bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring The World as A Global Family Instead of as A Global Marketplace: Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam in The COVID-19 Environment
Authors: Britney Broxton, Britney , Fraser Ph.D. Nicki , Anthony Wooten, Anthony , Ivanna Buraye, Ivanna , Broxton Kristen Broxton , Singh-Sengupta PhD. Sunita
Published: December 2020

When our way of life is threatened, as in this COVID-19 environment, human beings should forget boundaries and competition and allow our innate spiritual values to lead. By allowing our priorities to align with placing people above power and the marketplace, we can adopt universal, spiritual concepts such as the Hindu philosophy, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam- the world is one family. The adoption and integration of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam into our values and morals creates a global community. By comparing several global organizations, World Central Kitchen, Grameen Bank, VF Corporation, and TikTok who exhibit each outlook, this paper examines the world as a global marketplace vs. the world as a family. The following comparisons demonstrate how allowing inner transformation and interconnectedness through spirituality and a global, familial mindset can positively change global exigencies’ outcome.
Influence of winter wheat growing technologies on morphophysiological and agrochemical aspects of harvest formation
Authors: Oliinyk K. , Davydiuk H. , Klymenko I. , Demyanyuk O.
Published: December 2020

To create high-yielding sowing of winter wheat,which would effectively use the genetic potentialof varieties and soil-climatic conditions of the Forest-Steppe, it is important to study and establish thebasic patterns of formation of elements of cultureproductivity during the vegetation in connectionwith its provision bymacro- and micronutrients. Theaim of the study was to investigate the influence ofcultivation technologies of different intensity on themorphophysiological features of the formation ofwinter wheat harvest in connection with the supply of macro and micronutrients to plants and theirremoval. To solve this problem, we used field, morphophysiological research, methods of chemical, physicochemical analysis using modern methods of atomic absorption spectrophotometry, flame photometry and spectrometry, mathematical and statistical analysis. A study was conducted on the impact of winter wheat cultivation technologies on the morphophysiological aspects of yield formation and supply of plants with nutrients. The dependence between the supply of the basic nutrition elements of winter wheat and the formation of elements of productivity at different stages of organogenesis was established. Morphophysiological studies have shown that the improvement of plant nutrition conditions with energy-saving, intensive and intensive energy-saturated technologies has increased the number of flowers that havereached the XII stage of organogenesis (grains) inthe ears of both orders. The use of intensive energysaturated technologies has increased the density of productive stems in comparison with control. It was determined that the amount of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, manganese and iron, which was used to form the main product (grain), varied depending on the norms of fertilizers applied by the respective cultivation technologies and increased with the use of intensive energy-saturated technologies. It was found that takeaway of copper and zinc with a harvest of grain and straw little depended on the technology of cultivation. With applying of high-intensity technologies of winter wheat cultivation, the level of nutrition by macro- and microelements had a positive impact on the density of productive stems, the number of potential flowers in the ears of stems of both orders and, finally, graininess of the ear and did not show a restrictive effect on the formation of productivity elements. Research in this direction needs further continuation and can be used to form a fertilizer system in the development of intensive technologies forgrowing winter wheat
METHODOLOGY OF NATIONAL SECURITY ASSESSMENT IN THE CONTEXT OF THE PRINCIPLES OF SUSTAINABLE SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Yarovaya Inessa
Published: December 2020

The article summarizes the theoretical and methodological principles of integrated assessment of national security in the context of sustainable spatial development. The emphasis is on the fact that the integrated (comprehensive) socio-ecological and economic assessment of national security in the theoretical and conceptual format should be built in accordance with the methodology of sustainable development.It should be noted that the theory of economic security raises the question of structural and evaluative construction of national (economic) security in accordance with the methodology of sustainable development. This led to the consideration of national security as socio-ecological and economic.Variations of the system of indicators that characterize the level of sustainable development are analyzed. It is concluded that the purposeful management of socio-economic processes and national security in order to achieve sustainable spatial development, the establishment of new environmental and social priorities of the state has led to a change in the assessment system. Here, attention is focused on the fact that there is no single system for the formation of indicators of sustainable development, in particular, in the context of assessing the effectiveness of environmental taxation.Some components of national security and indicators in the context of solving the problem of assessing the effectiveness of the environmental taxation system are considered. The structural components and main indicators of economic, energy and environmental security in relation to the system of environmental taxation are substantiated. Indicators of forest safety are considered separately. Emphasis is placed on the methodology of forming the algorithm for constructing a comprehensive rating assessment of national security components.
FORMATION OF SILPHINIUM PERFOLIATUM L PRODUCTIVITY UNDER DIFFERENT STANDARDS OF SEWERAGE SEDIMENTATION ON SOD-PODZOLIC SOILS
Authors: Lopushniak V , Нrytsuliak Н.
Published: December 2020

Regularities of change of the main biometric indicators of energy culture of Sylphia perfoliatum L.during the introduction of sewage sludge on sod-podzolic soils of Precarpathia have been established. Acomparative analysis of morphometric parameters, namely changes in height and diameter of shoots, thenumber of leaves on the shoot, length and width of leaves.Statistical analysis of indicators was performed using Microsoft Excel. The area of the leaf surfaceof the sylphia perfoliatum l. was determined using the Area S 2.1 program. Mathematical equations arecompiled, which make it possible to predict the relationship between plant height and productivity, therelationship between plant height and the leaf surface area of sylphia perfoliatum l. The model of productivity of a sylphia perfoliatum l. depending on height of plants and quantity of leaves on a plant is made.
MULTISPECTRAL SHEET DIAGNOSTICS OF TECHNOLOGICAL STRESSES ON WINTER RAPES CROPS
Authors: Pasichnyk Natalia , Lysenko Vitalii , Opryshko Aleksey
Published: December 2020

Technological stresses are an urgent challenge for winter crops and in particular rapeseed in industrialproduction and in the mass use of agrochemicals and plant protection products. Effective resuscitationmeasures are possible only in the initial stages of the growing season and require reliable and accessibleinformation about the condition of crops. The purpose of the work is to develop an index based on the resultsof analysis of multispectral images with high spatial resolution, obtained by UAVs for the identificationof technological stresses. During field research on October 30, 2019, it was found that in the affected areas,the plants have an abnormal color of the two lower leaves, namely yellow and red. To identify affectedplants, it was proposed to use an image of the object based on the ratio of several channels simultaneously, which allow to distinguish between affected and healthy plants, soil and leaves of abnormal color. Itis proposed to use the RRL (rape red leaf) indices, which are an indicator of the technological nature ofstress, namely RRLgr, designed exclusively for the optical range and the RRLm index (green — G, red — R,border red — Re and near infrared — NIR). Such indices are convenient for monitoring the condition ofrapeseed crops and automated data processing. It was found that when monitoring rapeseed crops in thegrowing season of 6–8 leaves affected by technological stress, using Slantrange 3p height of 100 m, for the indices RRLgr and RRLm is characterized by abnormal leaf color, which was recorded in 1.5 and 2.1%of the total area of plants on the site, respectively. The use of multispectral analysis makes it possible todifferentiate the identification of technological stresses with different manifestations of impression. Ata standard flight altitude for Slantrange 3p of 100 m with the fixation of anomalous color in 1.5% of thetotal area of winter oilseed rape plants is the basis for the organization of additional ground inspection ofthe identified areas of winter oilseed rape crops.
A double anniversary for the neural correlates of consciousness: Editorial introduction
Authors: Fink Sascha Benjamin
Published: December 2020

This special issue celebrates the double anniversary of the neural correlates of consciousness (NCCs): 30 years since the research programme for finding neural correlates of consciousness was brought back onto the scientific agenda and 20 years since the standard definition of an NCC was published in a seminal anthology. Here, we take up some of the conceptual, methodological, and empirical questions raised and take stock of how the field has developed since then.
The Influence of Perch Height Selection on Vocalization of Pied Triller, Lalage nigra (Aves: Campephagidae) in Suburban Landscapes, Sarawak
Authors: MOHAMAD FIZL SIDQ RAMJI  , AMERA NATASHA MAH MUHAMMAD ADAM MAH
Published: December 2020

Understanding how birds utilised songs and calls to communicate among conspecifics is crucial for their survival, yet it remains an understudied area in bird ecology. We studied the influence of perch height selection on the vocalisation of Pied Triller, a common garden bird, in two suburban landscapes namely Pustaka Negeri Sarawak Recreational Park, Kuching and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak campus, Kota Samarahan from October 2018 to February 2019. Using a Marantz recorder connected to a parabolic reflector, we recorded calls and songs during morning (0630-1030 hr) and late afternoon (1600-1830 hr). Perch object, tree species, roost substrate and perch height from the ground were identified and measured. Clear and good quality spectrograms were used directly to describe song and call types. Photos and video recordings were analysed to describe perch behaviour. The vocal output representatives were then matched to the corresponding behaviour displayed. Our results revealed that Pied Trillers emit four different vocal outputs namely (i) song type, (ii) call type A, (iii) call type B and (iv) call type C. A total of nine behaviours were observed, of which the perch-hop behaviour was observed the most from both male and female Pied Trillers (33.71%), followed by perching (29.21%), foraging (20.22%), preening (7.78%), defecating (2.25%), eating (2.25%), roosting (2.25%), bill wipe (1.12%) and flight (1.12%). They prefer to roost on high perch to emit calls compared to songs. This probably suggest that Pied Triller prioritised vocal transmission and signalling to avoid being masked by surrounding anthropogenic noises and to avoid being conspicuous to potential predators. The most frequently visited perch object was the Weeping fig tree, Ficus benjamina.

 

Keywords: Call, perch height, Pied Triller, song, suburban landscapes
Species Composition and Ecological Distribution of the Subfamily Cicindelinae Latreille, 1801 (Coleoptera: Carabidae) Based on Voucher Specimens in Sarawak
Authors: Isaac Stia Marcellinus , Sazali Siti Nurlydia , Hazali Ratnawati , Abdul Razak Ahmad Irfan , Abu Hasan Aidil Fitri Farah Nabillah
Published: December 2020

The subfamily Cicindelinae which belongs to the family Carabidae are commonly known as tiger beetles. Despite the recent studies conducted on this taxon, current ecological knowledge on tiger beetles is limited. Thus, this study aimed to provide a current checklist of tiger beetles as well as their species distribution, abundances and habitat preferences in Sarawak based on voucher specimens from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak Insect Reference Collection (UIRC). A total of 76 specimens of tiger beetles were examined in which comprising of seven genera from eight species. The genus Neocollyris was represented with two species, namely Neocollyris (s. str.) ermaginata and Neocollyris (Stenocollyris) sarawakensis macrodera, while the other genera were represented by only one species, respectively. The most abundant species with 64 individuals (84.21%) were represented by Cosmodela aurulenta, followed by Abroscelis tenuipes araneipes and Therates labiatus with three individuals (3.95%) and N. ermaginata with two individuals (2.63%). In this study, there were eight ecological habitats being identified, namely heath forest, limestone forest, littoral forest, mixed dipterocarp forest, oil palm plantation, peat swamp forest, riverine forest and urban area. The data indicates that C. aurulenta being recorded at seven ecological habitats suggesting this species to have a wide distribution capability while species such as A. tenuipes araneipes, Callytron doriai, Cicindela sp., Myriochila (s. str.) specularis brevipennis, N. ermaginata and N. s. macrodera suggesting these species to have a very narrow habitat specialisation. The results of this preliminary study provide evidence on the need to conduct further studies on the ecological aspects of tiger beetles in Sarawak.

 

Keywords: Cicindelinae, ecological distribution, Sarawak, tiger beetles, voucher specimens
A Fluorescence Study on Surface Properties of Cationic Gemini Surfactant with Some Special Alcohols
Authors: Riyaj Mohammad
Published: December 2020

Alcohols are very important additives and played a measure role as co-surfactants in various industrial and research applications. While, Gemini surfactants are mainly used as effective emulsifiers, antifoaming agents, bactericidal agents, coating agents and corrosion inhibitors etc.  Therefore, it is important to study about the variations in alkanol concentrations which affects the aggregation number and other related parameters. Surface properties of gemini surfactant butanediyl-1,4-bis(dimethyldodecylammonium bromide) (12-4-12) has been studied by using fluorescence method. This method has been used to calculate the aggregation number (Nagg) and the other related parameters like dielectric constant (D), Stern Volmer binding constant (KSV) of mixed system. This method is also very important for the calculation of the micropolarity of the mixed system (gemini/alcohol). The micropolarity has been obtained with the help of the ratio of intensity of peaks (I1/I3) of the pyrene fluorescence emission spectrum. Cetylpridinium chloride and pyrene were used as quencher and probe, respectively.

Keywords: Gemini surfactant, special alcohols, aggregation number, micropolarity
Hubungan Antara Karakteristik dengan Kadar Ferritin pada Ibu Hamil Trimester III di Puskesmas Jagir Surabaya
Authors: Masruroh Nur , Nugraha Gilang
Published: December 2020

Ferritin is an iron storage protein and is extracellular in serum. Ferritin serum functions as a clinical marker of the body's iron stores status. Low ferritin levels illustrate the low iron stores that lead to iron deficiency conditions resulting in anemia in pregnant women. Some maternal characteristics affect ferritin levels in pregnant women.This study aims to determine the relationship between characteristics with ferritin levels. Taking the location of the research at the Jagir Public Health Center in Surabaya with a sample of 30 respondents who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The research method was observational analytic by taking maternal venous blood to be examined for ferritin levels then looking for the relationship with the characteristics of pregnant women and analyzed using chi square. More than half (83%) of respondents had ferritin levels <30 µg / ml. The results of the analysis using chi square (p = <0.05) show that there is a relationship between age (0.04) and parity (0.01) with ferritin levels. No relationship between education (0.71) and employment (0.23) with ferritin levels. Age and parity were related to ferritin levels. Education and work are not related to ferritin levels for pregnant women in the third trimester. It is expected that pregnant women increase consumption of foods that contain lots of iron to prevent anemia and health workers provide socialization of foods that contain lots of iron.
Intensitas Nyeri Punggung Bawah Ibu Hamil Trimester III yang Melakukan Prenatal Yoga
Authors: Cahyani Putu Dyah Pramesti , Sriasih Ni Gusti Kompiang , Darmapatni Made Widhi Gunapria
Published: December 2020

Low back pain is musculoscletal problem that causes discomfort during pregnancy. Prenatal yoga is non-pharmacology method that can reduce low back pain. This research aims to find the low back pain difference of third trimester pregnant mothers before and after having prenatal yoga in Bunda Setia clinic. This is pre-experimental research with one group pre-test post-test research design. The samples are 36 third trimester pregnant mothers with gestational age of 36-38 weeks who join prenatal yoga in Bunda Setia clinic, chosen by consecutive sampling. The data are taken by observing the level of lower back pain before and after having prenatal yoga. The respondents have prenatal yoga once a week for 2 weeks, 60 minutes duration. The bivariate analysis uses Wilcoxon test α < 0,05. The median of low back pain before prenatal yoga is 5, after prenatal yoga reduce to 2 with ρ value = 0,000 < α (0,05) and Z value (-5.233). The conclusion shows there is low back pain level difference of third trimester pregnant mothers before and after having prenatal yoga in Bunda Setia clinic. This intervention is suggested to be applied by medical staff in order to resolve  low back pain of pregnant mothers.
Faktor-Faktor yang Berhubungan dengan Perilaku Seksual pada Remaja Di SMKN 1 Painan Tahun 2020
Authors: Azian Vini , Yuliva Yuliva , Yusefni Elda
Published: December 2020

Based on the result of SDKI in 2012 and 2017 there was an increase of adolescent sexual behavior, the proportion of female adolescents that had sexual intercourse before marriage 1% became 2%.  The purpose of the research was to find out the factors related to sexual behavior on adolescents at SMKN 1 Painan in 2020. The type of the research is analytic with cross sectional design. The research was conducted from November 06, 2019 to June 30, 2020. The population of the research was the students of SMKN 1 Painan, the sample number was 85 students. The data collection used questioner with google form. The data processing technique was editing, coding, entry, tabulating and cleaning. The data analysis was univariate and bivariate with chi square statistical test. The result of univariate analysis was 54,1% respondents had risky sexual behavior, low religiosity 45,9%, authoritarian parenting 36,5%, and peers play a role in sexual behavior 54,1%. The result of bivariate analysis for religiosity relationship was p=0,001 (p<0,05), parenting style relationship with the value p=0,000 (p<0,005) and peer role p=0,026 (p<0,005) with the sexual behavior on adolescents. It was cocluded that there was the relation of religiosity, parenting style and peer role with the sexual behavior on adolescents. It is expected that the school activates PIK-R at school in order that adolescents have a place to get correct  information about adolescents reproductive health and sexuality.
RANCANG BANGUN ALAT PENGADUK SABUN CAIR BAHAN BAKU MINYAK SERAI WANGI
Authors: Zuber Muhammad , Alfansuri Alfansuri
Published: December 2020

The process of making liquid soap from citronella oil is an interesting thing to know. This study aims to design, create, test and analyze the time and rpm rotation of the most efficient liquid soap mixer machine. Soap is an alkaline local salt (usually a potassium salt) of fatty acids, mainly containing C16 salt (palmitic acid) and C18 (stearic acid) but can also contain several carboxylates with lower atomic weights (Fessenden, 1994 and Ketaren, 1986). Traditionally, lemongrass is used as a flavor generator in food, drinks and traditional medicine (Wijayakusumah, 2002). Fragrant lemongrass is also used as a flavor generator used in spicy sauce, fried chili sauce, chili paste and fish sauce (Oyen, 1999). Data collection observed were device capacity, yield. From the results of the study, the effective capacity of the equipment was 397.1 L / hr.

 

Keywords: liquid soap, citronella oil, effective capacity of the tool, yield.
Pengaruh Variasi Radius Sudu Turbin Angin Darrieus Tipe Sudu-J
Authors: Sulistyono Sulistyono , Faizal Elka , Agus Salim Alfi Tranggono
Published: December 2020

Utilization of alternative energy, therefore this wind turbine is used as an alternative energy power plant. So this experimental study is used to determine how much influence on the performance of the Darrieus type J-blade vertical shaft wind turbine by varying the blade radius. The method used is a true experimental research method. The independent variables in this study are variations in wind speed of 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 m / s. The dependent variable in this research is shaft power and efficiency. Then the controlled variables in this study were the number of blades 3 and the front radius of the blade: 5, 10, and 15 mm. The test results and data processing shows that the blade radius of the Darrieus J-blade type of wind turbine affects the performance of the Darrieus J-blade type wind turbine. In testing the highest value was achieved at a blade radius of 15 mm with a wind speed of 7 m / s, namely the shaft power value of 0.323 Watt and the efficiency value of 4.673%.
Is Distance Teaching-Learning-Evaluation Triad a Form of Digital Art?
Authors: Antipova Tatiana , Riurean Ioana , Riurean Simona
Published: December 2020

The pandemic situation at the beginning of March 2020 forced teachers to develop alternative teaching methods, and most important to find the best ways to keep teaching for every student no matter the situation, as for example, the lack of computer knowledge or hardware/software support. Teachers worldwide struggled to support, encourage, find the best ways not only to help students to keep learning but support them emotionally. At the end of the academic year, teachers made efforts to develop fair, appropriate evaluation procedures adapted to distance education. This paper summarizes the Distance Teaching-Learning-Evaluation (DTLE) evolution in Russia and Romania and some methods developed from March to December 2020 to support the educational activity. Some benefits, challenges and difficulties are identified during the same period of time in different DTLE scenarios, from the point of view of teachers and students, as well. Examples of new adapted methods, dedicated to the DTLE scenarios are al-so addressed in this work.
Integration of Digital Technologies into Education
Authors: Вilyalova Albina
Published: December 2020

The number of universities using digital technologies is growing year by year. Digital technology in the modern world is not only a tool, but also a living environment that opens up new opportunities: learning at any convenient time, continuing education, etc. This article aims to describe the specificity of digital education, the current state of its implementation, the expected results and concerns in this respect. Having shown the core of the digital education and the state of its implementation in modern society, this type of education must be critically analyzed in terms of advantages and risks with reference to contemporary students and the effectiveness of the teaching – learning process, in which they participate. In the study pros and cons of digital learning are revealed.
The current study presents information about advantages of using electronic educational resources in teaching a foreign language based on the experimental work which was done in Naberezhnye Chelny Institute of Kazan Federal University. The success of the experiment presented in this paper is demonstrated by comparing the results of the test group who were taught using electronic educational resources with the reference group who were taught in a common traditional way. The results of the questionnaire suggest that the majority of students believe they have acquired food knowledge using digital technology in education. The statistical analysis shows that the test group students had better achievements compared to the reference group since students from test group have the digital skills.
Changing the Diameter of the Bone Tunnel Is More Effective Than Changing the Tunnel Shape for Restoring Joint Functionality After ACL Reconstruction
Authors: Wang Huizhi , Zhang Min , Cheng Cheng-Kung
Published: December 2020

The clinical implications of changing the shape of the bone tunnel for Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is controversial and few studies have reported on the long-term prevalence for osteoarthritis. As such, this study aims to evaluate the effect of tunnel shape on joint biomechanics. Finite element models of an ACLR were constructed with different shapes (circular, oval, rounded rectangular, rectangular, and gourd-shaped) and diameters (7.5, 8.5, and 9.5 mm) for the bone tunnel. A combined loading of 103 N anterior tibial load, 7.5 Nm internal tibial moment and 6.9 Nm valgus tibial moment was applied at a joint flexion angle of 20°. Joint kinematics and the strain energy density (SED) on the articular cartilage were compared among the different groups. The results showed that conventional ACLR (circular tunnel) lead to an increase in joint kinematics over the intact joint, a lower ligament force and a higher SED on the lateral tibial cartilage. ACLR using the other tunnel shapes resulted in even greater joint kinematics, lower graft force and greater SED on the lateral tibial cartilage. Increasing the tunnel diameter better restored joint kinematics, graft force and articular SED, bringing these values closer to those from the intact knee. In conclusion, increasing the tunnel diameter may be more effective than changing the tunnel shape for restoring joint functionality after ACLR.
Molecular Mechanisms Regulating Muscle Plasticity in Fish
Authors: Koganti Prasanthi , Yao Jianbo , Cleveland Beth M.
Published: December 2020

Growth rates in fish are largely dependent on genetic and environmental factors, of which the latter can be highly variable throughout development. For this reason, muscle growth in fish is particularly dynamic as muscle structure and function can be altered by environmental conditions, a concept referred to as muscle plasticity. Myogenic regulatory factors (MRFs) like Myogenin, MyoD, and Pax7 control the myogenic mechanisms regulating quiescent muscle cell maintenance, proliferation, and differentiation, critical processes central for muscle plasticity. This review focuses on recent advancements in molecular mechanisms involving microRNAs (miRNAs) and DNA methylation that regulate the expression and activity of MRFs in fish. Findings provide overwhelming support that these mechanisms are significant regulators of muscle plasticity, particularly in response to environmental factors like temperature and nutritional challenges. Genetic variation in DNA methylation and miRNA expression also correlate with variation in body weight and growth, suggesting that genetic markers related to these mechanisms may be useful for genomic selection strategies. Collectively, this knowledge improves the understanding of mechanisms regulating muscle plasticity and can contribute to the development of husbandry and breeding strategies that improve growth performance and the ability of the fish to respond to environmental challenges.
The Effect of Name and Narrative Voice in Online Adoption Profiles on the Length of Stay of Sheltered Cats in the UK
Authors: Rix Chloe , Westman Mark , Allum Louise , Hall Evelyn , Pockett Jessica , Pegram Camilla , Serlin Ruth
Published: December 2020

A prolonged length of stay (LOS) in a rehoming shelter can be detrimental to cat behaviour, health and welfare. Research shows LOS is impacted by animal signalment, behaviour and personality, whether or not previously owned or a stray, and considerations such as cage placement, cage design and the provision of enrichment. A retrospective study was undertaken at a charity organisation that rehomes surrendered and stray cats from three UK shelters. Records from 2011 to 2015, relating to 4460 rehomed cats aged between 1.0 year and 20.1 years old, were analysed to investigate factors that might affect LOS. Univariate and multivariate analysis determined the effects of name, adoption description (first person vs. third person), age and sex on LOS. The final multivariate model demonstrated that age, sex and adoption description, but not name, had a significant effect on LOS. Younger cats, male cats and cats with adoption profiles written in the third person had a significantly shorter mean LOS. Survival curves conducted using a log-rank test and time-to-event analysis, using the dates of relinquishment and rehoming, revealed that cats with a third person description had a shorter LOS. Shelters should consider writing adoption descriptions in the third person to minimise LOS.
Characteristics, Management and Outcomes of Spondylodiscitis in Children: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ferri Irene , Ristori Gabriele , Lisi Catiuscia , Galli Luisa , Chiappini Elena
Published: December 2020

Spondylodiscitis (SD) is the concurrent infection of the intervertebral disc and the adjacent vertebral bodies. Currently, there is a substantial lack of structured reviews about this topic. The aim of this study was to systematically review the available literature in order to determine the main features of pediatric SD. A systematic search of MEDLINE database was performed, according to the PRISMA guideline recommendations. Clinical features, laboratory data, radiological signs, treatments strategies, and outcomes were summarized. Studies’ quality assessments were performed using the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklists. A total of 35 retrospective studies were analyzed and 340 children were identified. The most frequently affected age class was 0.5–4 years. The most affected site was the lumbar spine. The most commonly reported symptoms were back pain (37.97%) and refusal to walk/to stand/to sit (49.79%). The most frequently identified pathogen was Staphylococcus aureus (n = 33). The most used antibiotics were third generation cephalosporins. The intravenous therapy duration range was 1–25 weeks, the oral therapy duration range was 5 days–36 months. Surgery was used in 5.88% of children. In 29 cases clinical sequelae were documented. This study provides the main features of pediatric SD; it also emphasizes the significant gaps in the literature regarding this topic.
The Efficacy of MOOC to Support Students in Pedagogical Research
Authors: Kadlečík Miroslav , Munk Michal , Munková Daša
Published: December 2020

The article deals with methods and methodology of pedagogical research in the didactics of informatics in the environment of the Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) based on the principles of connectivism, which offers open, non-formal, and community education. The MOOC was created as a support for the implementation of pedagogical research (primarily for final theses), specifically for solving a causal research problem, which is the most challenging research issue in pedagogical research. We found that the created MOOC is didactically effective for all study degrees. We also identified the parts of the course (which correspond to the stages of processing the experiment) causing the participants the biggest problems. The surprising finding was that the data understanding (data exploration phase) causes the problem the most. Its importance was underestimated when designing the MOOC. Although this phase is the least computationally demanding, it is very important since it is subsequently related to the correct determination of the null statistical hypotheses.
Spatiotemporal Variations in Particulate Matter and Air Quality over China: National, Regional and Urban Scales
Authors: Luo Hao , Han Yong , Cheng Xinghong , Lu Chunsong , Wu Yonghua
Published: December 2020

Ambient exposure to particulate matter (PM) air pollution is known to have an adverse effect on public health worldwide. Rapid increase rates of economic and urbanization, industrial development, and environmental change in China have exacerbated the occurrence of air pollution. This study examines the temporal and spatial distribution of PM on national, regional and local scales in China during 2014–2016. The relationships between the PM2.5 concentration rising rate (PMRR) and meteorological parameters (wind speed and wind direction) are discussed. The dataset of Air Quality Index (AQI), PM10 (PM diameter < 10 μm ) and PM2.5 (PM diameter < 2.5 μm) were collected in 169, 369, and 367 cities in 2014, 2015, and 2016 over China, respectively. The results show that the air quality has been generally improved on the national scale, but deteriorated locally in areas such as the Feiwei Plain. The northwest China (NW) and Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei (BTH) regions are the worst areas of PM pollution, which are mainly manifested by the excessive PM10 caused by blowing dust in spring in NW and the intensive emissions of PM2.5 in winter in BTH. With the classified seven geographic regions, we demonstrate the significant spatial difference and seasonal variation of PM concentration and PM2.5/PM10 ratio, which indicate different emission sources. Furthermore, the dynamic analysis of the PM2.5 pollution process in 11 large urban cities shows dramatic effects of wind speed and wind direction on the PM2.5 loadings.
Low-Level Wind Shear Identification along the Glide Path at BCIA by the Pulsed Coherent Doppler Lidar
Authors: Zhang Hongwei , Liu Xiaoying , Wang Qichao , Zhang Jianjun , He Zhiqiang , Zhang Xi , Li Rongzhong , Zhang Kailin , Tang Junwu , Wu Songhua
Published: December 2020

Low-level wind shear is usually to be a rapidly changing meteorological phenomenon that cannot be ignored in aviation security service by affecting the air speed of landing and take-off aircrafts. The lidar team in Ocean University of China (OUC) carried out the long term particular researches on the low-level wind shear identification and regional wind shear inducement search at Beijing Capital International Airport (BCIA) from 2015 to 2020 by operating several pulsed coherent Doppler lidar (PCDL) systems. On account of the improved glide path scanning strategy and virtual multiple wind anemometers based on the rang height indicator (RHI) modes, the small-scale meteorological phenomenon along the glide path and/or runway center line direction can be captured. In this paper, the device configuration, scanning strategies, and results of the observation data are proposed. The algorithms to identify the low-level wind shear based on the reconstructed headwind profiles data have been tested and proved based on the lidar data obtained from December 2018 to January 2019. High spatial resolution observation data at vertical direction are utilized to study the regional wind shear inducement at the 36L end of BCIA under strong northwest wind conditions.
Assessment of Indoor Benzene and Its Alkyl Derivatives Concentrations in Offices Belonging to University of Technology (Poland)
Authors: Kozielska Barbara , Kaleta Dorota
Published: December 2020

Indoor air contamination in office rooms is regarded as one of the most important issues in the protection of workers’ health, because contaminants, even those occurring at low concentrations, can cause health problems for the office staff in view of the long exposure time. This paper presents the results of measurements of benzene and its alkyl derivatives (toluene, ethylbenzene, xylenes, styrene, and 1,3,5-trimethylbenzene)—known indicators of human exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the air in newly renovated offices at University of Technology (Upper Silesia, Poland). Monthly samples of indoor and outdoor air were collected during the years 2018–2019 by passive methods and analyzed by thermal desorption-gas chromatography with flame ionization detector (TD-GC/FID). In the first month of measurements average concentrations of the sum of five VOCs under consideration was 127.7 µg/m3, then in subsequent months between 15.1 µg/m3 to 87.3 µg/m3. The average concentration of carcinogenic benzene was below 1.5 μg/m3. Toluene had the highest concentration among studied VOCs, accounting for as high as 60% and 84% of the total indoor and outdoor VOCs, respectively. High indoor-to-outdoor (I/O) ratios for ethylbenzene (7.1), m,p-xylene (9.8), and styrene (12.5) indicate the dominant role of indoor sources.
Efficacy of the Cell Perturbation Method in Large-Eddy Simulations of Boundary Layer Flow over Complex Terrain
Authors: Connolly Alex , van Veen Leendert , Neher James , Geurts Bernard J. , Mirocha Jeff , Chow Fotini Katopodes
Published: December 2020

A challenge to simulating turbulent flow in multiscale atmospheric applications is the efficient generation of resolved turbulence motions over an area of interest. One approach is to apply small perturbations to flow variables near the inflow planes of turbulence-resolving simulation domains nested within larger mesoscale domains. While this approach has been examined in numerous idealized and simple terrain cases, its efficacy in complex terrain environments has not yet been fully explored. Here, we examine the benefits of the stochastic cell perturbation method (CPM) over real complex terrain using data from the 2017 Perdigão field campaign, conducted in an approximately 2-km wide valley situated between two nearly parallel ridges. Following a typical configuration for multiscale simulation using nested domains within the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model to downscale from the mesoscale to a large-eddy simulation (LES), we apply the CPM on a domain with horizontal grid spacing of 150 m. At this resolution, spurious coherent structures are often observed under unstable atmospheric conditions with moderate mean wind speeds. Results from such an intermediate resolution grid are often nested down for finer, more detailed LES, where these spurious structures adversely affect the development of turbulence on the subsequent finer grid nest. We therefore examine the impacts of the CPM on the representation of turbulence within the nested LES domain under moderate mean flow conditions in three different stability regimes: weakly convective, strongly convective, and weakly stable. In addition, two different resolutions of the underlying terrain are used to explore the role of the complex topography itself in generating turbulent structures. We demonstrate that the CPM improves the representation of turbulence within the LES domain, relative to the use of high-resolution complex terrain alone. During the convective conditions, the CPM improves the rate at which smaller-scales of turbulence form, while also accelerating the attenuation of the spurious numerically generated roll structures near the inflow boundary. During stable conditions, the coarse mesh spacing of the intermediate LES domain used herein was insufficient to maintain resolved turbulence using CPM as the flow develops downstream, highlighting the need for yet higher resolution under even weakly stable conditions, and the importance of accurate representation of flow on intermediate LES grids.
Changes in Intensity and Variability of Tropical Cyclones over the Western North Pacific and Their Local Impacts under Different Types of El Niños
Authors: Liu Yuhang , Yoon Sun-Kwon , Kim Jong-Suk , Xiong Lihua , Lee Joo-Heon
Published: December 2020

This study investigated the effects of El Niño events on tropical cyclone (TC) characteristics over the western North Pacific (WNP) region. First, TC characteristics associated with large-scale atmospheric phenomena (i.e., genesis position, frequency, track, intensity, and duration) were investigated in the WNP in relation to various types of El Niño events—moderate central Pacific (MCP), moderate eastern Pacific (MEP), and strong basin-wide (SBW). Subsequently, the seasonal and regional variability of TC-induced rainfall across China was analyzed to compare precipitation patterns under the three El Niño types. When extreme El Niño events of varying degrees occurred, the local rainfall varied during the developmental and decaying years. The development of MEP and SBW was associated with a distinct change in TC-induced rainfall. During MEP development, TC-induced rainfall occurred in eastern and northeastern China, whereas in SBW, TC-induced heavy rainfall occurred in southwest China. During SBW development, the southwestern region was affected by TCs over a long period, with the eastern and northeastern regions being affected significantly fewer days. During El Niño decay, coastal areas were relatively more affected by TCs during MCP events, and the Pearl River basin was more affected during SBW events. This study’s results could help mitigate TC-related disasters and improve water-supply management.
isomiRs–Hidden Soldiers in the miRNA Regulatory Army, and How to Find Them?
Authors: Glogovitis Ilias , Yahubyan Galina , Würdinger Thomas , Koppers-Lalic Danijela , Baev Vesselin
Published: December 2020

Numerous studies on microRNAs (miRNA) in cancer and other diseases have been accompanied by diverse computational approaches and experimental methods to predict and validate miRNA biological and clinical significance as easily accessible disease biomarkers. In recent years, the application of the next-generation deep sequencing for the analysis and discovery of novel RNA biomarkers has clearly shown an expanding repertoire of diverse sequence variants of mature miRNAs, or isomiRs, resulting from alternative post-transcriptional processing events, and affected by (patho)physiological changes, population origin, individual’s gender, and age. Here, we provide an in-depth overview of currently available bioinformatics approaches for the detection and visualization of both mature miRNA and cognate isomiR sequences. An attempt has been made to present in a systematic way the advantages and downsides of in silico approaches in terms of their sensitivity and accuracy performance, as well as used methods, workflows, and processing steps, and end output dataset overlapping issues. The focus is given to the challenges and pitfalls of isomiR expression analysis. Specifically, we address the availability of tools enabling research without extensive bioinformatics background to explore this fascinating corner of the small RNAome universe that may facilitate the discovery of new and more reliable disease biomarkers.
On the Mechanism of Bioinspired Formation of Inorganic Oxides: Structural Evidence of the Electrostatic Nature of the Interaction between a Mononuclear Inorganic Precursor and Lysozyme
Authors: Gigli Lucia , Ravera Enrico , Calderone Vito , Luchinat Claudio
Published: December 2020

Nature has evolved several molecular machineries to promote the formation at physiological conditions of inorganic materials, which would otherwise be formed in extreme conditions. The molecular determinants of this process have been established over the last decade, identifying a strong role of electrostatics in the first steps of the precipitation. However, no conclusive, structure-based evidence has been provided so far. In this manuscript, we test the binding of lysozyme with silica and titania potential precursors. In contrast with the absence of structural information about the interaction with the silica precursor, we observe the interaction with a mononuclear titanium(IV) species, which is found to occur in a region rich of positive charges.
Perspectives of Esophageal Cancer Survivors on Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery
Authors: Bennett Annemarie E. , O’Neill Linda , Connolly Deirdre , Guinan Emer , Boland Lauren , Doyle Suzanne , O’Sullivan Jacintha , Reynolds John V. , Hussey Juliette
Published: December 2020

Esophageal cancer poses challenges to all domains of wellbeing. This qualitative study aimed to explore the experiences of esophageal cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, with a view to informing the health education needs of this group. Eighteen persons who had undergone an esophagectomy participated in one of four audio-taped focus groups in a specialist hospital for cancer care. Transcriptions were analyzed thematically. Fear and uncertainty underpinned all stages of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Participants emphasized: (a) a lack of understanding over what to expect throughout treatment and recovery; (b) the demanding and traumatic period of adjustment required as a result of changes to their physical, psychological, and social functioning; and, (c) that support provided by family, friends, and acquaintances was variable and uninformed, often to the point of being counterproductive to physical and psychosocial recovery. Tailored education is needed to enable patients to prepare for each stage of their cancer journey. Equally, families and wider social networks should receive education that enables them to provide esophageal cancer survivors with appropriate support. Education should be provided at intervals that enable patients, survivors, and support networks to prepare for the physical, emotional, and social challenges experienced during diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.
Integrated Omics Analysis of Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Cells Harboring the EGFR C797S Mutation Reveals the Potential of AXL as a Novel Therapeutic Target in TKI-Resistant Lung Cancer
Authors: Wang Tong-Hong , Wu Chih-Ching , Huang Kuo-Yen , Leu Yann-Lii , Yang Shuenn-Chen , Chen Ci-Ling , Chen Chi-Yuan
Published: December 2020

Oncogenic mutations of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) are responsive to targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) treatment in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, NSCLC patients harboring activating EGFR mutations inevitably develop resistance to TKIs. The acquired EGFR C797S mutation is a known mechanism that confers resistance to third-generation EGFR TKIs such as AZD9291. In this work, we employed CRISPR/Cas9 genome-editing technology to knock-in the EGFR C797S mutation into an NSCLC cell line harboring EGFR L858R/T790M. The established cell model was used to investigate the biology and treatment strategy of acquired EGFR C797S mutations. Transcriptome and proteome analyses revealed that the differentially expressed genes/proteins in the cells harboring the EGFR C797S mutation are associated with a mesenchymal-like cell state with elevated expression of AXL receptor tyrosine kinase. Furthermore, we presented evidence that inhibition of AXL is effective in slowing the growth of NSCLC cells harboring EGFR C797S. Our findings suggest that AXL inhibition could be a second-line or a potential adjuvant treatment for NSCLC harboring the EGFR C797S mutation.