bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Comic-Based Mathematics Learning Media on Social Arithmetic Topic
Authors: Saputri R R , Qohar A
Published: October 2020

Learning media is a tool to deliver learning material to students during the learning process. This research aims to develop comic-based learning media on the social arithmetic learning material of class VII students. The research trial was conducted at Sunan Kalijaga Jabung Junior High School in class VII C, with a total of 26 students as the research subjects. The development process of the learning media refers to the ADDIE model, which consists of the stages of Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation. Based on data analysis, the results obtained are as follows: (1) the learning media validity test result shows that the learning media is valid with a percentage value of 85% and the category of “Good”; (2) the effectiveness test result was obtained through the students’ observation sheet and questionnaire with a percentage of 50% < x ⩽ 75% that can be included in the category of “Good”; (3) the practicality test result was obtained through learning observation sheets and student questionnaires. Learning observation sheet with a percentage of 87.5% is included in the category of “Good”, while the students’ responses questionnaire result sheets with a percentage of 91% is included in the category of “Very Good”. Based on those three test results, it can be said that this research has successfully produced a valid, practical and effective learning media.
Application of SEM in analyzing student satisfaction with administrative services
Authors: Hermanto K , Suarantala R , Utami S F , Sudirman S
Published: October 2020

Satisfaction (y), the most basic and latest standard in improving services quality, is influenced by five variables, namely tangibles (x1
), reliability (x2
), responsibility (x3
), assurance (x4
), and emphaty (x5
). In this study, analyzing the satisfaction of Industrial Engineering students at the Sumbawa University of Technology with the administrative services provided by the administration division of the Faculty of Engineering. The analysis is processed using the Structural Equation Model (SEM). From the analysis, we obtained that the variables that can be used to analyze the satisfaction of Industrial Engineering students consist of three variables, namely tangible, reliability, and empathy. Those three variables are simultaneously able to explain the satisfaction variable.
Numbers sequence in batik Jlamprang motif of Pekalongan
Authors: ‘Adna S F , Nasution N B , Mardhiyana D
Published: October 2020

The background of this study is the intention of using Batik Jlamprang motif as a context to teach mathematics in junior high school in Pekalongan. It is known that Batik Jlamprang is an original batik motif from Pekalongan. However, the use of Batik Jlamprang as a context for teaching in school is still rare. Therefore, this study aims to describe the certain mathematical concepts that can be taught by using Batik Jlamprang motif, which is the concept of the arithmetic sequence. We gathered data from the public library and electronic media, and then we observed them. Also, we visited the Museum Batik of Pekalongan to get a broader view of the data. The result of this study shows that the motif of Batik Jlamprang can be used as an introduction about arithmetic sequences but cannot be used to teach the concept of the sum of the first nthterm.
Android-based augmented reality media and the curiosity about mathematics
Authors: Pamungkas T D
Published: October 2020

The rapid development of technology has changed the paradigm of education, especially when technology is combined pedagogically, creating new opportunities to improve the quality of teaching and learning. One of the opportunities to improve the quality of teaching and learning is the use of Augmented Reality. Augmented Reality technology attracts student motivation and curiosity so that students are more active, creative, and have high enthusiasm for learning, specifically mathematics. This study reviews some of the literature regarding information about mobile augmented reality and its implementation in increasing students’ curiosity about mathematics.
Developing teaching materials for Trigonometry in mathematics with realistic orientation using HOTS questions
Authors: Sukendra I K
Published: October 2020

This research aimed to find the learning characteristics, developing procedure of teaching material, and obtain the effectiveness of Trigonometry material in high school level with realistic mathematics education orienting in higher-order thinking skills (HOTS) questions in improving the activity and learning outcome. The type of research used for this was design research. The obtained product was Trigonometry teaching material with valid, practical, and effective quality. The subject of this research was based on the research stages. Its technique of data collecting used purposive sampling. This was conducted in XI class 1 of Science (MIPA) of SMAN 7 Denpasar academic year 2019/2020. This design research included 3 phases, i.e., preliminary research, prototyping, and assessment. The development of teaching material regarding the characteristics in realistic mathematics education orienting in HOTS questions with valid, practical, and effective quality. The learning characteristics: used contextual questions, using various models, students’ contribution, skill, and good behavior. Teaching material with realistic mathematics education orienting on HOTS questions that have been developed was sufficiently effective in increasing the activity and learning outcome of students.
A learning process for early childhood: a case of geometry and numbers
Authors: Efriani A , Zulkardi Z , Putri R I I , Aisyah N
Published: October 2020

The teacher is a parent for young children in school. In maximizing learning in schools, the role of a teacher is needed. This study aims to describe the learning process for childhood by teachers both in plannng, implementatuon, and evaluaton of geometry and numbers. The subjects of this study were 30 teachers from 20 schools in South Sumatra. The method used is descriptive with qualitative and quantitative types. Data were collected using questionnaires and interviews. The results obtained that the implementation of learning undertaken by teachers both in planning, implementation, and evaluation has been carried out in each school. It’s just that the implementation is not optimal. It is because there is no awareness of the teacher about the need for learning tools, learning is still not following the stages of development due to the limitations of the media and the lack of teacher creativity. It requires training as an evaluation of the activities that have been carried out.
Optimal control of diphtheria epidemic model with prevention and treatment
Authors: Izzati N , Andriani A , Robi’aqolbi R
Published: October 2020

Diphtheria is an infectious and deadly disease that spread through droplet transmission. Nevertheless, diphtheria can be prevented by immunization. One of many ways to gain immunity against the disease is by getting a vaccine. Diphtheria vaccine should be given at least three times in one’s lifetime and will be effective if given every ten years. However, the immunization program in developing countries, such as Indonesia, is not optimal yet, and that is one of the causes of the outbreak. Therefore, it is necessary to optimize the immunization program. In this study, we propose a mathematical model to describe the spreading of diphtheria disease. We formulate an optimal control problem on the SEIQR model to minimize the spreading through quarantine and optimize the proportion of vaccinated people through the immunization campaign. Here, we apply Pontryagin Minimum Principle to find the characteristics of the solution of optimal control problems analytically, and DOTcvpSB is used to solve the problem numerically. Based on the analytical and numerical solutions, the optimal control problem constructed could minimize the spread of the outbreak and its cost function.
Exploring the types of a material presentation by teachers in mathematics learning during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Murtafiah W , Suwarno S , Lestari N D S
Published: October 2020

This study aims to explore the types of presentation of material by teachers in learning mathematics during the Covid-19 pandemic. This research is exploratory qualitative because it is used to examine the kinds of mathematics teachers’ learning materials presentation. The data collection used structured interviews through questionnaires distributed by Google forms. Data analysis was performed by reducing, presenting, and drawing conclusions about the types of material presentations by mathematics teachers during the Covid-19 pandemic. The results showed that there were several types of mathematics teachers in presenting material during the Covid-19 epidemic, The results showed that there were several types of mathematics teachers in explaining material during the Covid-19 pandemic, namely: 1) there were three dominant data presentation techniques performed by the teacher, namely uploading material, uploading videos, and asking students to open books/student worksheet, 2) platforms that are effective for presenting material are WhatsApp, Google Classroom, Zoom, and YouTube, 3) learning settings are dominated by independent asynchronous, and 4) effective presentation of material according to the teacher, uploading material with video, multi strategies (using a combination of several platforms), and asking students to open books/student worksheet.
Uno stacko based on realistic mathematics: A developing learning media of trigonometry
Authors: Kusumaningsih W , Buchori A , Cahyono H G
Published: October 2020

This research aimed to develop a media uno stacko mathematics based on a realistic mathematical approach to improve students’ understanding of mathematical concepts. The development model used was ADDIE with the pretest and posttest research designs in the control and experimental classes. The instruments used in this study were documentation, tests, and questionnaires. The analysis showed that students have problems in understanding the concepts and need engaging learning media. Then we think to design a media uno stacko mathematics. After that, media and learning tools that have been made subsequently validated by media experts, material experts, and learning design experts, each of whom with an average validation result in the very high category. In its implementation in the field shows that this media is effectively used for learning by obtaining an average N-Gain in the experimental higher than the control class with a significant difference. Furthermore, the practicality questionnaire showed that the media unomat based on a realistic approach to practical mathematics was used to obtain very good results. Based on data obtained, it was concluded that the uno stacko mathematics media was valid, effective, and practical.
Meta-analysis: google classroom on mathematics learning in Indonesia as an alternative online media during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Etika E D , Patmaningrum A , Yekti S M P , ‘Aini A Z , Perdana R D P
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this study was to determine the research profile consisting of articles related to Google Classroom on mathematics learning in Indonesia. This research is meta-analysis research by conducting research journal studies. The research journals were chosen purposively based on the latest and suitability of the research theme, namely the use of Google Classroom in mathematics learning in Indonesia. This study examines 17 research journals in the last 5 years (2016 - 2020) originating from the Google Scholar database. The instrument in this study was the human instrument, which was the researcher himself who acted as the research instrument. The data collected is a research profile, research objectives, research designs, research instruments, and analysis techniques in research related to Google Classroom on mathematics learning in Indonesia. Analysis of the data used is descriptive qualitative. The results of this meta-analysis show that Google Classroom has a positive impact on mathematics learning in Indonesia.
Improving mathematics learning of geometry through the concrete-pictorial-abstract (CPA) approach: collaborative action research
Authors: Salimi M , Suhartono S , Hidayah R , Fajari L E W
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this research is: 1) describe the steps in the application of the CPA approach, 2) improve mathematics learning through of geometry the CPA approach, and 3) analyze the constraints and solutions of applying the CPA approach. This research is a collaborative classroom action research conducted in two cycles. The subjects were teachers, and students of class IV amounted to 21 students. Data collection techniques using observation, interviews, and tests. The validity of the data uses the triangulation of methods and sources. Data analysis techniques include data reduction, data presentation, and conclusions. The results showed that: 1) the application of the CPA approach to improve mathematics learning about the circumference and width of the flat structure was carried out with the steps of a) concrete, b) pictorial, c) abstract; 2) the application of the CPA approach can improve mathematics learning based on observations and test cycles I and II; and 3) constraints in applying the CPA approach is that the teacher directly demonstrates abstract situation measurement and has not shown modeling of abstract situation measurement to all students, while the solution is to explain examples of abstract situations to students first then explain how to measure abstractly.
Problem-based and thinking talk write learning model, mathematical reasoning, and transformation geometry
Authors: Rozana I , Makmuri M , Hakim L E
Published: October 2020

Several studies on learning mathematics show that students’ reasoning abilities are still low. Students may be more introduced to the use of formulas and memorizing formulas without involving reasoning. This reason is what underlies researchers to conduct research using the Problem Based Learning and Think Talk Write models. This study aims to 1) determine the effectiveness of mathematics learning by using Problem-Based Learning to improve mathematical reasoning abilities, 2) determine the effectiveness of mathematics learning by using Think Talk Write learning to enhance mathematical reasoning abilities, and 3) determine the difference between Problem-Based Learning and Think Talk Write learning models to improve mathematical reasoning abilities. The research method used in this study is quasi-experimental. The design used a pretest-posttest with a randomized control group design. Data collection techniques use test instruments to measure mathematical reasoning abilities and questionnaires to measure student learning interest. The results showed that mathematics learning with Problem-Based Learning model learning is effective in terms of increasing mathematical reasoning abilities. Mathematical learning with Think Talk Write learning models are effective in terms of increasing mathematical reasoning abilities. And, there is no difference between the Problem-Based Learning and Think Talk Write model for improving mathematical reasoning abilities.
An analysis of group formation process in statistics course with cooperative model
Authors: Kosasih U , Haerani T , Nurjanah N , Rahman S A
Published: October 2020

Good group formation gives students enthusiasm for mathematics learning. Group formation often results in mathematics learning discomfort. Therefore, the mathematics teacher needs to review ways to form study groups. This study examines ways to create groups that are in line with student needs. This type of research is a qualitative study with the subject being a junior high school student. The instruments used were tests and interview guides. Based on the data obtained, this study concludes that there are two ways of forming learning groups, namely grouping by number-grouping and independent-grouping. One of the two methods is more effective in achieving learning objectives.
The relationship between habits of mind and metacognition in solving real analysis problems
Authors: Tyaningsih R Y , Triutami T W , Novitasari D , Wulandari N P , Cholily Y M
Published: October 2020

The habits of mind are often associated with metacognition because both are related to human thinking. Metacognition skills focus on how a person manages his thoughts, whereas habits of mind focus on one’s ability to think and make conclusions about one’s thoughts. The purpose of this research was to determine the relationship between habits of mind and metacognition of students in solving real analysis problems. Sampling is done by purposively. The subjects in this study were students of Mathematics Education in Semester 5 Academic Year 2019/2020. This type of research is quantitative with data collection techniques using test and online surveys. The data obtained were analyzed by Correlation Analysis. The results of data analysis show the relationship between habits of mind and metacognition in solving mathematical problems is a very strong positive, for metacognition-problem solving and habits of mind-problem solving. Positive means the unidirectional relationship between habits of mind and metacognition, the purpose of unidirectional is the better the habits of the mind, the better the metacognition and vice versa. Based on the results of this study, it can be concluded that there is a significant relationship between habits of mind and metacognition of students in solving mathematical problems.
Flipped classroom learning model with group investigation strategy to increase the enjoyment of mathematics in elementary school students
Authors: Hastuti R I
Published: October 2020

Mathematics is very important to learn because it is widely applied in daily life. Enjoyment is an important aspect of learning mathematics. However, the enjoyment of mathematics is still in the low category. Therefore, it is necessary to choose the proper learning model and strategy to create fun mathematics learning activities to encourage students’ enjoyment of mathematics. This study examines the theoretical framework of the flipped classroom learning model with a group investigation strategy to increase the enjoyment of mathematics in elementary school students. The method used in this study is a literature review. Data collected from articles published in various scientific journals and other relevant sources. The results show that to increase students’ enjoyment of mathematics, it can be done through how the teacher designs mathematics learning activities for students. The flipped classroom learning model with a group investigation strategy is an innovation that uses a technology-based blended learning approach with the concept of learning carried out outside and inside the classroom so that student-centred learning, more flexible, collaborative, active, and enjoyable.
Design of distance lectures in mathematics education with the utilization of the integration of Zoom and YouTube application
Authors: Subhi M A , Nurjanah N , Kosasih U , Rahman S A
Published: October 2020

Something that is considered new must meet difficulties in its implementation. Including distance lectures. The cause can come from various factors. This research development aims to produce distance lecture design by utilizing the integration of the Zoom and YouTube applications on students of the Mathematics Education Department in a private university in Bandung. The development model uses an adaptation of the Plomp development model by carrying out two phases, namely the preliminary investigation phase and the design phase. From the results of the initial research, it can be concluded that: the development of distance lecture design is very essential, design of distance lectures include: roles in lectures (lecturer, host, and student), supporting applications (Zoom, YouTube, and OBS Studio), and interaction design that connects roles in lecturer with supporting applications, and the utilization of the Zoom and YouTube application integration has the potential to be more effective and efficient.
An invasive plant rapidly increased the similarity of soil fungal pathogen communities
Authors: Wang Meiling , Tang Xuefei , Sun Xiaoqiu , Jia Bingbing , Xu Hao , Jiang Suai , Siemann Evan , Lu Xinmin
Published: October 2020

Background and Aims

Plant invasions can change soil microbial communities and affect subsequent invasions directly or indirectly via foliar herbivory. It has been proposed that invaders promote uniform biotic communities that displace diverse, spatially variable communities (the biotic homogenization hypothesis), but this has not been experimentally tested for soil microbial communities, so the underlying mechanisms and dynamics are unclear. Here, we compared density-dependent impacts of the invasive plant Alternanthera philoxeroides and its native congener A. sessilis on soil fungal communities, and their feedback effects on plants and a foliar beetle.

Methods

We conducted a plant–soil feedback (PSF) experiment and a laboratory bioassay to examine PSFs associated with the native and invasive plants and a beetle feeding on them. We also characterized the soil fungal community using high-throughput sequencing.

Key Results

We found locally differentiated soil fungal pathogen assemblages associated with high densities of the native plant A. sessilis but little variation in those associated with the invasive congener A. philoxeroides, regardless of plant density. In contrast, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal assemblages associated with high densities of the invasive plant were more variable. Soil biota decreased plant shoot mass but their effect was weak for the invasive plant growing in native plant-conditioned soils. PSFs increased the larval biomass of a beetle reared on leaves of the native plant only. Moreover, PSFs on plant shoot and root mass and beetle mass were predicted by different pathogen taxa in a plant species-specific manner.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that plant invasions can rapidly increase the similarity of soil pathogen assemblages even at low plant densities, leading to taxonomically and functionally homogeneous soil communities that may limit negative soil effects on invasive plants.
Watson–Crick Jumping Finite Automata: Combination, Comparison and Closure
Authors: Mishra U K , Mahalingam K , Rama R
Published: October 2020

A new model of computation called Watson–Crick jumping finite automata was introduced by Mahalingam et al., and the authors study the computing power and closure properties of the variants of the model. There are four variants of the model: no state, 1-limited, all-final and simple Watson–Crick jumping finite automata. In this paper, we introduce a restricted version that is a combination of variants of the existing model. It becomes essential to explore the computing power and closure properties of these combinations. The combination variants are extensively compared with Chomsky hierarchy, general jumping finite automata family and among themselves. We also explore the closure properties of such restricted automata.
Dynamic top height models for several major forest tree species in Great Britain
Authors: Manso Rubén , McLean J Paul , Arcangeli Catia , Matthews Robert
Published: October 2020

In this paper, we present new dynamic top height models for 10 major species in Great Britain. These models for pure, even-aged stands replace the current, static top height-age curves published in the 1980s, which are no longer reliable in the light of the new data that have been added over the past decades. We followed the generalized algebraic difference approach (GADA) to build the new models and specifically focused on models derived from the Hessfeld IV and Chapman–Richards height-age base equations. We selected a multi-asymptote and polymorphic GADA version of the Chapman–Richards equation for all the species, with the anamorphic functional form as a special case derived from the non-significance of one of the global parameters. The new models are dynamic, accurate and robust, which will permit unbiased yield predictions from current top height-dependent yield simulators in Great Britain.
Ground-motion prediction models evoked by seismicity in the Upper Silesia Coal Basin, Poland, the review with case studies
Authors: Mendecki Maciej J , Odrobińska Judyta , Patyńśka Renata , Idziak Adam F
Published: October 2020

This paper presents the results of new research on ground-motion relations from three areas in the Upper Silesia Coal Basin (USCB) in Poland and compares them with of ground-motion relations. These three mining areas of the USCB were investigated in order to better predict ground motion caused by seismic events. The study focused on variations in regression parameters and predicted PGA (peak ground acceleration) for different areas to better understand the influence of geology.

To compare our results to previous models we had to unify the known ground-motion prediction equations (GMPE). Then, we used various regression models to predict the corresponding PGA values of a relatively strong USCB seismic event with an energy level of 108 J (ML = 3.3) and compared their results. The regression model parameters were compared to each other, particularly those related to energy and distance, which corresponds to a geometrical scattering (attenuation) of seismic waves as well as the influence of wave type (body or surface). Finally, building upon several established regression models, our analysis showed a strong linear correlation between two regression parameters corresponding to energy and distance. However, an open question remains whether this relation can be explained by physics, or, from a mathematical point of view, it is the effect of linear dependence of matrix vectors logE and logR. A comparison of different GMPEs allows for better verification of knowledge about the impact of tremors on ground motion in the USCB.
Proportionality in Refugee Exclusion
Authors: Gökşen Elif
Published: October 2020

In the increased discussions about international security and terrorism, the application of the exclusion clauses in Article 1 F of the 1951 Refugee Convention has become a topical and controversial issue. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) advises states to apply a proportionality test to weigh the gravity of the crime against the consequences of exclusion for cases concerning serious non-political crimes and war crimes. However, there is no uniform approach in state practice. Also, the concept of ‘gravity of the crime’ is not clarified in any guidance document of the UNHCR. Relying on the different applications of Article 1 F of the 1951 Convention, this article questions whether the proportionality analysis is actually necessary for determining the exclusion, and how should the gravity of the crime be interpreted in such cases. First, the present article argues that the proportionality analysis is compatible with the overriding humanitarian aims of the 1951 Convention and that this analysis should be applicable to all the crimes listed in Article 1 F. Secondly, it demonstrates that the concept of ‘gravity of the crime’ should be interpreted by referring to the relevant concepts developed in international criminal law, and by considering the extent of the person’s individual criminal responsibility. This article asserts that exclusion from refugee status causes serious consequences, which sometimes might be heavier than criminal punishment. Therefore, Article 1 F should be applied with the utmost attention and sensitivity.
How dry is dry? Molecular mobility in relation to thallus water content in a lichen
Authors: Candotto Carniel Fabio , Fernandez-Marín Beatriz , Arc Erwann , Craighero Teresa , Laza José Manuel , Incerti Guido , Tretiach Mauro , Kranner Ilse
Published: October 2020

Lichens can withstand extreme desiccation to water contents of ≤ 0.1 g H2O g–1 DW, and in the desiccated state are among the most extremotolerant organisms known. Desiccation-tolerant life-forms such as seeds, mosses and lichens survive ‘vitrification’, that is the transition of their cytoplasm to a ‘glassy’ state, which causes metabolism to cease. However, our understanding of the mechanisms of desiccation tolerance is hindered by poor knowledge of what reactions occur in the desiccated state. Using Flavoparmelia caperata as a model lichen, we determined at what water contents vitrification occurred upon desiccation. Molecular mobility was assessed by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, and the de- and re-epoxidation of the xanthophyll cycle pigments (measured by HPLC) was used as a proxy to assess enzyme activity. At 20 °C vitrification occurred between 0.12–0.08 g H2O g−1 DW and enzymes were active in a ‘rubbery’ state (0.17 g H2O g−1 DW) but not in a glassy state (0.03 g H2O g−1 DW). Therefore, desiccated tissues may appear to be ‘dry’ in the conventional sense, but subtle differences in water content will have substantial consequences on the types of (bio)chemical reactions that can occur, with downstream effects on longevity in the desiccated state.
The impact of a minimum wage change on the distribution of wages and household income
Authors: Redmond Paul , Doorley Karina , McGuinness Seamus
Published: October 2020

We use distribution regression analysis to study the impact of a 6% increase in the Irish minimum wage on the distribution of hourly wages and household income. Wage inequality, measured by the ratio of wages in the 90th and 10th percentiles and the 75th and 25th percentiles, decreased by approximately 8 and 4%, respectively. The results point towards wage spillover effects up to the 30th percentile of the wage distribution. We show that minimum wage workers are spread throughout the household income distribution and are often located in high-income households. Therefore, while we observe strong effects on the wage distribution, the impact of a minimum wage increase on the household income distribution is quite limited.
Overt and Covert Object Features Mediate Timing of Patterned Brain Activity during Motor Planning
Authors: Marneweck Michelle , Grafton Scott T
Published: October 2020

Humans are seamless in their ability to efficiently and reliably generate fingertip forces to gracefully interact with objects. Such interactions rarely end in awkward outcomes like spilling, crushing, or tilting given advanced motor planning. Here we combine multiband imaging with deconvolution- and Bayesian pattern component modeling of functional magnetic resonance imaging data and in-scanner kinematics, revealing compelling evidence that the human brain differentially represents preparatory information for skillful object interactions depending on the saliency of visual cues. Earlier patterned activity was particularly evident in ventral visual processing stream-, but also selectively in dorsal visual processing stream and cerebellum in conditions of heightened uncertainty when an object’s superficial shape was incompatible rather than compatible with a key underlying object feature.
Mental Health Impact of the First Wave of COVID-19 Pandemic on Spanish Healthcare Workers: a Large Cross-sectional Survey
Authors: Alonso Jordi , Vilagut Gemma , Mortier Philippe , Ferrer Montse , Alayo Itxaso , Aragón-Peña Andrés , Aragonès Enric , Campos Mireia , del Cura-González Isabel , Emparanza José I. , Espuga Meritxell , Forjaz M. Joao , Pinto Ana González , Haro Josep M. , Fresneña Nieves López , de Salázar Alma Martínez , Molina Juan D. , Lucas Rafael M. Ortí , Parellada Mara , Pelayo-Terán José Maria , Zapata Aurora Pérez , Pijoan José I. , Plana Nieves , Puig Teresa , Rius Cristina , Rodriguez-Blazquez Carmen , Sanz Ferran , Serra Consol , Kessler Ronald C. , Bruffaerts Ronny , Vieta Eduard , Pérez-Solá Víctor ,   MINDCOVID Working group
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Healthcare workers are vulnerable to adverse mental health impacts of COVID-19. We assessed prevalence of mental disorders and associated factors during the first wave of the pandemic among healthcare professionals in Spain.

Methods

All workers in 18 healthcare institutions (6 AACC) in Spain were invited to a series of online surveys assessing a wide range of individual characteristics, COVID-19 infection status and exposure, and mental health status. Here we report: current mental disorders (Major Depressive Disorder-MDD- [PHQ-8≥10], Generalized Anxiety Disorder-GAD- [GAD-7≥10], Panic attacks, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder –PTSD- [PCL-5≥7]; and Substance Use Disorder –SUD-[CAGE-AID≥2]. Severe disability assessed by the Sheehan Disability Scale was used to identify “disabling” current mental disorders.

Results

9,138 healthcare workers participated. Prevalence of screen-positive disorder: 28.1% MDD; 22.5% GAD, 24.0% Panic; 22.2% PTSD; and 6.2% SUD. Overall 45.7% presented any current and 14.5% any disabling current mental disorder. Healthcare workers with prior lifetime mental disorders had almost twice the prevalence of current disorders than those without. Adjusting for all other variables, odds of any disabling mental disorder were: prior lifetime disorders (TUS: OR=5.74; 95%CI 2.53-13.03; Mood: OR=3.23; 95%CI:2.27-4.60; Anxiety: OR=3.03; 95%CI:2.53-3.62); age category 18-29 years (OR=1.36; 95%CI:1.02-1.82), caring “all of the time” for COVID-19 patients (OR=5.19; 95%CI: 3.61-7.46), female gender (OR=1.58; 95%CI: 1.27-1.96) and having being in quarantine or isolated (OR= 1.60; 95CI:1.31-1.95).

Conclusions

Current mental disorders were very frequent among Spanish healthcare workers during the first wave of COVID-19. As the pandemic enters its second wave, careful monitoring and support is needed for healthcare workers, especially those with previous mental disorders and those caring COVID-19 very often.
A Machine Learning Study of 534,023 Medicare Beneficiaries with COVID-19: Implications for Personalized Risk Prediction
Authors: Dun Chen , Walsh Christi M. , Bae Sunjae , Adalja Amesh , Toner Eric , Lash Timothy A. , Hashim Farah , Paturzo Joseph , Segev Dorry L. , Makary Martin A.
Published: October 2020

Background

Global demand for a COVID-19 vaccine will exceed the initial limited supply. Identifying individuals at highest risk of COVID-19 death may help allocation prioritization efforts. Personalized risk prediction that uses a broad range of comorbidities requires a cohort size larger than that reported in prior studies.

Methods

Medicare claims data was used to identify patients age 65 years or older with diagnosis of COVID-19 between April 1, 2020 and August 31, 2020. Demographic characteristics, chronic medical conditions, and other patient risk factors that existed before the advent of COVID-19 were identified. A random forest model was used to empirically explore factors associated with COVID-19 death. The independent impact of factors identified were quantified using multivariate logistic regression with random effects.

Results

We identified 534,023 COVID-19 patients of whom 38,066 had an inpatient death. Demographic characteristics associated with COVID-19 death included advanced age (85 years or older: aOR: 2.07; 95% CI, 1.99-2.16), male sex (aOR, 1.88; 95% CI, 1.82-1.94), and non-white race (Hispanic: aOR, 1.74; 95% CI, 1.66-1.83). Leading comorbidities associated with COVID-19 mortality included sickle cell disease (aOR, 1.73; 95% CI, 1.21-2.47), chronic kidney disease (aOR, 1.32; 95% CI, 1.29-1.36), leukemias and lymphomas (aOR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.14-1.30), heart failure (aOR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.16-1.22), and diabetes (aOR, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.15-1.22).

Conclusions

We created a personalized risk prediction calculator to identify candidates for early vaccine and therapeutics allocation (www.predictcovidrisk.com). These findings may be used to protect those at greatest risk of death from COVID-19.
Anakinra To Prevent Respiratory Failure In COVID-19
Authors: Kyriazopoulou Evdoxia , Panagopoulos Periklis , Metallidis Simeon , Dalekos George N. , Poulakou Garyfallia , Gatselis Nikolaos , Karakike Eleni , Saridaki Maria , Loli Georgia , Stefos Aggelos , Prasianaki Danai , Georgiadou Sarah , Tsachouridou Olga , Petrakis Vasileios , Tsiakos Konstantinos , Kosmidou Maria , Lygoura Vassiliki , Dareioti Maria , Milionis Haralampos , Papanikolaou Ilias C. , Akinosoglou Karolina , Myrodia Dimitra-Melia , Gravvani Areti , Stamou Aliki , Gkavogianni Theologia , Katrini Konstantina , Marantos Theodoros , Trontzas Ioannis P. , Syrigos Konstantinos , Chatzis Loukas , Chatzis Stamatios , Vechlidis Nikolaos , Avgoustou Christina , Chalvatzis Stamatios , Kyprianou Miltiades , van der Meer Jos W. M. , Eugen-Olsen Jesper , Netea Mihai G. , Giamarellos-Bourboulis Evangelos J.
Published: October 2020

Introduction

The management of pneumonia caused by SARS-CoV-2 should rely on early recognition of the risk for progression to severe respiratory failure (SRF) and its prevention. We investigated if early suPAR (soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor)-guided anakinra treatment could prevent COVID-19-assocated SRF.

Methods

In this open-label prospective trial, 130 patients admitted with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia SARS-CoV-2 and suPAR levels ≥6 μg/l were assigned to subcutaneous anakinra 100mg once daily for 10 days. The primary outcome was the incidence of SRF at day 14. Secondary outcomes were 30-day mortality, changes in sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score, of cytokine-stimulation pattern and of circulating inflammatory mediators. Equal number of propensity score-matched comparators for comorbidities, severity on admission and standard-of care (SOC) were studied.

Results

The incidence of SRF was 22.3% (95% CI, 16.0-30.2%) among anakinra-treated patients and 59.2% (95% CI, 50.6-67.3%; P: 4.6 x 10−8) among SOC comparators (hazard ratio, 0.30; 95%CI, 0.20-0.46). 30-day mortality was 11.5% (95% CI, 7.1-18.2%) and 22.3% (95% CI, 16.0-30.2%) respectively (hazard ratio 0.49; 95% CI 0.25-0.97%; P: 0.041). Anakinra treatment was associated with decrease in SOFA score and in circulating interleukin (IL)-6, sCD163 and sIL2-R; the serum IL-10/IL-6 ratio on day 7 was inversely associated with the change in SOFA score. Duration of stay at the intensive care unit and at hospital was shortened compared to the SOC group; the cost of hospitalization was decreased.

Conclusions

Early suPAR-guided anakinra treatment is associated with decrease of the risk for SRF and restoration of the pro- /anti-inflammatory balance.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04357366
Anaemic women are more at risk of injectable contraceptive discontinuation due to side-effects in Ethiopia
Authors: Stevens Rose , Malbos Blandine , Gurmu Eshetu , Riou Jérémie , Alvergne Alexandra
Published: October 2020

Introduction

This paper investigates the importance of women’s physiological condition for predicting the risk of discontinuation due to side-effects of the injectable contraceptive in Ethiopia, where side-effects account for around 20% of all discontinuations.

Methods

Contraceptive calendar data from the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey were analysed. Women aged 15-49 who had initiated the injectable contraceptive in the two years prior to interview were included in the analysis (N=1,513). After checking for reverse causality, the associations between physiological risk factors and discontinuation of the injectable contraceptive due to either side-effects (DSE) or other reasons (DOR) were estimated using multivariate Cox proportional regression analyses.

Results

In 2016, 10% of women had initiated the injectable in the last two years, and 1 in 4 had discontinued use by the time of the interview. Of these, 1 in 5 discontinued due to side-effects. Women with anaemia were at twice the risk of DSE compared with non-anaemic women, while anaemia status was not associated with DOR. The association between anaemia and experience of side-effects is likely driven by iron-deficiency anaemia, as having taken iron supplements during last pregnancy is found to decrease the risk of DSE. Sociocultural factors including religion, wealth and relationship status were significant predictors for DOR, but not for DSE.

Conclusion

Accounting for diversity in physiological condition is key for understanding contraceptive discontinuation due to side-effects. To reduce side-effects and thereby unmet need for contraception, family planning programs may benefit from providing an integrated service package addressing anaemia as well as supplying hormonal contraception.
Pseudomonas aeruginosaandCandida albicansboth accumulate greater biomass in dual species biofilms under flow
Authors: Kasetty Swetha , Mould Dallas L. , Hogan Deborah A. , Nadell Carey D.
Published: October 2020

Spatially structured communities of microbes – biofilms – are widespread in nature, and biofilm-dwelling microbes often respond to their environments in ways that are different from their planktonic counterparts. Further, most natural biofilms are multi-species mixtures of microorganisms; the ecology of intra- and inter-species interactions in these consortia, and the resulting effects on total community properties, are often not well understood. A common site of polymicrobial biofilm infections is the lungs of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). CF is a genetic disorder in humans that leads to colonization of the lungs by a variety of microorganisms, includingPseudomonas aeruginosaandCandida albicans.These opportunistic pathogens are frequently co-isolated from infected lungs, in addition to other infection sites including urinary and intravenous catheters. To study how these microbes behave together in biofilms, we developed a modified artificial sputum medium that is optically clear for use with microfluidic culture. In addition, we engineered strains with optimized fluorescent protein expression constructs allowing for single-cell resolution confocal microscopy. Using these tools and recently developed methods for spatial analysis of 3-D image data, we found that bothP. aeruginosaandC. albicansdisplay increased biovolume accumulation in multi-species biofilms relative to single-species biofilms. This pattern did not occur in planktonic co-culture and was thus specific to the biofilm environment. Interestingly, introduction ofP. aeruginosasupernatants over dual-species biofilms strongly reducedC. albicansbiovolume. This suggests that products that accumulate in batch culture were still inhibitory toC. albicansunder a flow regime, but that they theirde novoproduction in mixed species biofilms was not sufficient to inhibitC. albicansbiofilm accumulation. Altogether our results indicate a critical impact of flow environment for the outcome of polymicrobial interactions and the need for high-resolution analysis of such communities in future work.
Possible functions of the conserved peptide encoded by the RNA-precursor of miR-156a in plants of the familyBrassicaceae
Authors: Erokhina T.N. , Ryazantsev D.Y. , Samochvalova L.V. , Orsa A.N. , Zavriev S.K. , Morozov S.Y.
Published: October 2020

Recent studies have shown that the primary transcripts of some microRNA genes (pri-miRNAs) are able to express short proteins (peptides) ranging usually from 12-15 amino acid residues to around 30 residues in length. These peptides, called miPEPs, may participate in the regulation of transcription of their own pri-miRNAs. Using bioinformatic comparative analysis of pri-miRNA sequences in plant genomes, we previously discovered a new group of miPEPs (miPEP-156a), which is encoded by pri-miR156a in several dozen species from theBrassicaceaefamily. Exogenous peptides miPEP-156a can effectively penetrate plant seedlings through the root system and spread systemically to the leaves of young seedlings. At the same time, a moderate morphological effect is observed, which consists in accelerated growth of the main root of the seedling. In parallel, a positive effect is observed at the level of pri-miR156a expression. It is important that the effects at the morphological and molecular levels are seemingly related to the ability of the peptide to quickly transfer into the cell nuclei and bind to nuclear chromatin. In this work, the secondary structure of the peptide was also experimentally established, and changes in this structure in the complex with DNA were shown.
Transient systemic inflammation in adult male mice results in underweight progeny
Authors: Rokade Sushama , Upadhya Manoj , Bhat Dattatray S. , Subhedar Nishikant , Yajnik Chittaranjan S. , Ghose Aurnab , Rath Satyajit , Bal Vineeta
Published: October 2020

Problem

While the testes represent animmune privilegedorgan, there is evidence that systemic inflammation is accompanied by local inflammatory responses. We therefore examined if transient systemic inflammation caused any inflammatory and functional consequences in murine testes.

Method of Study

Using a single systemic administration of Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists [lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or peptidoglycan (PG) or polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (polyIC)] in young adult male mice, we assessed testicular immune-inflammatory landscape and reproductive functionality.

Results

Our findings demonstrated a significant induction of testicular TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 transcripts within 24 h of TLR agonist injection. By day 6 these cytokine levels returned to baseline. While there was no change in caudal sperm counts at early time points, eight weeks later, two-fold decrease of sperm count and reduced testicular testosterone levels was evident. When these mice were subjected to mating studies, no differences in mating efficiencies or litter sizes were observed compared to controls. Nonetheless, the neonatal weights of progeny from LPS/PG/polyIC treated sires were significantly lower than controls. Postnatal weight gain up to three weeks was also slower in the progeny of LPS/polyIC treated sires. Placental weights at 17.5 days post-coitum were significantly lower in females mated to LPS and polyIC treated males. Given this likelihood of an epigenetic effect, we found lower testicular levels of histone methyl-transferase enzyme, mixed-lineage leukemia-1, in mice given LPS/PG/polyIC eight weeks earlier.

Conclusion

Exposure to transient systemic inflammation leads to transient local inflammation in the testes, with persistent sperm-mediated consequences for fetal development.
Subjective time is predicted by local and early visual processing
Authors: Tonoyan Yelena , Fornaciai Michele , Parsons Brent , Bueti Domenica
Published: October 2020

Time is as pervasive as it is elusive to study, and how the brain keeps track of millisecond time is still unclear. Here we studied the mechanisms underlying duration perception by looking for a neural signature of subjective time distortion induced by motion adaptation. We recorded electroencephalographic signals in human participants while they were asked to discriminate the duration of visual stimuli after translational motion adaptation. Our results show that distortions of subjective time can be predicted by the amplitude of the N200 event-related potential and by the activity in the Beta band frequency spectrum. Both effects were observed from occipital electrodes contralateral to the adapted stimulus. Finally, a multivariate decoding analysis highlights the impact of motion adaptation throughout the visual stream. Overall, our findings show the crucial involvement of local and low-level perceptual processes in generating a subjective sense of time.