bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Spatial and Temporal Assessment of Vegetation Greening and Precipitation Changes for Monitoring Vegetation Dynamics in Climate Zones over Africa
Authors: Nzabarinda Vincent , Bao Anming , Xu Wenqiang , Uwamahoro Solange , Udahogora Madeleine , Umwali Edovia Dufatanye , Nyirarwasa Anathalie , Umuhoza Jeanine
Published: March 2021

Vegetation is vital, and its greening depends on access to water. Thus, precipitation has a considerable influence on the health and condition of vegetation and its amount and timing depend on the climatic zone. Therefore, it is extremely important to monitor the state of vegetation according to the movements of precipitation in climatic zones. Although a lot of research has been conducted, most of it has not paid much attention to climatic zones in the study of plant health and precipitation. Thus, this paper aims to study the plant health in five African climatic zones. The linear regression model, the persistence index (PI), and the Pearson correlation coefficients were applied for the third generation Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI3g), with Climate Hazard Group infrared precipitation and Climate Change Initiative Land Cover for 34 years (1982 to 2015). This involves identifying plants in danger of extinction or in dramatic decline and the relationship between vegetation and rainfall by climate zone. The forest type classified as tree cover, broadleaved, deciduous, closed to open (>15%) has been degraded to 74% of its initial total area. The results also revealed that, during the study period, the vegetation of the tropical, polar, and warm temperate zones showed a higher rate of strong improvement. Although arid and boreal zones show a low rate of strong improvement, they are those that experience a low percentage of strong degradation. The continental vegetation is drastically decreasing, especially forests, and in areas with low vegetation, compared to more vegetated areas, there is more emphasis on the conservation of existing plants. The variability in precipitation is excessively hard to tolerate for more types of vegetation.
Tight Junctions as a Key for Pathogens Invasion in Intestinal Epithelial Cells
Authors: Paradis Tracy , Bègue Hervé , Basmaciyan Louise , Dalle Frédéric , Bon Fabienne
Published: March 2021

Tight junctions play a major role in maintaining the integrity and impermeability of the intestinal barrier. As such, they act as an ideal target for pathogens to promote their translocation through the intestinal mucosa and invade their host. Different strategies are used by pathogens, aimed at directly destabilizing the junctional network or modulating the different signaling pathways involved in the modulation of these junctions. After a brief presentation of the organization and modulation of tight junctions, we provide the state of the art of the molecular mechanisms leading to permeability breakdown of the gut barrier as a consequence of tight junctions’ attack by pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
Activation of KCNQ4 as a Therapeutic Strategy to Treat Hearing Loss
Authors: Rim John Hoon , Choi Jae Young , Jung Jinsei , Gee Heon Yung
Published: March 2021

Potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily q member 4 (KCNQ4) is a voltage-gated potassium channel that plays essential roles in maintaining ion homeostasis and regulating hair cell membrane potential. Reduction of the activity of the KCNQ4 channel owing to genetic mutations is responsible for nonsyndromic hearing loss, a typically late-onset, initially high-frequency loss progressing over time. In addition, variants of KCNQ4 have also been associated with noise-induced hearing loss and age-related hearing loss. Therefore, the discovery of small compounds activating or potentiating KCNQ4 is an important strategy for the curative treatment of hearing loss. In this review, we updated the current concept of the physiological role of KCNQ4 in the inner ear and the pathologic mechanism underlying the role of KCNQ4 variants with regard to hearing loss. Finally, we focused on currently developed KCNQ4 activators and their pros and cons, paving the way for the future development of specific KCNQ4 activators as a remedy for hearing loss.
Application of Machine Learning in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Settings Using MIMIC Dataset: Systematic Review
Authors: Syed Mahanazuddin , Syed Shorabuddin , Sexton Kevin , Syeda Hafsa Bareen , Garza Maryam , Zozus Meredith , Syed Farhanuddin , Begum Salma , Syed Abdullah Usama , Sanford Joseph , Prior Fred
Published: March 2021

Modern Intensive Care Units (ICUs) provide continuous monitoring of critically ill patients susceptible to many complications affecting morbidity and mortality. ICU settings require a high staff-to-patient ratio and generates a sheer volume of data. For clinicians, the real-time interpretation of data and decision-making is a challenging task. Machine Learning (ML) techniques in ICUs are making headway in the early detection of high-risk events due to increased processing power and freely available datasets such as the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC). We conducted a systematic literature review to evaluate the effectiveness of applying ML in the ICU settings using the MIMIC dataset. A total of 322 articles were reviewed and a quantitative descriptive analysis was performed on 61 qualified articles that applied ML techniques in ICU settings using MIMIC data. We assembled the qualified articles to provide insights into the areas of application, clinical variables used, and treatment outcomes that can pave the way for further adoption of this promising technology and possible use in routine clinical decision-making. The lessons learned from our review can provide guidance to researchers on application of ML techniques to increase their rate of adoption in healthcare.
Impact of Integrated Genetic Information on Diagnosis and Prognostication for Myeloproliferative Neoplasms in the Next-Generation Sequencing Era
Authors: Lee Jong-Mi , Lee Howon , Eom Ki-Seong , Lee Sung-Eun , Kim Myungshin , Kim Yonggoo
Published: March 2021

Since next-generation sequencing has been widely used in clinical laboratories, the diagnosis and risk stratification of hematologic malignancies are greatly dependent on genetic aberrations. In this study, we analyzed the genomic landscapes of 200 patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) and evaluated the impact of the genomic landscape on diagnosis and risk stratification. Mutations in JAK2, CALR and MPL were detected in 76.4% of MPNs. The proportion of patients with clonal genetic markers increased up to 86.4% when all detectable genetic aberrations were included. Significant co-occurring genetic aberrations potentially associated with phenotype and/or disease progression, including those in JAK2/SF3B1 and TP53/del(13q), del(5q), −7/del(7q) and complex karyotypes, were detected. We also identified genetic aberrations associated with patient outcomes: TP53 and −7/del(7q) were associated with an inferior chance of survival, RUNX1, TP53 and IDH1/2 were associated with leukemic transformation and SF3B1, IDH1/2, ASXL1 and del(20q) were associated with fibrotic progression. We compared risk stratification systems and found that mutation-enhanced prognostic scoring systems could identify lower risk polycythemia vera, essential thrombocythemia and higher risk primary myelofibrosis. Furthermore, the new risk stratification systems showed a better predictive capacity for patient outcome. These results collectively indicate that integrated genetic information can enhance diagnosis and prognostication in patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms.
The Evolving Landscape of the Molecular Epidemiology of Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
Authors: Lettieri Sara , Bortolotto Chandra , Agustoni Francesco , Lococo Filippo , Lancia Andrea , Comoli Patrizia , Corsico Angelo G. , Stella Giulia M.
Published: March 2021

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare and aggressive malignancy that most commonly affects the pleural lining of the lungs. It has a strong association with exposure to biopersistent fibers, mainly asbestos (80% of cases) and—in specific geographic regions—erionite, zeolites, ophiolites, and fluoro-edenite. Individuals with a chronic exposure to asbestos generally have a long latency with no or few symptoms. Then, when patients do become symptomatic, they present with advanced disease and a worse overall survival (about 13/15 months). The fibers from industrial production not only pose a substantial risk to workers, but also to their relatives and to the surrounding community. Modern targeted therapies that have shown benefit in other human tumors have thus far failed in MPM. Overall, MPM has been listed as orphan disease by the European Union. However, molecular high-throughput profiling is currently unveiling novel biomarkers and actionable targets. We here discuss the natural evolution, mainly focusing on the novel concept of molecular epidemiology. The application of innovative endpoints, quantification of genetic damages, and definition of genetic susceptibility are reviewed, with the ultimate goal to point out new tools for screening of exposed subject and for designing more efficient diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Unmet Rehabilitation Needs after Traumatic Brain Injury across Europe: Results from the CENTER-TBI Study
Authors: Andelic Nada , Røe Cecilie , Tenovuo Olli , Azouvi Philippe , Dawes Helen , Majdan Marek , Ranta Jukka , Howe Emilie I. , Wiegers Eveline J.A. , Tverdal Cathrine , Borgen Ida , Forslund Marit V. , Kleffelgaard Ingerid , Dahl Hilde M. , Jacob Louis , Cogné Mélanie , Lu Juan , von Steinbuechel Nicole , Zeldovich Marina
Published: March 2021

This study aims to assess rehabilitation needs and provision of rehabilitation services for individuals with moderate-to-severe disability and investigate factors influencing the probability of receiving rehabilitation within six months after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Overall, the analyses included 1206 individuals enrolled in the CENTER-TBI study with severe-to-moderate disability. Impairments in five outcome domains (daily life activities, physical, cognition, speech/language, and psychological) and the use of respective rehabilitation services (occupational therapy, physiotherapy, cognitive and speech therapies, and psychological counselling) were recorded. Sociodemographic and injury-related factors were used to investigate the probability of receiving rehabilitation. Physiotherapy was the most frequently provided rehabilitation service, followed by speech and occupational therapy. Psychological counselling was the least frequently accessed service. The probability of receiving a rehabilitative intervention increased for individuals with greater brain injury severity (odds ratio (OR) 1.75, CI 95%: 1.27–2.42), physical (OR 1.92, CI 95%: 1.21–3.05) and cognitive problems (OR 4.00, CI 95%: 2.34–6.83) but decreased for individuals reporting psychological problems (OR 0.57, CI 95%: 1.21–3.05). The study results emphasize the need for more extensive prescription of rehabilitation services for individuals with disability. Moreover, targeted rehabilitation programs, which aim to improve outcomes, should specifically involve psychological services to meet the needs of individuals recovering from TBI.
Collection and Handling of Thoracic Small Biopsy and Cytology Specimens for Ancillary Studies: Guidelines from the College of American Pathologists (CAP)
Authors: Roy-Chowdhuri Sinchita
Published: March 2021

With a growing number of clinically relevant biomarkers needed to guide the management of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), pathologists are keenly aware of the need to collect adequate tissue not only for a diagnosis, but also for ancillary studies to provide predictive and prognostic information. Small specimens collected by minimally invasive techniques such as fine needle aspiration and core needle biopsy often fall short in meeting adequacy requirements for lung cancer molecular biomarkers. The College of American Pathologists (CAP) recently published an evidence-based clinical practice guideline, “Collection and Handling of Thoracic Small Biopsy and Cytology Specimens for Ancillary Studies”, to help direct clinicians and pathology laboratory personnel to optimally collect and handle thoracic small specimens for ancillary testing. This review summarizes the published guideline statements and provides a brief overview of the recommendations and how they impact the practice of pathology.
Potential Probiotic Strains of Saccharomyces and Non-Saccharomyces: Functional and Biotechnological Characteristics
Authors: Fernández-Pacheco Pilar , Pintado Cristina , Briones Pérez Ana , Arévalo-Villena María
Published: March 2021

Due to the evident demand for probiotic microorganisms, a growing number of scientific studies have involved the preliminary selection of new strains, but deeper studies for knowing specific functional and biotechnological properties are needed. In the present work, twenty yeasts (Saccharomyces and non-Saccharomyces) with potential probiotic characteristics, selected in previous works, were evaluated. The following assays were realized: adhesion to Caco-2/TC7 cells, prebiotic metabolisms, assimilation of cholesterol, enzymatic and antioxidant activity, and antifungal resistance. In addition, the effect of ultrasonic treatment was evaluated for attenuating the cultures before their possible incorporation into a food or supplement. In all of the cases, the unique commercial probiotic yeast (S. boulardii CNM I-745) was used as positive control. Results show different capabilities depending on the property studied. In general, no Saccharomyces yeasts were better in the adhesion to Caco cells, prebiotic metabolism, and presented higher variability of enzymatic activities. The ones related to cholesterol assimilation and antioxidant capability did not show a marked trend, and with respect to the attenuation process, the Saccharomyces yeasts were more resistant. For selecting the potential probiotic yeasts with better balance among all characteristics, a principal component analysis (PCA) was carried out. The most promising yeasts for use as health-promoting probiotics are Hanseniaspora osmophila 1056 and 1094, Lachancea thermotolerans 1039, and S. cerevisiae 3 and 146.
Ultimate Load-Carrying Ability of Rib-Stiffened 2024-T3 and 7075-T6 Aluminium Alloy Panels under Axial Compression
Authors: Slota Ján , Kubit Andrzej , Trzepieciński Tomasz , Krasowski Bogdan , Varga Ján
Published: March 2021

Stringer-stiffened panels made of aluminium alloys are often used as structural elements in the aircraft industry. The load-carrying capacity of this type of structure cannot relieve the reduction in strength in the event of local buckling. In this paper, a method of fabrication of rib-stiffened panels made of EN AW-2024-T3 Alclad and EN AW-7075-T6 Alclad has been proposed using single point incremental forming. Panels made of sheets of different thickness and with different values of forming parameters were tested under the axial compression test. A digital image correlation (DIC)-based system was used to find the distribution of strain in the panels. The results of the axial compression tests revealed that the panels had two distinct buckling modes: (i) The panels buckled halfway up the panel height towards the rib, without any appreciable loss of rib stability, and (ii) the rib first lost stability at half its height with associated breakage, and then the panel was deflected in the opposite direction to the position of the rib. Different buckling modes can be associated with the character of transverse and longitudinal springback of panels resulting from local interaction of the rotating tool on the surface of the formed ribs.
Application of Innovative Ropes from Textile Waste as an Anti-Erosion Measure
Authors: Nguyen Giang , Grzybowska-Pietras Joanna , Broda Jan
Published: March 2021

Using materials from recycling is a key part of decreasing present-day waste. It is optimal for recycled material to be used in environmental protection. This paper presents the application of geotextile ropes in erosion protection of a slope of a gravel pit. To protect the slope, thick ropes with a diameter of 120 mm made from wool and a mixture of recycled natural and synthetic fibers were used. After 47 months from installation, soil and rope specimens were taken from the slope parts with inclinations 1:1 and 1:1.8, and their physical and mechanical properties were determined. Direct shear tests were applied to determine the soil shear strength parameters in state at sampling and at Ic = 0 (unconsolidated and consolidated). Based on the obtained soil shear strength parameters, the loads on the ropes were determined, taking into account also unfavorable hydraulic conditions and compared to rope strength. It was shown that even after 47 months from installation, rope tension strength was higher as tension forces were induced in the ropes in every case. At present, whole slopes in protected sections are stabilized, without rills and gullies.
Towards Selection Charts for Epoxy Resin, Unsaturated Polyester Resin and Their Fibre-Fabric Composites with Flame Retardants
Authors: Ramadan Noha , Taha Mohamed , La Rosa Angela Daniela , Elsabbagh Ahmed
Published: March 2021

Epoxy and unsaturated polyester resins are the most used thermosetting polymers. They are commonly used in electronics, construction, marine, automotive and aircraft industries. Moreover, reinforcing both epoxy and unsaturated polyester resins with carbon or glass fibre in a fabric form has enabled them to be used in high-performance applications. However, their organic nature as any other polymeric materials made them highly flammable materials. Enhancing the flame retardancy performance of thermosetting polymers and their composites can be improved by the addition of flame-retardant materials, but this comes at the expense of their mechanical properties. In this regard, a comprehensive review on the recent research articles that studied the flame retardancy of epoxy resin, unsaturated polyester resin and their composites were covered. Flame retardancy performance of different flame retardant/polymer systems was evaluated in terms of Flame Retardancy index (FRI) that was calculated based on the data extracted from the cone calorimeter test. Furthermore, flame retardant selection charts that relate between the flame retardancy level with mechanical properties in the aspects of tensile and flexural strength were presented. This review paper is also dedicated to providing the reader with a brief overview on the combustion mechanism of polymeric materials, their flammability behaviour and the commonly used flammability testing techniques and the mechanism of action of flame retardants.
Disaster Prevention Education along with Weekly Exercise Improves Self-Efficacy in Community-Dwelling Japanese People—A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Katayama Akihiko , Hase Ayako , Miyatake Nobuyuki
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives: Both disaster prevention and health promotion have become public health challenges in Japan. Maintaining physical fitness from the perspective of disaster prevention and maintaining physical fitness from the perspective of health are basically covering similar issues, they are seen as different from one another because of differences in administrative jurisdiction in Japan. In the case of disaster prevention education, physical fitness is not mentioned. In and outside Japan, partial integration of disaster prevention education and health education is required. This study compares and examines the effects of disaster prevention education and traditional exercise education, as well as exercise practice. A randomized controlled trial alongside an evacuation behavior model during the event of a disaster were used in this research. Materials and Methods: A total of 97 community-dwelling participants were randomly allocated to two groups, a disaster prevention education group (Group D) and a traditional exercise education group (Group E). Group D received disaster prevention education with weekly exercise. Group E received traditional exercise education with weekly exercise. After ten weeks of intervention, the total evacuation time of the disaster evacuation model course, physical fitness, self-efficacy (General Self-Efficacy Scale: GSES), and health-related quality of life (QOL) were compared between the two groups. Results: No differences were observed between the two groups regarding the changes in the parameters of total evacuation time, physical fitness, and health-related QOL. However, the changes in GSES scores were significantly higher in Group D (1.4 ± 3.9) than in Group E (−1.1 ± 7.5). Conclusions: Disaster prevention education with weekly exercise significantly increased participants’ self-efficacy compared to traditional exercise education. The combination of disaster prevention education and exercise practice may have a positive effect not only on disaster prevention behavior but also on self-efficacy in health promotion. Disaster prevention education does not directly influence health promotion, but it may be a very effective method for indirectly promoting health.
The Consequence of Excessive Consumption of Cow’s Milk: Protein-Losing Enteropathy with Anasarca in the Course of Iron Deficiency Anemia—Case Reports and a Literature Review
Authors: Graczykowska Karolina , Kaczmarek Joanna , Wilczyńska Dominika , Łoś-Rycharska Ewa , Krogulska Aneta
Published: March 2021

Cow’s milk is a key component of a child’s diet. While the consumption of even trace amounts can result in allergy to its proteins and/or hypolactasia, excessive cow’s milk consumption can result in numerous health complications, including iron deficiency, due to the diet being improperly balanced. Although the incidence of iron deficiency has declined, it remains the most widespread nutritional deficiency globally and the most common cause of anemia. One rare consequence of anemia caused by iron deficiency is protein-losing enteropathy; however, the mechanisms of its development are unclear. The following manuscript, based on a literature review, presents two rare cases of children, a 16-month-old boy and a 2.5-year-old girl, who developed severe microcytic anemia, enteropathy with hypoalbuminemia, and anasarca as a result of excessive cow’s milk consumption. It highlights the possible relationship between excessive consumption of cow’s milk in children and severe iron deficiency anemia with accompanying hypoalbuminemia; it may also result in serious clinical conditions, even in children that do not demonstrate food hypersensitivity.
Is the Microfiltration Process Suitable as a Method of Removing Suspended Solids from Rainwater?
Authors: Fitobór Karolina , Quant Bernard
Published: March 2021

Due to climate change and anthropogenic pressure, freshwater availability is declining in areas where it has not been noticeable so far. As a result, the demands for alternative sources of safe drinking water and effective methods of purification are growing. A solution worth considering is the treatment of rainwater by microfiltration. This study presents the results of selected analyses of rainwater runoff, collected from the roof surface of individual households equipped with the rainwater harvesting system. The method of rainwater management and research location (rural area) influenced the low content of suspended substances (TSS < 0.02 mg/L) and turbidity (< 4 NTU). Microfiltration allowed for the further removal of suspension particles with sizes larger than 0.45 μm and with efficiency greater than 60%. Granulometric analysis indicated that physical properties of suspended particles vary with the season and weather. During spring, particles with an average size of 500 μm predominated, while in autumn particles were much smaller (10 μm). However, Silt Density Index measurements confirmed that even a small amount of suspended solids can contribute to the fouling of membranes (SDI > 5). Therefore, rainwater cannot be purified by microfiltration without an appropriate pretreatment.
A Comparative Approach of Fuzzy Object Based Image Analysis and Machine Learning Techniques Which Are Applied to Crop Residue Cover Mapping by Using Sentinel-2 Satellite and UAV Imagery
Authors: Najafi Payam , Feizizadeh Bakhtiar , Navid Hossein
Published: March 2021

Conservation tillage methods through leaving the crop residue cover (CRC) on the soil surface protect it from water and wind erosions. Hence, the percentage of the CRC on the soil surface is very critical for the evaluation of tillage intensity. The objective of this study was to develop a new methodology based on the semiautomated fuzzy object based image analysis (fuzzy OBIA) and compare its efficiency with two machine learning algorithms which include: support vector machine (SVM) and artificial neural network (ANN) for the evaluation of the previous CRC and tillage intensity. We also considered the spectral images from two remotely sensed platforms of the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and Sentinel-2 satellite, respectively. The results indicated that fuzzy OBIA for multispectral Sentinel-2 image based on Gaussian membership function with overall accuracy and Cohen’s kappa of 0.920 and 0.874, respectively, surpassed machine learning algorithms and represented the useful results for the classification of tillage intensity. The results also indicated that overall accuracy and Cohen’s kappa for the classification of RGB images from the UAV using fuzzy OBIA method were 0.860 and 0.779, respectively. The semiautomated fuzzy OBIA clearly outperformed machine learning approaches in estimating the CRC and the classification of the tillage methods and also it has the potential to substitute or complement field techniques.
On the Analysis of PM/FM Noise Radar Waveforms Considering Modulating Signals with Varied Stochastic Properties
Authors: Pralon Leandro , Beltrao Gabriel , Barreto Alisson , Cosenza Bruno
Published: March 2021

Noise Radar technology is the general term used to describe radar systems that employ realizations of a given stochastic process as transmit waveforms. Originally, carriers modulated in amplitude by a Gaussian random signal, derived from a hardware noise source, were taken into consideration, justifying the adopted nomenclature. With the advances made in hardware as well as the rise of the software defined noise radar concept, waveform design emerges as an important research area related to such systems. The possibility of generating signals with varied stochastic properties increased the potential in achieving systems with enhanced performances. The characterization of random phase and frequency modulated waveforms (more suitable for several applications) has then gained considerable notoriety within the radar community as well. Several optimization algorithms have been proposed in order to conveniently shape both the autocorrelation function of the random samples that comprise the transmit signal, as well as their power spectrum density. Nevertheless, little attention has been driven to properly characterize the stochastic properties of those signals through closed form expressions, jeopardizing the effectiveness of the aforementioned algorithms as well as their reproducibility. Within this context, this paper investigates the performance of several random phase and frequency modulated waveforms, varying the stochastic properties of their modulating signals.
Research on the Use of Mobile Devices and Headphones on Pedestrian Crossings—Pilot Case Study from Slovakia
Authors: Mikusova Miroslava , Wachnicka Joanna , Zukowska Joanna
Published: March 2021

The topic of the use of mobile devices and headphones on pedestrian crossings is much less explored in comparison to the use of the mobile phone while driving. Recent years have seen many discussions on this issue, especially in foreign countries. The Slovak Republic, however, has not been giving it enough attention (and it is not mentioned in the National Road Safety Plan for the Slovak Republic from 2011 to 2020). This paper aims to draw attention to this issue. It presents basic outputs of a pilot study on pedestrian safety, with a focus on the use of mobile devices and headphones at selected non-signalized pedestrian crossings in three Slovak cities. Overall, 9% of pedestrians used headphones or mobile devices at observed pedestrian crossings (4% of them used headphones, 1% used headphones and at same time used their mobile phone, 2% made phone calls and 2% used their mobile phones). While these numbers can be considered relatively low, the study proved that during weekdays every 2 min someone was using the crossing without fully focusing on crossing the road safely. Another main finding was that although the safety risk at pedestrian crossings is increased by factors such as rush hour traffic or reduced visibility, pedestrian behavior related to the use of mobile phones and headphones does not change. A safety assessment was also carried out at the crossings. The results show that pedestrian behavior is not affected by the level of safety of the crossing (e.g., visibility of the crossing for drivers). The results of the presented analysis suggest that action is needed to change that. Due to the lack of information about accidents involving pedestrians using mobile phones and headsets when crossing the road, no relevant statistical data could be analyzed. The dataset collected can be used as a basis for further investigation or comparisons with other countries of the relevant indicators. In future work, we would like to include a pedestrian–driver interaction factor focusing on driver speed behavior in relation to pedestrians (who are on or are about to step onto a pedestrian crossing) and identify critical situations caused by improper behavior of drivers and/or pedestrians. This will help to understand speed adjustment problems related to pedestrian crossings.
Economies of Scope and Local Government Expenditure: Evidence from Creation of Specially Authorized Cities in Japan
Authors: Miyazaki Takeshi
Published: March 2021

There is little evidence of either the existence or absence of economies of scope in public services provided by general-purpose local governments. This study uses difference-in-differences (DID) analysis and the event study method to estimate the impact on expenditure of the designation of cities as either core cities or special case cities, thereby giving them the authority to undertake a wider range of activities, and identify the magnitude of the economies of scope in local governments using panel data for Japanese municipalities during the period 1996–2015. The findings of this research are summarized as follows. First, in the provision of public services by general-local governments, economies of scope do not occur in the short term (2–3 years), but do appear in the mid to long term (more than 5 years for core city status). After the delegation of duties, per capita expenditure for core cities increases by 2.8% immediately after the designation, but then decreases by 0.6% annually. Second, the wider the range of extra activities delegated, the greater the economies of scope.
Microplastics in Surface Waters and Sediments from Guangdong Coastal Areas, South China
Authors: Li Yizheng , Zhang Yindan , Chen Guanglong , Xu Kaihang , Gong Han , Huang Kai , Yan Muting , Wang Jun
Published: March 2021

Microplastic is an emerging global pollutant that have attracted a great deal of attention from researchers and the public. Guangdong Province has a large population and a relatively well-developed economy, but lacks a modern pollution control system. Guangdong has a long coastline with varying levels of pollution, and little research has been conducted on microplastics. Therefore, we investigated the level of microplastic pollution in coastal areas of Guangdong Province, and the abundance of microplastics in surface waters and sediments at 13 sampling sites. The abundance of microplastics in surface water and sediment samples ranged from 850 to 3500 items/L and 433.3 to 4166.3 items/kg, respectively. Fiber is the main type of microplastics in both surface water and sediment. The sampled microplastics were typically transparent. Raman results show that the surface water sample mainly includes rayon (38.2%), polyethylene terephthalate (16.4%), and ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer (12.7%). This study used the pollution load index method to evaluate the pollution risk of microplastics along the coast of Guangdong, and provided the basis for the formulation of environmental policy.
The Travel Behaviour of Polish Women and Adaptation of Transport Systems to Their Needs
Authors: Nosal Hoy Katarzyna , Puławska-Obiedowska Sabina
Published: March 2021

Although knowledge of women’s travel behaviours is essential to guarantee equality in transport, there is still a lack of awareness of gender-differentiated behaviour and gender issues are not often incorporated into urban policy. The aim of the article is to present a first attempt at a wider-scale diagnosis of women’s travel behaviours and needs as well as existing barriers to transportation access for woman in Poland, with respect to current findings. Documents on history, culture, social factors and labour market data were reviewed to indicate factors that may explain travel behaviours. The data of the Travel Studies for seven Polish cities were analysed to diagnose gender differences in travel. Public policies and initiatives were analysed to examine the level of awareness of women’s needs and the adaptation of transport to these needs. The results proved that the greatest differences in the trip purpose was observed for age group 25–49, in which women make more trips for errands, and men for work. Women travel more, which is observed among 25–59-year-olds, if the main occupation is considered. Women travel more on foot and by public transport, while men by private car and the results indicate that it is mostly visible for people aged 25–59. The age groups 39–49 for women and 30–49 for men are the most dependent on the car. The differences may be explained by historical, cultural and social factors, and these factors can be also seen as barriers to achieving equal access to transport. A low level of awareness of women’s mobility needs is one of the reasons that Polish transport systems are not fully adapted to their needs.
Public Officials’ Knowledge of Advances and Gaps for Implementing the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries in Chile
Authors: Estévez Rodrigo A. , Gelcich Stefan
Published: March 2021

The United Nations calls on the international community to implement an ecosystem approach to fisheries (EAF) that considers the complex interrelationships between fisheries and marine and coastal ecosystems, including social and economic dimensions. However, countries experience significant national challenges for the application of the EAF. In this article, we used public officials’ knowledge to understand advances, gaps, and priorities for the implementation of the EAF in Chile. For this, we relied on the valuable information held by fisheries managers and government officials to support decision-making. In Chile, the EAF was established as a mandatory requirement for fisheries management in 2013. Key positive aspects include the promotion of fishers’ participation in inter-sectorial Management Committees to administrate fisheries and the regulation of bycatch and trawling on seamounts. Likewise, Scientific Committees formal roles in management allow the participation of scientists by setting catch limits for each fishery. However, important gaps were also identified. Officials highlighted serious difficulties to integrate social dimensions in fisheries management, and low effective coordination among the institutions to implement the EAF. We concluded that establishing clear protocols to systematize and generate formal instances to build upon government officials’ knowledge seems a clear and cost effective way to advance in the effective implementation of the EAF.
The Opportunity of Valorizing Agricultural Waste, Through Its Conversion into Biostimulants, Biofertilizers, and Biopolymers
Authors: Puglia Debora , Pezzolla Daniela , Gigliotti Giovanni , Torre Luigi , Bartucca Maria Luce , Del Buono Daniele
Published: March 2021

The problems arising from the limited availability of natural resources and the impact of certain anthropogenic activities on the environment must be addressed as soon as possible. To meet this challenge, it is necessary, among other things, to reconsider and redesign agricultural systems to find more sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions, paying specific attention to waste from agriculture. Indeed, the transition to a more sustainable and circular economy should also involve the effective valorization of agricultural waste, which should be seen as an excellent opportunity to obtain valuable materials. For the reasons mentioned above, this review reports and discusses updated studies dealing with the valorization of agricultural waste, through its conversion into materials to be applied to crops and soil. In particular, this review highlights the opportunity to obtain plant biostimulants, biofertilizers, and biopolymers from agricultural waste. This approach can decrease the impact of waste on the environment, allow the replacement and reduction in the use of synthetic compounds in agriculture, and facilitate the transition to a sustainable circular economy.
Studi Kasus: Pemalsuan Daging Sapi dengan Daging Babi Hutan di Kota Bogor
Authors: Nida Lailatun , Pisestyani Herwin , Basri Chaerul
Published: March 2021

The adulteration of beef using wild boar meat in the city of Bogor has been a serious concern in the society. Monitoring and surveillance of beef products are needed to ensure the halal of animal products and to prevent the transmission risk of zoonotic diseases from wild boar meat to humans. The purpose of this study was to analyse the data of Dinas Pertanian Kota Bogor related to meat adulteration in 2013-2017. The case study approach was used in this research by conducting a collection of primary and secondary data. The primary data obtained from an indepth interview with the chief of veterinary public health, processing, and marketing of livestock products of Dinas Pertanian Kota Bogor. The secondary data were obtained from monitoring and surveillance report of Dinas Pertanian Kota Bogor in 2013-2017. The results showed that 7.86% (3/33 samples) of beef samples contained wild boar meat during the 2013-2017 period. The adulterated beef was found mainly from the meat kiosks in traditional markets. In conclusion, monitoring and surveillance related to meat adulteration problem is needed to be improved especially in the traditional market.
Práticas educativas ambientais na formação de educadores das infâncias
Authors: Piske Eliane Lima , Garcia Narjara Mendes , Yunes Maria Angela Mattar
Published: March 2021

Com o foco na perspectiva sistêmica, a formação permanente dos educadores ambientais das infâncias pode apresentar uma relação multidisciplinar potente entre as linguagens e a educação das crianças. O objetivo do estudo é investigar as práticas educativas ambientais de educadores das infâncias e suas perspectivas a partir de experiências em múltiplos contextos e culturas. A pesquisa é qualitativa e tem como base teórica o entrelace de conceitos da Biologia do Conhecer e da Bioecologia do Desenvolvimento Humano. A metodologia adotada foi a Inserção Ecológica, por meio da qual o pesquisador se insere nos espaços formativos para desenhar as oficinas de comunicação e reflexão, que foram inspiradas na Comunicação Não Violenta. Para a análise da produção de informações, utilizamos a ferramenta Sobek. Os resultados evidenciam que as trajetórias educativas são mobilizadas pela possibilidade da conversa(ação). Dessa forma, a contribuição do olhar bioecológico e a proposta experiencial das práticas educativas ambientais influenciam na constituição dos educadores das infâncias.
From Ontology to Ontologies to Trans-Ontology
Authors: Smyrnaios Anthony
Published: March 2021

This paper describes the implications of the transition from Ontology conceived as fundamental metaphysical logos to ontologies construed as postmodern historical applications of this, and then, finally, to Trans-Ontology as the ultimate, futuristic innovation of Transhumanism. If modernity counts as the key shift that has occurred in our living and understanding of the world since the dawn of history, postmodernism seems to be the record of a transition from the absolute Grand Narratives of modernity to a scenario consisting of polycentric, equally justified narratives. Thus, the historical failure of the old Ontology, in the form of monarchy, absolutism, monotheistic religions, Eurocentrism, and nationalism, entails the plurality of approaches and diversity of flexible transformations of ontologies. Yet such a purportedly liberating evolution is encountered en route to the likewise postmodern trans-humanist impulse that aims at a complete transformation of the traditional human essence by means of a theurgist, miraculous, Trans-Theological technology. The latter’s goal is to normalize the arrival of a paradoxically innovative universe, where transhuman beings will rebuild the world, and re-essentialize it. Ultimately, this universal integralism will be based on an ever-growing ludic character, coupled with a mathematically scheduled playfulness, aiming at a transformed, fully integrated and manageable entity.
International experience of the state regulation of tourism: lessons for Ukraine
Authors: Stoika V.
Published: March 2021

Organization of the state regulation of tourism in Ukraine and opportunities for its improvement on the basis of learning from the experience of leading tourist countries in Europe is the purpose of the study. The notion and main purpose of the state regulation of tourist activities is substantiated. It is established that the history of the state regulation of tourism in Ukraine points to the frequent change and re-organization of its central body, which did not facilitate the development of tourism. Analysis of the role of the state in the organization and development of tourist activities in different countries of the world allowed determining four types of models of the state participation in regulation of tourism as a constituent element of economy of the mentioned countries: American, Budget-Forming, European and Mixed. Experience of leading tourist countries (France, Spain, Great Britain and Italy) convinces of the necessity for the efficient building-up of the state bodies responsible for the development of the mentioned branch. Efficient organization of tourism in a country and its state regulation, cooperation with non-governmental institutions, active promotion of the national tourist product, implementation of efficient promotion and PR activities and a developed tourist infrastructure facilitate interest in this country by the tourists and inflow of monetary resources.
ORGANIZATIONAL POLITICS AND WORKPLACE CONFLICT IN SELECTED TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS IN EDO STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Onyeizugbe Chinedu Uzochukwu , Musah Ishaq , Obuebite Jonathan
Published: March 2021

The increasing rate of organisational politics and workplace conflict has been a great challenge to tertiary institutions in Edo State. This study examined how organisational politics affects workplace conflict among tertiary institutions in Edo State. The objective of this study is to examine the relationship that exists between self-interest and communication breakdown of selected tertiary institutions in Edo State. A total number of 369 copies of questionnaire was administered to the respondents domiciled in the six selected tertiary institutions under study (University of Benin, Benin city, Institute of Technology and Management, Usen, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, College of Education, Igueben, Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi, Institute of Physical and Health Education, Afuze) using purposing sampling techniques and 343 copies of questionnaires were retrieved from the respondents. The study was guided by one research question and one hypothesis, correlational design was adopted. The data used was primary data collected through a structured questionnaire. The data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics and the hypothesis was tested using Pearson product moment correlation with the aid of statistical package for social science (SPSS version 21). The findings revealed that there is a significant positive relationship between self-interest and communication breakdown among the selected tertiary institutions in Edo State and the researcher concluded that organisational politics will definitely lead to workplace conflict if not properly managed. The researcher recommended that the management of tertiary institution should put more effort in the supervision of staff so as to reduce the rate of organisational politics which measure is expected to increase employee performance, effective communication and employee output in the long run.
TRADISI ZIARAH DI GUA MARIA KENDALISODO KECAMATAN BAWEN KABUPATEN SEMARANG
Authors: Hendrike Priventa
Published: March 2021

Tradisi ziarah di Gua Maria Kendalisodo merupakan realitas sosial umat Katolik. Melalui pendekatan emic, penelitian budaya ini bertujuan untuk (1) mendeskripsikan ciri-ciri bentuk dan fungsi bangunan, dan (2) mendeskripsikan bentuk-bentuk tradisi ziarah yang terdapat di Gua Maria Kendalisodo, Bawen. Hasil penelitian ini adalah (1) Bangunan yang ada di Gua Maria Kendalisodo adalah Gua Maria dan Taman Doa, Patung Yesus dalam pakaian adat Jawa, dan Trek Jalan Salib, (2) Bentuk tradisi ziarah bersifat individual dan doa komunal yaitu Doa Novena, dan Prosesi Obor Salib dan Jalan Salib, sedangkan makna Gua Maria Kendalisodo adalah sebagai tempat peribadatan, ruang pengabdian, meditasi, akulturasi budaya Jawa, dan tempat interaksi bagi Katolik.
Pengaruh Model Pembelajaran Visual, Auditori Dan Kinestetik (VAK) Berbantuan Media Jam Sudut Terhadap Prestasi Belajar Siswa Kelas III
Authors: Nurhuda Nadia Ikhwa , Hendrawan Budi , Sunanih
Published: March 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh model pembelajaran visual, auditori dan kinestetik (VAK) berbantuan media jam sudut terhadap prestasi belajar matematika siswa kelas III SD Negeri 1 Linggawangi. Jenis penelitian  ini adalah penelitian kuantitatif. Metode penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah adalah Quasi Eksperimen dengan desain Nonequivalent Control Group. Populasi yang digunakan adalah siswa kelas III SD Negeri 1 Linggawangi yang berjumlah 47 orang. Teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah teknik tes, wawancara, dan dokumentasi. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian yang diperoleh diketahui bahwa model pembelajaran VAK berbantuan jam sudut memiliki pengaruh terhadap prestasi belajar siswa SD Negeri 1 Linggawangi pada materi sudut. Hal ini terlihat dari perbedaan hasil nilai rata-rata posttest kelas eksperimen yaitu 86,1 sedangkan pada kelas kontrol yaitu 78,6. Dalam uji hipotesis dilakukan dengan uji independent sample t-test yang diperoleh nilai thitung > ttabel (2,581 > 2,021) sehingga dapat disimpulkan bahwa Ha diterima dan Ho ditolak. Hal ini menunjukkan terdapat berbedaan yang  signifikan antara hasil posttest kelas eksperimen yang mendapat perlakuan dengan model pembelajaran Visual, Auditori dan Kinestetik (VAK) dengan kelas kontrol yang mendapat perlakuan dengan metode konvensional.
Dynamics of phosphorus and potassium in the soil under the tea culture when using organic
Authors:   НАНА, Институт почвоведения и агрохимии, Mirza Aga Vekilova Elmira
Published: March 2021

In the Lankaran region of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the effect of manure, compost in two doses - 10 and 30 t/ha and green mass of green manure 30 t/ha were tested under tea culture. Studies have shown the beneficial effect of these fertilizers on the dynamics of phosphorus and potassium in yellow-podzolic soil. The best results were found when applying higher doses of these fertilizers. It should also be noted that the preparation from waste and the use of environmentally friendly organic fertilizers is of great importance, which plays an important role in protecting the environment from pollution. Key words: organic fertilizers, phosphorus, potassium, tea culture