bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health reference intervals and values for common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus), Pacific white-sided dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens), and beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas)
Authors: Lauderdale Lisa K. , Walsh Michael T. , Mitchell Kevin A. , Granger Douglas A. , Mellen Jill D. , Miller Lance J.
Published: August 2021

This study reports comprehensive clinical pathology data for hematology, serum, and plasma biochemistry reference intervals for 174 apparently healthy common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and reference values for 27 Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus), 13 beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas), and 6 Pacific white-sided dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens) in zoos and aquariums accredited by the Alliance for Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums and the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. Blood samples were collected as part of a larger study titled “Towards understanding the welfare of cetaceans in zoos and aquariums” (colloquially called the Cetacean Welfare Study). Two blood samples were collected following a standardized protocol, and two veterinarian examinations were conducted approximately six months apart between July to November 2018 and January to April 2019. Least square means, standard deviations, and 95% confidence intervals were calculated for hematology, serum, and plasma biochemical variables. Comparisons by age, gender, and month revealed statistically significant differences (p < 0.01) for several variables. Reference intervals and values were generated for samples tested at two laboratories for up to 56 hematologic, serum, and plasma biochemical variables. To apply these data, ZooPhysioTrak, an iOS mobile software application, was developed to provide a new resource for cetacean management. ZooPhysioTrak provides species-specific reference intervals and values based on user inputs of individual demographic and sample information. These data provide a baseline from which to compare hematological, serum, and plasma biochemical values in cetaceans in zoos and aquariums.
Habitat characteristics and animal management factors associated with habitat use by bottlenose dolphins in zoological environments
Authors: Lauderdale Lisa K. , Shorter K. Alex , Zhang Ding , Gabaldon Joaquin , Mellen Jill D. , Walsh Michael T. , Granger Douglas A. , Miller Lance J.
Published: August 2021

The way an animal uses its habitat can serve as an indicator of habitat appropriateness for the species and individuals. Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatusandTursiops aduncus) in accredited zoos and aquariums experience a range of habitat types and management programs that provide opportunities for dolphins to engage in species-appropriate behaviors and potentially influence their individual and group welfare. Data in the present study were collected as part of a larger study titled “Towards understanding the welfare of cetaceans in zoos and aquariums” (colloquially called the Cetacean Welfare Study). Non-invasive bio-logging devices (Movement Tags) recorded the diving behavior and vertical habitat movements of 60 bottlenose dolphins at 31 zoos and aquariums that were accredited by the Alliance for Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums and/or the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. Bottlenose dolphins wore a Movement Tag one day per week for two five-week data collection periods. Demographic variables, environmental enrichment programs, training programs, and habitat characteristics were associated with habitat usage. Longer dive durations and use of the bottom third of the habitat were associated with higher enrichment program index values. Dolphins receiving new enrichment on a monthly/weekly schedule also used the bottom third of the habitat more often than those receiving new enrichment on a yearly/year+ schedule. Dolphins that were managed in a group that was split into smaller subgroups during the day and were reunited into one group at night spent less time in the top third of the habitat than those who remained in a single group with consistent members at all times. Dolphins that were managed as subgroups with rotating members but were never united as one group spent less time in the bottom third of the habitat than those who remained in a single group with consistent members at all times. Taken together, the results suggested that management practices, such as enrichment and training programs, played a greater role in how dolphins interacted with their environment relative to the physical characteristics of the habitat.
Behavioral diversity as a potential positive indicator of animal welfare in bottlenose dolphins
Authors: Miller Lance J. , Lauderdale Lisa K. , Bryant Jocelyn L. , Mellen Jill D. , Walsh Michael T. , Granger Douglas A.
Published: August 2021

Accredited zoological facilities are committed to fully understanding the behavioral, mental, and physical needs of each species to continuously improve the welfare of the animals under their professional care and detect when welfare has diminished. In order to accomplish this goal, internally consistent and externally valid indicators of animal welfare are necessary to advance our understanding of the current welfare status of individual animals. Historically, efforts have focused on monitoring visible or observable signs of poor health or problem behavior, but lack of signs or problems does not necessarily demonstrate that an individual animal is thriving. The current study examined fecal hormone metabolite levels and behavior for two species of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatusandTursiops aduncus) from 25 different accredited zoological facilities. At the time of the study, all facilities were accredited by the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums and/or the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. This was part of the multi-institutional study ‘Towards understanding of the welfare of cetaceans in zoos and aquariums” commonly referred to as the Cetacean Welfare Study. Behavioral diversity was calculated using the Shannon Diversity Index on species-appropriate behavioral events. Behavioral diversity was compared to the fecal metabolites of cortisol, aldosterone, and the ratio of cortisol to dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) as well as the stereotypic behavior of route tracing. Similar to previous studies on other species, there was a significant inverse relationship between behavioral diversity and both fecal cortisol metabolites and route tracing. Additionally, a significant inverse relationship also exists between behavioral diversity and the ratio of fecal cortisol to DHEA metabolites. Behavioral diversity and fecal aldosterone metabolites were not associated. Additional research is still needed to validate behavioral diversity as an indicator of positive animal welfare for bottlenose dolphins and across species. However, based on current results, facilities could utilize behavioral diversity combined with other measures of welfare to more comprehensively evaluate the welfare of bottlenose dolphins.
Towards understanding the welfare of cetaceans in accredited zoos and aquariums
Authors: Lauderdale Lisa K. , Mellen Jill D. , Walsh Michael T. , Granger Douglas A. , Miller Lance J.
Published: August 2021

Cetaceans are long-lived, social species that are valued as ambassadors inspiring the public to engage in conservation action. Under professional care, they are critical partners with the scientific community to understanding the biology, behavior, physiology, health, and welfare requirements of this taxonomic group. The Cetacean Welfare Study was a highly collaborative research effort among zoos and aquariums accredited by the Alliance for Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums and/or the Association of Zoos & Aquariums that provided important empirical and comparative information on the care and management of cetaceans. The goal was to identify factors that were related to the welfare of bottlenose dolphins and to develop reference intervals and values for common and novel indicators of health and welfare for common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus), beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas), and Pacific white-sided dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens). Data were collected from cetaceans at 43 accredited zoos and aquariums in seven countries in 2018 and 2019. This overview presents a summary of findings from the initial research articles that resulted from the study titled “Towards understanding the welfare of cetaceans in zoos and aquariums.” With multiple related objectives, animal-based metrics were used to advance frameworks of clinical care and target key conditions that were associated with good welfare of cetaceans in zoo and aquarium environments. As a result of this collaboration, species-specific reference intervals and values for blood variables and fecal hormone metabolites were developed and are freely available in an iOS application called ZooPhysioTrak. The results suggested that environmental enrichment programs and social management factors were more strongly related to behaviors likely indicative of positive welfare than habitat characteristics for common and Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins. These findings can be widely applied to optimize care and future science-based welfare practice.
Prevalence of antibodies against seasonal influenza A and B viruses among older adults in rural Thailand: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Suntronwong Nungruthai , Vichaiwattana Preeyaporn , Wongsrisang Lakkhana , Klinfueng Sirapa , Korkong Sumeth , Thongmee Thanunrat , Wanlapakorn Nasamon , Poovorawan Yong
Published: August 2021

Assessing the seroprevalence of the high-risk individuals against the influenza virus is essential to evaluate the progress of vaccine implementation programs and establish influenza virus interventions. Herein, we identified the pre-existing cross-protection of the circulating seasonal influenza viruses among the older-aged population. A cross-sectional study was performed base on the 176 residual sera samples collected from older adults aged 60 to 95 years without a history of vaccination in rural Thailand in 2015. Sera antibody titers against influenza A and B viruses circulating between 2016 and 2019 were determined by hemagglutination inhibition assay. These findings indicated the low titers of pre-existing antibodies to circulating influenza subtypes and showed age-independent antibody titers among the old adults. Moderate seropositive rates (HAI ≥ 1:40) were observed in influenza A viruses (65.9%A(H3N2), 50.0% for A(H1N1) pdm09), and found comparatively lower rates in influenza B viruses (14% B/Yam2, 21% B/Yam3 and 25% B/Vic). Only 5% of individuals possessed broadly protective antibodies against both seasonal influenza A and B virus in this region. Our findings highlighted the low pre-existing antibodies to circulating influenza strains in the following season observed in older adults. The serological study will help inform policy-makers for health care planning and guide control measures concerning vaccination programs.
Determination of specific life changes on psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Kabasawa Keiko , Tanaka Junta , Komata Tomoyo , Matsui Katsuhiro , Nakamura Kazutoshi , Ito Yumi , Narita Ichiei
Published: August 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic might affect many aspects of the community and a range of psychiatric risk factors due to life changes, including people’s behaviors and perceptions. In this study, we aim to identify specific life changes that correlate with psychological distress within the social context of the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan. In July 2020, workers (company employees and civil servants) in Japan were recruited from local institutions that had not had any confirmed COVID-19 cases as well as neighborhoods that had only a few cases. Participants completed a COVID-19 mental health survey (N = 609; 66.9% male). Psychological distress was identified based on Kessler-6 scores (≥13). Life changes were assessed by an open-ended question about life changes in participants and their family, workplace, and community due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A convergent mixed-method approach was used to compare the context of perceived life changes in participants with psychological distress and those without. As a result, 8.9% of participants had psychological distress, and sex and age categories were different between those with psychological distress and those without. Among the participants who responded to the open-ended question, the biggest life change was “staying at home,” and the next biggest life changes were “event cancellations” and “increased workload” in participants with psychological distress, and “no changes” and “mask-wearing” in those without psychological distress, respectively. Regarding emotional/perceptual changes, “stress,” “fear,” and “anger” were more frequently reported by participants with psychological distress than those without (P <0.001). By integrating these findings, we identified themes focusing on vulnerable characteristics related to psychological distress. This study may provide a source in society for mediating psychological distress during a pandemic.
Evidence for an increase in cannabis use in Iran – A systematic review and trend analysis
Authors: Rostam-Abadi Yasna , Gholami Jaleh , Amin-Esmaeili Masoumeh , Baheshmat Shahab , Hamzehzadeh Marziyeh , Rafiemanesh Hossein , Nasserbakht Morteza , Ghalichi Leila , Safarcherati Anousheh , Taremian Farhad , Mojtabai Ramin , Rahimi-Movaghar Afarin
Published: August 2021

Background and aims

Cannabis is the most widely used illicit substance globally. In this systematic review, we examined the prevalence and trends of cannabis use and cannabis use disorder in Iran.

Methods

We searched International and Iranian databases up to March 2021. Pooled prevalence of use among sex subgroups of the general population, university and high school students, combined youth groups, and high-risk groups was estimated through random-effects model. Trends of various use indicators and national seizures were examined.

Results

Ninety studies were included. The prevalence estimates of last 12-month cannabis use were 1.3% (95%CI: 0.1–3.6) and 0.2% (95%CI: 0.1–0.3) among the male and female Iranian general population, respectively. The prevalence of cannabis use disorder among general population in national studies rose from 0% in 2001 to 0.5% in 2011. In the 2016–2020 period, the pooled prevalence estimates of last 12-month cannabis use were 4.9% (95% CI: 3.4–6.7) and 0.3% (95% CI: 0.0–1.3) among males and females of “combined youth groups”, respectively. The linear trend of last 12-month cannabis use among males of "combined youth groups" and among female university students increased significantly from 2000 to 2020.

Conclusions

Prevalence of cannabis use in Iran is low compared to many countries. However, there is strong evidence of an increase in cannabis use among the youth and some evidence for an increase in cannabis use disorder.
Receiver phase alignment using fitted SVD derived sensitivities from routine prescans
Authors: Stanley Olivia W. , Menon Ravi S. , Klassen L. Martyn
Published: August 2021

Magnetic resonance imaging radio frequency arrays are composed of multiple receive coils that have their signals combined to form an image. Combination requires an estimate of the radio frequency coil sensitivities to align signal phases and prevent destructive interference. At lower fields this can be accomplished using a uniform physical reference coil. However, at higher fields, uniform volume coils are lacking and, when available, suffer from regions of low receive sensitivity that result in poor sensitivity estimation and combination. Several approaches exist that do not require a physical reference coil but require manual intervention, specific prescans, or must be completed post-acquisition. This makes these methods impractical for large multi-volume datasets such as those collected for novel types of functional MRI or quantitative susceptibility mapping, where magnitude and phase are important. This pilot study proposes a fitted SVD method which utilizes existing combination methods to create a phase sensitive combination method targeted at large multi-volume datasets. This method uses any multi-image prescan to calculate the relative receive sensitivities using voxel-wise singular value decomposition. These relative sensitivities are fitted to the solid harmonics using an iterative least squares fitting algorithm. Fits of the relative sensitivities are used to align the phases of the receive coils and improve combination in subsequent acquisitions during the imaging session. This method is compared against existing approaches in the human brain at 7 Tesla by examining the combined data for the presence of singularities and changes in phase signal-to-noise ratio. Two additional applications of the method are also explored, using the fitted SVD method in an asymmetrical coil and in a case with subject motion. The fitted SVD method produces singularity-free images and recovers between 95–100% of the phase signal-to-noise ratio depending on the prescan data resolution. Using solid harmonic fitting to interpolate singular value decomposition derived receive sensitivities from existing prescans allows the fitted SVD method to be used on all acquisitions within a session without increasing exam duration. Our fitted SVD method is able to combine imaging datasets accurately without supervision during online reconstruction.
Switching perception of musical meters by listening to different acoustic cues of biphasic sound stimulus
Authors: Kondoh Sotaro , Okanoya Kazuo , Tachibana Ryosuke O.
Published: August 2021

Meter is one of the core features of music perception. It is the cognitive grouping of regular sound sequences, typically for every 2, 3, or 4 beats. Previous studies have suggested that one can not only passively perceive the meter from acoustic cues such as loudness, pitch, and duration of sound elements, but also actively perceive it by paying attention to isochronous sound events without any acoustic cues. Studying the interaction of top-down and bottom-up processing in meter perception leads to understanding the cognitive system’s ability to perceive the entire structure of music. The present study aimed to demonstrate that meter perception requires the top-down process (which maintains and switches attention between cues) as well as the bottom-up process for discriminating acoustic cues. We created a “biphasic” sound stimulus, which consists of successive tone sequences designed to provide cues for both the triple and quadruple meters in different sound attributes, frequency, and duration. Participants were asked to focus on either frequency or duration of the stimulus, and to answer how they perceived meters on a five-point scale (ranged from “strongly triple” to “strongly quadruple”). As a result, we found that participants perceived different meters by switching their attention to specific cues. This result adds evidence to the idea that meter perception involves the interaction between top-down and bottom-up processes.
An experimental comparison of different hierarchical self-tuning regulatory control procedures for under-actuated mechatronic systems
Authors: Saleem Omer , Mahmood-ul-Hasan Khalid , Rizwan Mohsin
Published: August 2021

This paper presents an experimental comparison of four different hierarchical self-tuning regulatory control procedures in enhancing the robustness of the under-actuated systems against bounded exogenous disturbances. The proposed hierarchical control procedure augments the ubiquitous Linear-Quadratic-Regulator (LQR) with an online reconfiguration block that acts as a superior regulator to dynamically adjust the critical weighting-factors of LQR’s quadratic-performance-index (QPI). The Algebraic-Riccati-Equation (ARE) uses these updated weighting-factors to re-compute the optimal control problem, after every sampling interval, to deliver time-varying state-feedback gains. This article experimentally compares four state-of-the-art rule-based online adaptation mechanisms that dynamically restructure the constituent blocks of the ARE. The proposed hierarchical control procedures are synthesized by self-adjusting the (i) controller’s degree-of-stability, (ii) the control-weighting-factor of QPI, (iii) the state-weighting-factors of QPI as a function of “state-error-phases”, and (iv) the state-weighting-factors of QPI as a function of “state-error-magnitudes”. Each adaptation mechanism is formulated via pre-calibrated hyperbolic scaling functions that are driven by state-error-variations. The implications of each mechanism on the controller’s behaviour are analyzed in real-time by conducting credible hardware-in-the-loop experiments on the QNET Rotary-Pendulum setup. The rotary pendulum is chosen as the benchmark platform owing to its under-actuated configuration and kinematic instability. The experimental outcomes indicate that the latter self-adaptive controller demonstrates superior adaptability and disturbances-rejection capability throughout the operating regime.
Restrictive versus liberal transfusion thresholds in very low birth weight infants: A systematic review with meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Peng , Wang Xing , Deng Haidong , Li Linjie , Chong Weelic , Hai Yang , Zhang Yu
Published: August 2021

Background

To assess the efficacy and safety of restrictive versus liberal red blood cell transfusion thresholds in very low birth weight infants.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane database without any language restrictions. The last search was conducted in August 15, 2020. All randomized controlled trials comparing the use of restrictive versus liberal red blood cell transfusion thresholds in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants were selected. Pooled risk ratio (RR) for dichotomous variable with 95% confidence intervals were assessed by a random-effects model. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality.

Results

Overall, this meta-analysis included 6 randomized controlled trials comprising 3,483 participants. Restrictive transfusion does not increase the risk of all-cause mortality (RR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.84 to 1.17; I2 = 0%; high-quality evidence), and does not increase the composite outcome of death or neurodevelopmental impairment (RR, 1.01, 95% CI, 0.93–1.09; I2 = 7%; high-quality evidence) or other serious adverse events. Results were similar in subgroup analyses of all-cause mortality by weight of infants, gestational age, male infants, and transfusion volume.

Conclusions

In very low birth weight infants, a restrictive threshold for red blood cell transfusion was not associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality, in either short term or long term.
Seed dressing with mefenpyr-diethyl as a safener for mesosulfuron-methyl application in wheat: The evaluation and mechanisms
Authors: Yuan Libing , Ma Guangyuan , Geng Yaling , Liu Xiaomin , Wang Hua , Li Jian , Song Shanshan , Pan Wenliang , Hun Zhiying
Published: August 2021

Mesosulfuron-methyl is always applied by foliar spraying in combination with the safener mefenpyr-diethyl to avoid phytotoxicity on wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) cultivars. However, it was observed that the tolerance of Tausch’s goatgrass (Aegilops tauschiiCoss.) to mesosulfuron-methyl significantly increased in the presence of mefenpyr-diethyl by performing bioassay. This confirmed phenomenon may lead to overuse of mesosulfuron-methyl and weed resistance evolution in field conditions. Therefore, we tested the effect of wheat seed dressing with mefenpyr-diethyl as a possible alternative and disclosed the underlying mechanisms by herbicide dissipation study, enzymatic analysis and transcriptome profiling. The results suggest that increase of ALS activity, enhancement of metabolic processes, and other stress responses are crucial for the regulation of herbicide detoxification induced by mefenpyr-diethyl. Additionally, transcription factors such asAP2/ERF-ERF,bHLH,NAC, andMYB, and protein kinase such as RLK-Pelle_DLSV might play vital regulatory roles. The current study has important implications for mesosulfuron-methyl application in wheat field to control Tausch’s goatgrass and provides a comprehensive understanding of the protective effect of mefenpyr-diethyl.
The register shift rules for βαβ-motifs for de novo protein design
Authors: Murata Hiroto , Imakawa Hayao , Koga Nobuyasu , Chikenji George
Published: August 2021

A wide range of de novo design of αβ-proteins has been achieved based on the design rules, which describe secondary structure lengths and loop torsion patterns favorable for design target topologies. This paper proposes design rules for register shifts in βαβ-motifs, which have not been reported previously, but are necessary for determining a target structure of de novo design of αβ-proteins. By analyzing naturally occurring protein structures in a database, we found preferences for register shifts in βαβ-motifs, and derived the following empirical rules: (1) register shifts must not be negative regardless of torsion types for a constituent loop in βαβ-motifs; (2) preferred register shifts strongly depend on the loop torsion types. To explain these empirical rules by physical interactions, we conducted physics-based simulations for systems mimicking a βαβ-motif that contains the most frequently observed loop type in the database. We performed an exhaustive conformational sampling of the loop region, imposing the exclusion volume and hydrogen bond satisfaction condition. The distributions of register shifts obtained from the simulations agreed well with those of the database analysis, indicating that the empirical rules are a consequence of physical interactions, rather than an evolutionary sampling bias. Our proposed design rules will serve as a guide to making appropriate target structures for the de novo design of αβ-proteins.
A kinase-independent function of PAK is crucial for pathogen-mediated actin remodelling
Authors: Davidson Anthony , Tyler Joe , Hume Peter , Singh Vikash , Koronakis Vassilis
Published: August 2021

The p21-activated kinase (PAK) family regulate a multitude of cellular processes, including actin cytoskeleton remodelling. Numerous bacterial pathogens usurp host signalling pathways that regulate actin reorganisation in order to promote Infection.Salmonellaand pathogenicEscherichia colidrive actin-dependent forced uptake and intimate attachment respectively. We demonstrate that the pathogen-driven generation of both these distinct actin structures relies on the recruitment and activation of PAK. We show that the PAK kinase domain is dispensable for this actin remodelling, which instead requires the GTPase-binding CRIB and the central poly-proline rich region. PAK interacts with and inhibits the guanine nucleotide exchange factor β-PIX, preventing it from exerting a negative effect on cytoskeleton reorganisation. This kinase-independent function of PAK may be usurped by other pathogens that modify host cytoskeleton signalling and helps us better understand how PAK functions in normal and diseased eukaryotic cells.
Inovasi Produk Pakan Sapi Potong Berbasis Bakteri Asam Laktat untuk Mendukung Usaha Peternakan Nasional
Authors:   Research Center for Biotechnology, Indonesian Institutes Of Science, Widyastuti Yantyati
Published: August 2021

Budi daya sapi potong sangat tergantung pada ketersediaan pakan, di mana biaya pakan mencapai 70% pada tata kelola pemeliharaan ternak. Secara global, budi daya sapi potong telah mengalami perubahan, terutama pada manajemen pemberian pakannya. Pada dasarnya, pakan yang dikonsumsi ditujukan untuk memenuhi kebutuhan hidup pokok dan produktivitasnya. Oleh karena itu, strategi global pada pemberian pakan telah diupayakan juga untuk dapat menurunkan produksi gas metana. Salah satu pendekatan yang telah dilakukan adalah menggunakan bakteri asam laktat yang memproduksi asam laktat dan berperan pada fermentasi pakan, serta memengaruhi keseimbangan mikroorganisme pada saluran pencernaan. Dengan konsep yang serupa, yaitu dengan pengaruh probiotik pada kesehatan manu-sia5 maka bakteri asam laktat juga dapat menyehatkan ternak. Peran bakteri asam laktat untuk menurunkan produksi gas metana merupakan konsep global inovasi. Mendukung upaya untuk meningkatkan produktivitas sapi potong maka serangkaian riset mengenai pengembangan pakan sapi potong yang mengandung bakteri asam laktat telah dilakukan di Pusat Penelitian Bioteknologi. Dengan bekal ilmu nutrisi ternak dari pendidikan S1, ditambah dengan mikrobiologi rumen yang diperoleh melalui training Bioteknologi pada awal karier sebagai peneliti, dan ilmu yang diperoleh dari pendidikan S3, telah menjadikan bekal awal yang cukup untuk menjadi peneliti. Kesempatan mengikuti post doc juga telah menambah pengalaman yang sangat berharga untuk dikembangkan di tanah air. Selain itu, berbagai kerja sama riset bidang mikrobiologi juga telah memberikan tambahan ilmu dan pengalaman untuk mampu melakukan riset pakan berbasis bakteri asam laktat bersama tim.
How Teachers use Formative Assessment Strategies during Teaching: Evidence from the Classroom
Authors:   The University of the South Pacific, Dayal Hem
Published: August 2021

Using lesson observations, the study reported in this article explores how two practising secondary mathematics teachers implemented formative assessment actions in their classroom teaching. The study also investigated whether teachers’ beliefs about teaching and assessment could be mapped onto their classroom practices. In particular, while the two teachers were implementing student portfolio assessment in their own Year 9 mathematics lessons, the classroom observations focused on how they utilised formative assessment actions such as clarifying and sharing learning criteria intentions and criteria for success; activating students as instructional resources; and, providing feedback that moves learners forward. The findings suggest that one of the teachers made better use of formative assessment or assessment for learning actions while the other showed an emerging understanding of such ideas. A holistic analysis of teachers’ actions point to possible links to their beliefs about teaching and assessment. These findings imply that some teachers may hold productive beliefs about teaching and assessment that support the use formative assessment actions more readily. Such productive beliefs provide a useful platform for enacting better assessments inside secondary classrooms, given that there is paucity of research that deals with how secondary teachers make use of formative assessments. The findings implicitly confirm that better use of formative assessment strategies tend to result in more interactive lessons.
The effect of type II toxin-antitoxin systems on methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus persister cell formation and antibiotic tolerance
Authors: Hosseini Mandana , Nowroozi Jamileh , Amirmozafari Nour
Published: August 2021

Persister cells are defi ned as a subpopulation of bacteria in a dormant state with the ability to reduce bacterial metabolism and they are involved in antibiotic tolerance. Toxin-antitoxin (TA) systems have been previously suggested as important players in persistence. Therefore, this study aimed to study the involvement of TA systems in persister cell formation in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus following antibiotic exposure. Using TADB and RASTA database, two type II TA systems including MazF/MazE and RelE/RelB were predicted in S. aureus. The presence of these TA genes was determined in 5 methicillin-resistant S. aureus isolates and the standard strain S. aureus subsp. aureus N315 using PCR method. To induce persistence, isolates were exposed to lethal doses of ciprofl oxacin and the expression of the studied TA system genes was measured after 5 h using Real-Time PCR. According to our results, all the studied isolates harbored the TA system genes. S. aureus was highly capable of persister cell formation following exposure to sub-MIC of ciprofl oxacin and RT-qPCR showed a signifi cant increase in the expression of the MazEF and RelBE loci, indicating their potential role in antibiotic tolerance. Considering the importance of antibiotic tolerance, further studies on persister cell formation and TA systems involved in this phenomenon are required to effi ciently target these systems.
A comparative study on Acorus calamus (Acoraceae) micropropagation and selection of suitable population for cultivation in Iran
Authors: Gholipour Abbas , Kazemitabar Seyed Kamal , Ramzanpour Hamed
Published: August 2021

In addition to various medicinal properties, Acorus calamus (sweet ﬂag) is used in health, food, and perfume industries. Since this species is a rare plant in Iran, its propagation and cultivation are of the great importance. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different plant growth regulators on micropropaga-tion of this plant and to select the appropriate population. The root, the rhizome and the leaf explants of three populations (Arzefon, Pelesk, and Alandan) were cultured on MS medium supplemented with different concentrations of α-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) and 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) for callus induction and plant regeneration. The results showed that only rhizome explant resulted in direct plant regeneration. Among different treatments, the 1 mg/l treatment of BAP and NAA - with the highest mean number of regenerated plants (3.75 ± 0.85), the highest percentage of grown explants (91.6%) and maximum average length of regenerated plants (12.06 ± 0.32 cm) - was the best treatment for regeneration of sweet ﬂag. The highest mean number of root (6.6 ± 0.1) was observed in Alandan population in 1 mg/l treatment of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA). According to the present study, Alandan population is suitable for cultivation purposes in Iran.
A puriﬁed lectin with larvicidal activity from a woodland mushroom, Agaricus semotus Fr.
Authors: Adedoyin Isaiah O. , Adewole Taiwo S. , Agunbiade Titilayo O. , Adewoyin Francis B. , Kuku Adenike
Published: August 2021

This study investigated the larvicidal activity on Culex quinquefasciatus of lectin purified from fresh fruiting bodies of woodland mushroom, Agaricus semotus. A. semotus lectin (ASL) was purified via ion-exchange chromatography on DEAE-cellulose A-25 and size exclusion chromatography on Sephadex G-100 matrix. Molecular weight (16.6 kDa) was estimated by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). The eﬀects of temperature, pH, metal chelation- and larvicidal activity of ASL were also investigated. The ASL indiﬀerently agglutinated the erythrocytes of the human ABO blood system and was stable at acidic pH and below 50 °C whereas 66% of its activity was lost at 60 °C with complete inactivation at 70 °C. ASL is a metalloprotein requiring barium ion as chelation of metals by 50 mM EDTA rendered the lectin inactive, while the addition of BaCl2, among other metal salts, restored the activity. ASL showed larvicidal activity against C. quinquefasciatus larvae after 24 h with a mortality of 5 and 95% at 5 and 25 mg/mL respectively, and LC50 of 13.80 mg/mL. This study concluded that purified A. semotus lectin showed impressive larvicidal activity, which could be exploited in its development as an insecticidal agent.
Liraglutide vs. Lifestyle Intervention in Obesity Treatment: Pros and Cons
Authors: Mckenzie Simone , Mostafa Jihan
Published: August 2021

The increasing prevalence of obesity continue to trigger a cascade of other non-communicable medical conditions and further cripple healthcare financial budgets worldwide. This preventable chronic disease is a global public health concern and has been the center of past, present and future research. As an adjunct to lifestyle intervention, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has currently approved five anti-obesity medications. However, skepticism surrounding the prescription of medication is presented based on historic concerns of previously withdrawn medication.

Liraglutide is among the newly approved anti-obesity medications and has shown favorable weight loss results. The choice of treatment requires a selective determination based on the specific patient population, existing chronic condition(s) and individual preferences.

The goal of this review is to highlight the advantages and disadvantages of liraglutide use compared to lifestyle intervention in treating obesity. This would help individuals make informed decisions in choosing the most suitable option for treating obesity.

It can be concluded that there is no single-handed approach to combat obesity. Regardless of the chosen option, individuals need to be consistent with behavioral changes and exercise in order to effectively treat and possibly eradicate this global epidemic.
El Picante a la Tacnea como eje social.
Authors: Osorio Soto Gary Martín
Published: August 2021

En el presente artículo, se ha propuesto la aproximación analítica sobre historia y arqueología sobre “Picante a la Tacneña”, una cocina fundamental en la identidad cultural tacna. El sincretismo culinario es una reflexión sobre la participación múltiple del agente en el proceso sociocultural e histórico en la adopción, mestizo y desarrollo de un plato culinario. Comprender el proceso sociocultural de este plato permitirá profundizar y mejorar la información sobre el origen, generar desmentir los mitos sobre el origen entre un período realizado sobre la ocupación chilena en Tacna y Arica (1880-1929). Versión de lo que es una premisa falsa, y continuamente bruta e incomprendida. Sin embargo, la base gastronómica, el concepto base del “Picante a la Tacneña” tiene su origen en los siglos XVI y XVII.

El presente artículo promueve el análisis histórico y arqueológico del “Picante a la Tacneña”, comida fundamental de la identidad cultural de Tacna. El sincretismo culinario refleja la participación de múltiples agentes y procesos socio - históricos en la adopción, mestizaje y desarrollo de este plato. El entendimiento sociocultural de este plato, permitió brindar mayores luces sobre su origen, desmontando los mitos de su “Origen” en el período de la ocupación de Tacna y Arica por parte de Chile (1880-1929). Versión el cual ha sido largamente difundida y mal interpretada. Sin embargo, la base gastronómica, se remonta entre los Siglos XVI al XVII, con lo cual, la discusión a plantear es la singularidad y composición única del plato, en un entorno de diversidad geográfica,

Palabras clave: Gastronomía; Conquista; Tacna, Pe
The Magnitude of the Impact of HIV on the Human Beings in the World’s Richest Country, America: The Misery of African Americans
Authors: Abdi Muse
Published: August 2021

Disproportionate rates of HIV infection among African Americans is an increasing concern in the United States. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of HIV prevention programs on African Americans and social determinants fueling HIV-related risk behaviors. Using literature, this study analyzed the incidences of HIV infection among African Americans in the United States and the effectiveness of the prevention programs. African Americans struggle with mass incarceration, drugs, stigma, criminalization, and lack of economic opportunities, which contribute to the HIV-related risk behaviors. The existing traditional prevention programs in place are not working for African Americans. Tailored and culturally relevant programs should be designed and implemented. Further studies are needed to establish the causal relationships and develop preventive measures.
Aprendizagem em Educação Ambiental no contexto escolar:
Authors: De Arruda Reis Geilson , Feldens Schwertner Suzana
Published: August 2021

Este artigo é um recorte de uma dissertação de mestrado em Ensino sobre um trabalho de Educação Ambiental (EA) que vem sendo desenvolvido com discentes do Ensino Fundamental, desde junho de 2012, em uma escola municipal de Imperatriz-MA: o Projeto Bacuri Verde - Adote uma Árvore (PBV). Objetivou-se investigar a compreensão dos discentes participantes acerca da aprendizagem em EA. Em relação à metodologia, trata-se de uma abordagem qualitativa, aproximando-se de pressupostos de estudos multicasos. Foram envolvidos nove egressos e três ingressos do PBV, sendo no total 12 sujeitos voluntários participantes. Para a produção dos dados foram utilizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas, que foram gravadas e transcritas na íntegra. Os dados foram analisados seguindo a abordagem da Análise Textual Discursiva. Os resultados evidenciaram que as acepções sobre EA consideraram como referências as experiências vividas nas circunstâncias da caminhada e envolvimento com o PBV. Ficou compreendido que a EA é capaz de auxiliar os sujeitos a se conhecerem e a se conectarem melhor com o meio ambiente.
Formação de multiplicadores socioambientais:
Authors: Cristina Guilherme Betânia , Silva John Lennon Crystian da , Silva Flávia Carolina Lins da
Published: August 2021

Para formação de multiplicadores ambientais, partindo de práticas pedagógicas em Educação ambiental, foi desenvolvido na escola parceira localizada próxima ao estuário do rio Capibaribe e da comunidade ribeirinha, através de pré-diagnóstico com os estudantes, através de roda de diálogo sobre os saberes socioambientais, enfatizando os impactos e problemas ambientais gerados ao longo dos anos no estuário do Rio Capibaribe, uso de diferentes práticas pedagógicas, objetivando diagnosticar os principais problemas socioambientais presentes na comunidade ribeirinha para tomada de decisão junto aos atores da pesquisa, e descrevendo as práticas pedagógicas vivenciadas após o diagnóstico para consolidação da formação dos multiplicadores ambientais. Percebemos que as práticas pedagógicas em Educação Ambiental são excelentes ferramentas na formação de multiplicadores socioambientais, sensibilizando os estudantes a respeito dos impactos em regiões estuarinas.
A problemática das políticas públicas ambientais no Brasil
Authors: Fernandes Macedo Castelo Arícia , Freitas Schilling Marquesan Fábio , Silva Joselito Brilhante
Published: August 2021

As políticas públicas ambientais envolvem um conjunto de questões complexas, inovadoras e duradouras de ação coletiva que impactam sobre a sociedade e o meio ambiente. As leis, regulamentos, agências públicas e mecanismos participativos multiplicam a dificuldade do seu enquadramento institucional e a resolução dos problemas a que estão vinculados. Mesmo com o aprimoramento da legislação ambiental, a complexidade envolta tem gerado conflitos e dificuldades sociais. O objetivo foi analisar a influência sobre o contexto local e compreensão dos aspectos críticos das políticas públicas ambientais no Brasil, possibilitando uma reflexão sobre desafios, possibilidades e meios usados para um desenvolvimento sustentável. Concluiu-se que a gestão das políticas públicas pode contribuir para mitigação dos problemas ambientais como pode abrir precedentes capazes de gerar e agravar conflitos sociais.
A abordagem da Educação Ambiental na segunda e na terceira versão da Base Nacional Comum Curricular
Authors: Ferreira Bittencourt Mariana , Medeiros Carmo Edinaldo
Published: August 2021

O presente artigo tem como objetivo analisar a abordagem da Educação Ambiental na segunda e terceira versão da Base Nacional Comum Curricular (BNCC) para os anos finais do Ensino Fundamental, especificamente na área de Ciências da Natureza. Para isso, realizamos uma análise documental e discutimos as diferentes abordagens da Educação Ambiental nas duas versões dos documentos. Esse estudo pretende destacar a relevância que essa temática possui, ao propiciar a formação de cidadãos críticos e participativos, além das crescentes demandas em relação à melhoria da qualidade de vida, ao consumo consciente e à preservação do meio ambiente. Porém, ao investigarmos a abordagem da Educação Ambiental na BNCC, percebemos certos reducionismos, tendo predomínio das questões voltadas às perspectivas ecológicas. Desse modo, observamos que não houve um avanço significativo para o fortalecimento da Educação Ambiental no currículo da disciplina escolar Ciências.
Ideias para adiar o fim do mundo
Authors: Mendes Michel
Published: August 2021

RESENHA
Valor do tempo e escolha modal no transporte de carga: estudo de caso de Rio de Janeiro e Rio Grande do Sul
Authors: Larranaga Ana Margarita , De Souza Felipe Lobo Umbelino , Arellana Julian , Senna Luiz Afonso
Published: August 2021

O presente artigo analisa a estrutura de decisão dos usuários embarcadores de transporte de carga de dois estados brasileiros: Rio Grande do Sul (RS) e Rio de Janeiro (RJ). Modelos de escolha discreta são estimados para analisar a escolha modal de embarcadores de carga a partir de dados de Preferência Declarada.  Os resultados evidenciam e quantificam o impacto nas preferências das empresas embarcadoras de carga de minimizar tempos, custos e atraso nos envios de mercadoria. Adicionalmente, é quantificado o impacto de características de confiabilidade, disponibilidade do modo e tipo de serviço na escolha modal. Os resultados mostram a complementariedade dos dados de RJ e RS na estimação dos modelos. Características de custo são percebidas de forma similar por embarcadores de carga de ambos os estados, entretanto características de confiabilidade e de tempo de viagem mostraram ser percebidas de forma diferente. O valor do tempo estimado para RJ foi de R$/t. h 7,43 e para RS de R$/t. h 2,49.
Association of Terry Nails With Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Sack Jordan S. , Liu Anne F. , Gray Meagan , Roat James , Zucker Stephen D.
Published: August 2021

INTRODUCTION:

We looked at the association between Terry nails and liver cirrhosis in an ambulatory population from hepatology and gastroenterology clinics.

METHODS:

We prospectively investigated the prevalence and determinants of Terry nails in 1,000 consecutive patients from hepatology and gastroenterology clinics at 2 institutions between May 2016 and February 2020.

RESULTS:

A total of 117 subjects manifested Terry nails, with a 25.6% prevalence in patients with cirrhosis. When adjusted for age, heart failure, diabetes mellitus type 2, and chronic liver disease, cirrhosis was the only significant correlate (odds ratio 5.7 [95% confidence interval 3.3–9.8]), irrespective of liver disease etiology, with a strong association with hepatic fibrosis stage (P < 0.0001).

DISCUSSION:

Sensitivity and specificity of Terry nails for cirrhosis (25.8%, 92.7%) was similar to palmar erythema but less than spider angioma.
A strategy choosing method for solving the problem of a guard movement while searching for a criminal under condi-tions of uncertainty
Authors: Voroszheykin Vladimir N. , Baranov Alexander S.
Published: August 2021

The work is devoted to the issue of the complex use of technical means and physical security forces while ensuring the safety of several objects located in the controlled area. The method proposed is for solving the problem of choosing a strategy for searching for a criminal by a security officer while minimizing the time of knowing the direction of movement of the first one to one of the two objects. The proposed method is based on a criminal search strategy implemented by the security guards movement control system, which includes two straight sections of their path, which are formed based on information from the security alarm sensors. A mathematical model has been developed for calculating the parameters of controlling the movements of a guard and an algorithm for the control system operation, which makes it possible to implement an optimal search strategy depending on the location of objects, a guard, a criminal, and information from technical means of protection.
Eine neue politische Agenda für Europa
Authors: Seidl Irmi , Zahrnt Angelika
Published: August 2021

Auch in Brüssel ist der Glaubenssatz, Wirtschaftswachstum schaffe Arbeitsplätze und deshalb sei Wachstum unverzichtbar, unerschütterlich verbreitet. So setzt man – wie in früherenKrisen – auch in der Coronakrise wieder auf die Hoffnung Wachstum. Ein aktueller Bericht zeigt dazu Alternativen auf.
Für einen Angewandten Utopismus
Authors: Bluhm Roland , Auer Cornelia
Published: August 2021

Utopien beschreiben andere Verhältnisse, um reale Gesellschaften zu kritisieren oder Alternativen zu ihnen zu entwerfen. Sie können ernst sein oder spielerisch. Alle Formen und Realitätsbezüge des Utopischen haben ihren Ort. Aber wir möchten für eine bestimmte Spielart plädieren: Angewandten Utopismus.