation to the disposition of tramadol and M1 in plasma. Tramadol displayed phenotypic pharmacokinetics and it was possible to identify poor metabolizers (PM) with >99% confidence from the metabolic ratio (MR) in a single blood sample taken between 2.5 and 24 h post-dose. Homozygous extensive metabolizers (EM) differed from PM subjects by an almost threefold greater (P=0.0014) maximal pupillary constriction (Emax). Significant correlations between the AUC and Cmax values of M1 versus pupillary constriction were found. The corresponding correlations of pharmacokinetic parameters for tramadol itself were weaker and negative. The strongest correlations were for the single-point metabolic ratios at all sampling intervals versus the effects, with rs ranging from 0.85 to 0.89 (p<0.01). It is concluded that the concept of dual opioid/non-opioid action of the drug, though considerably stronger in EMs, is valid for both EM and PM subjects. This is the theoretical basis for the frequent use and satisfactory efficacy of tramadol in clinical practice when given to genetically non-selected population.
Differences in activities of antioxidant superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and prooxidant xanthine oxidoreductase/xanthine oxidase in the normal corneal epithelium of various mammals
Authors: Kovačeva J , Pláteník J , Vejražka M , Štípek S , Ardan T , Čejka Č , Midelfart A , Čejková J
Published: July 2021

Under normal conditions, antioxidants at the corneal surface are balanced with the production of reactive oxygen species without any toxic effects. Danger from oxidative stress appears when natural antioxidants are overwhelmed leading to antioxidant/prooxidant imbalance. The aim of the present study was to examine the activities of enzymes contributing to the antioxidant/prooxidant balance in normal corneal epithelium of various mammals. The enzyme activities of antioxidant superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, as well as prooxidant xanthine oxidoreductase/xanthine oxidase were examined using biochemical methods. Results show that superoxide dismutase activity is high in rabbits and guinea pigs, whereas in pigs the activity is low and in cows it is nearly absent. In contrast, glutathione peroxidase activity is high in cows, pigs and rabbits, whereas in guinea pigs the activity is low. As far as prooxidant enzymes are concerned, elevated xanthine oxidoreductase/xanthine oxidase activities were found in rabbits, lower activities in guinea pigs, very low activity in cows and no activity in pigs. In conclusion, the above results demonstrate inter-species variations in activities of enzymes participating in antioxidant/prooxidant balance in the corneal epithelium. It is suggested that the levels of antioxidant and prooxidant enzymes studied in the corneal epithelium might be associated with the diurnal or nocturnal activity of animals. UV rays decompose hydrogen peroxide to damaging hydroxyl radicals and perhaps for this reason large animals with diurnal activity (cow, pig) require more effective peroxide removal (high glutathione peroxidase activity) together with the suppression of peroxide production (low superoxide dismutase activity, low xanthine oxidoreductase activity).
Diagnostic significance of urinary thiodiglycolic acid as a possible tool for studying the role of vitamins B12 and folates in the metabolism of thiolic substances
Authors: Navrátil T , Petr M , Šenholdová Z , Přistoupilová K , Přistoupil TI , Heyrovský M , Pelclová D , Kohlíková E
Published: July 2021

We have found that the determination of thiodiglycolic acid (TDGA) in urine may help to characterize metabolic imbalance of substances participating in methionine synthesis, which leads to hyperhomocystinuria. From the metabolic scheme, based on a proper combination of known facts, we attempted to theoretically explain and to demonstrate the possibilities of TDGA formation via different ways of homocysteine transformation. This scheme was used in evaluating the results obtained by testing urine of a woman suffering from impaired function of methionine synthase reductase (CblE type of homocystinuria). The amount of TDGA excreted in her morning urine was very sensitive to the changes in her treatment based upon a combination of N5-formyl tetrahydrofolate, betaine and vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 given in the evening either alone or together with betaine increased the TDGA excretion in the morning urine up to ten times. On the other hand, in the absence of vitamin B12, betaine in combination with N5-formyl tetrahydrofolate hindered the appearance of TDGA in the morning urine. Generally, the determination of TDGA in urine of an appropriately pretreated patient may indicate the degree of success of the treatment.
Robin Criterion on Divisibility
Authors: Vega Frank
Published: July 2021

Robin criterion states that the Riemann Hypothesis is true if and only if the inequality $\sigma(n) < e^{\gamma } \times n \times \log \log n$ holds for all $n > 5040$, where $\sigma(n)$ is the sum-of-divisors function and $\gamma \approx 0.57721$ is the Euler-Mascheroni constant. This is known as the Robin inequality. We show that the Robin inequality is true for all $n > 5040$ which are not divisible by any prime number between $2$ and $953$. In addition, from the possible smallest counterexample $n > 5040$ of the Robin inequality, we prove that necessarily $(\log n)^{\beta} < 1.26 \times \log(N_{m})$, where $N_{m} = \prod_{i = 1}^{m} q_{i}$ is the primorial number of order $m$ and $\beta = \prod_{i = 1}^{m} \frac{q_{i}^{a_{i} + 1}}{q_{i}^{a_{i} + 1} - 1}$ when $n$ is an Hardy-Ramanujan integer of the form $\prod_{i=1}^{m} q_{i}^{a_{i}}$.
Programmable System of Cas13-Mediated RNA Modification and Its Biological and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Tang Tian , Han Yingli , Wang Yuran , Huang He , Qian Pengxu
Published: July 2021

Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-Cas13 has drawn broad interest to control gene expression and cell fate at the RNA level in general. Apart from RNA interference mediated by its endonuclease activity, the nuclease-deactivated form of Cas13 further provides a versatile RNA-guided RNA-targeting platform for manipulating kinds of RNA modifications post-transcriptionally. Chemical modifications modulate various aspects of RNA fate, including translation efficiency, alternative splicing, RNA–protein affinity, RNA–RNA interaction, RNA stability and RNA translocation, which ultimately orchestrate cellular biologic activities. This review summarizes the history of the CRISPR-Cas13 system, fundamental components of RNA modifications and the related physiological and pathological functions. We focus on the development of epi-transcriptional editing toolkits based on catalytically inactive Cas13, including RNA Editing for Programmable A to I Replacement (REPAIR) and xABE (adenosine base editor) for adenosine deamination, RNA Editing for Specific C-to-U Exchange (RESCUE) and xCBE (cytidine base editor) for cytidine deamination and dm6ACRISPR, as well as the targeted RNA methylation (TRM) and photoactivatable RNA m6A editing system using CRISPR-dCas13 (PAMEC) for m6A editing. We further highlight the emerging applications of these useful toolkits in cell biology, disease and imaging. Finally, we discuss the potential limitations, such as off-target editing, low editing efficiency and limitation for AAV delivery, and provide possible optimization strategies.
Downregulated lncRNA GAS5 and Upregulated miR-21 Lead to Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition and Lung Metastasis of Osteosarcomas
Authors: Wang Ying , Ren Xue , Yuan Ye , Yuan Bao-Shan
Published: July 2021

Lung is the primary site of osteosarcoma metastasis, but the underlying genetic or epigenetic factors determining lung metastasis of osteosarcoma are unknown. In this study, we report the status of growth arrest specific 5 (GAS5) in lung metastatic osteosarcomas. GAS5 was generally downregulated in osteosarcoma patients (n = 24) compared to healthy controls (n = 10) and even more so in patients with lung metastatic disease(n = 11) compared to the patients without metastasis (n = 13). We also report a role of miR-21 in GAS5-mediated effects. Downregulation of GAS5 in hFOB 1.19 and U2OS osteosarcoma cells enhanced their migration and invasion, along with an upregulated epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), as evidenced by downregulated E-cadherin and upregulated vimentin, ZEB1, and ZEB2. Downregulation of GAS5 also resulted in a significantly increased expression of miR-21. Moreover, downregulation of such elevated miR-21 was found to reverse the effects of GAS5 silencing. miR-21 was also found to be elevated in osteosarcoma patients with its levels particularly high in patients with lung metastasis. Our observations reveal a possible role of GAS5 and miR-21 in lung metastasis of osteosarcoma, presenting them as novel targets for therapy.
Large-Scale Field Test Study on Failure Mechanism of Non-Cohesive Landslide Dam by Overtopping
Authors: Li Liang , Yang Xingguo , Zhou Jiawen , Zhang Jieyuan , Fan Gang
Published: July 2021

In recent years, landslide lake disasters occur frequently in southwest mountainous areas of China. Considering the influence of dam size and discharge channel location, three large-scale field tests were carried out in a natural river to study the failure process and mechanism of non-cohesive soil landslide dam, and the process and mechanism of non-cohesive landslide dam breach were analyzed. The results show that the dam size and discharge channel location have a significant influence on the breach mechanism of the landslide dam. The dam failure process can be divided into three stages: the initiation stage, the development stage and the failure stage. When the discharge channel is located close to the bank, the width of the breach is smaller, and the volume of the residual dam body is larger. The more stable the dam body is, the longer the breach process time is, and the smaller the peak discharge is. This study can provide a scientific reference for the emergency disposal and risk assessment of landslide dam.
Age Influences the Prognosis of Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer Patients
Authors: Kong Na , Xu Qiqi , Zhang Ziqin , Cui Aimin , Tan Shen , Bai Nan
Published: July 2021

Background

The staging system for patients with anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) was updated in the 8th edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer Staging Manual. A cut-off age of 55 years was stipulated as a prognostic factor for differentiated thyroid cancer; however, age was not considered for ATC patients. To this end, this study investigated the relationship between age at diagnosis and prognosis of ATC patients.

Methods

The clinical information on ATC patients was acquired from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program public database. Youden’s index and X-tile analyses were used to calculate the high-point age at diagnosis associated with prognosis. Cox proportional hazards models, Kaplan-Meier curves, and 1000-person-year were then used for verifying the accuracy of the high-point age.

Results

After inclusion/exclusion criteria was applied, 586 patients were included in this study. The high-point age was determined to be 70 years by both the Youden’s index and X-tile plot methods. The hazard ratio was 1.662 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.321-2.092), indicating that there was an increased risk of poor prognosis for patients > 70 years of age. The cancer-specific mortality rates per 1000-person-years for patients ≤ and > 70 years-old were 949.980 (95% CI: 827.323-1090.822) and 1546.667 (95% CI: 1333.114-1794.428), respectively. P-values were < 0.001 for the results shown above.

Conclusion

Our study found that age influenced the prognosis of ATC patients. Furthermore, we determined that the high-point age at diagnosis was 70 years and that > 70 years of age was associated with a poor prognosis. These results provide a useful addition to the staging manual and can improve the diagnosis, treatment strategies and prognosis of ATC patients.
Floating Marine Litter in Eastern Mediterranean From Macro to Microplastics: The Lebanese Coastal Area as a Case Study
Authors: Jemaa Sharif , Mahfouz Celine , Kazour Maria , Lteif Myriam , Hassoun Abed El Rahman , Ghsoub Myriam , Amara Rachid , Khalaf Gaby , Fakhri Milad
Published: July 2021

Despite emerging and increasing concerns related to marine micro and macroplastics, no systematic surveys have been undertaken yet in the Lebanese marine area. To understand the spatio-temporal variation of plastic litter (macro and microplastics) in the Lebanese marine environment and to determine the sources of pollution, this study investigated the characteristics of plastic pollution in sea surface waters during wet and dry seasons in 22 sites of Beirut and Tyre regions. A total of 23,023 items were identified and assessed according to the shape, color, and concentration; moreover, the risk of microplastics (MPs) contamination was explored based on a risk assessment model. The obtained results demonstrated that the average macroplastics concentration was 0.45 ± 0.6 items/m3. The average microplastics concentration was found to be 20.1 ± 21.8 and 3.78 ± 5.2 items/m3 in spring and fall respectively. During fall, MPs fragments were dominant in Beirut (97%) and Tyre (91%), and no pellets were observed. During spring, filaments were most encountered in Beirut (76.5%). The most dominant marine litter color was blue followed by black and white. The Pollution Load Index (PLI) values showed a moderate contamination of the Lebanese coast with MPs (PLI: 5.79 ± 3.93) except for several sites in Beirut that showed high values of PLI, highlighting the local influence of cities and rivers on MPs concentration. This study serves as an important baseline for understanding the characteristics of the seasonal variation of MPs along the Lebanese marine environment; it will help stakeholders and countries to take proactive and reactive actions to face plastic litter pollution in the Lebanese coastal area.
The Main Research Characteristics of the Development of the Concept of the Circular Economy Concept: A Global Analysis and the Future Agenda
Authors: Meseguer-Sánchez Víctor , Gálvez-Sánchez Francisco Jesús , Molina-Moreno Valentin , Wandosell-Fernández-de-Bobadilla Gonzalo
Published: July 2021

In recent years, the concept of the Circular Economy has acquired greater traction, both in the research community and in wider society, as an instrument that provides innumerable methodologies with which to face the environmental, social, and environmental challenges caused by the linear production model. This study focuses on analyzing the degree of advancement of the Circular Economy in the scientific field through a bibliometric analysis (or scientometrics) of 5,007 research articles available in Scopus database and published during the period 2005–2007. The main research characteristics are presented, and the Paris Climate Conference (COP21), held on December 12, 2015, is highlighted as a key driver of this particular line of research. The analysis revealed the main authors, journals, subject area, countries and current and future lines of research, finding that the Circular Economy is a paradigm with environmental, economic and social implications, both for the productive system and for consumers.
Management Actions Promote Human-Wildlife Coexistence in Highly Anthropized Landscapes: The Case of an Endangered Avian Scavenger
Authors: Zuberogoitia Iñigo , Morant Jon , González-Oreja José Antonio , Martínez José Enrique , Larrinoa Mikel , Ruiz Julio , Aginako Igor , Cinos Cristina , Díaz Eneko , Martínez Fran , Galarza Aitor , Pérez de Ana Juan Manuel , Vacas Gorka , Lardizabal Beñat , Iriarte Iñigo , Zabala Jabi
Published: July 2021

Anthropized landscapes are characterized by various human activities related to resource extraction, recreational activities, and urbanization, among others. Conservation of species living in such landscapes is challenging due to the lack of compatibility between wildlife and human needs, which can create win-lose scenarios for target species. Therefore, adequate management practices are necessary to reduce conflicts and promote coexistence between wildlife and human beings. Here, we test the effectiveness of management measures on the productivity of an Egyptian vulture population living in an anthropized region of Northern Spain by using long-term monitoring data (2000–2020). During the first decade, we demonstrated that disturbance events negatively affected the species reproduction. Therefore, in 2010 we started a management plan in which we first established a basis for the species protection, and second we developed management actions to avoid or reduce the impact of potential disturbance events on the Egyptian vulture’ breeding. We observed that almost half of the disturbances detected after the management was related to resource extraction activities such as forestry (40.6%). Management measures effectively increased productivity (84 vs 137, chicks fledged successfully before and after, respectively) and the breeding success of the pairs in which the disturbances were detected and stopped (66.7%) was much higher than those non-managed and non-stopped in time (17.4%). Moreover, we estimated that 44 nestlings (32.1%) would have died without management actions during the second decade. Overall, our work demonstrated that collaborative networks can design and implement effective management measures for endangered territorial species, taking into account all agents involved (policymakers, rangers, stakeholders, general public, and researchers) in the conservation area. Thereby, it alleviates conflicts in human-dominated ecosystems and generates a balanced scenario that favors long-term sustainable human-wildlife coexistence.