bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An integrated overview of the bacterial flora composition of Hyalomma anatolicum, the main vector of CCHF
Authors: Choubdar Nayyereh , Karimian Fateh , Koosha Mona , Oshaghi Mohammad Ali
Published: June 2021

The microbial flora associated with Hyalomma anatolicum ticks was investigated using culture-dependent (CD) and independent (next generation sequencing, NGS) methods. The bacterial profiles of different organs, development stages, sexes, and of host cattle skins were analyzed using the CD method. The egg and female gut microbiota were investigated using NGS. Fourteen distinct bacterial strains were identified using the CD method, of which Bacillus subtilis predominated in eggs, larval guts and in adult female and male guts, suggesting probable transovarial transmission. Bacillus velezensis and B. subtilis were identified in cattle skin and tick samples, suggesting that skin is the origin of tick bacteria. H.anatolicum males harbour lower bacterial diversity and composition than females. The NGS analysis revealed five different bacterial phyla across all samples, Proteobacteria contributing to >95% of the bacteria. In all, 56611sequences were generated representing 6,023 OTUs per female gut and 421 OTUs per egg. Francisellaceae family and Francisella make up the vast majority of the OTUs. Our findings are consistent with interference between Francisella and Rickettsia. The CD method identified bacteria, such B. subtilis that are candidates for vector control intervention approaches such paratransgenesis whereas NGS revealed high Francisella spp. prevalence, indicating that integrated methods are more accurate to characterize microbial community and diversity.
The synthetic synergistic cinnamon oil CIN-102 is active against Madurella mycetomatis, the most common causative agent of mycetoma
Authors: Konings Mickey , Eadie Kimberly , Lim Wilson , Fahal Ahmed H. , Mouton Johan , Tesse Nicolas , van de Sande Wendy W. J.
Published: June 2021

Mycetoma is a devastating neglected tropical infection of the subcutaneous tissue and most commonly caused by the fungus Madurella mycetomatis. Treatment of mycetoma consists of a combination of a long term antifungal treatment with itraconazole and surgery. However, treatment is associated with low success rates. Therefore, there is a need to identify novel treatments for mycetoma. CIN-102 is a synthetic partial copy of cinnamon oils with activity against many pathogenic bacteria and fungi. In this study we determined the in vitro activity of CIN-102 against 21 M. mycetomatis isolates and its in vivo efficacy in a M. mycetomatis infected Galleria mellonella larval model. In vitro, CIN-102 was active against M. mycetomatis with MICs ranging from 32 μg/mL to 512 μg/mL. 128 μg/mL was needed to inhibit the growth in 50% of tested isolates. In vivo, concentrations below the MIC of 40 mg/kg and 80 mg/kg CIN-102 prolonged larval survival, but higher concentrations of CIN-102 did not.
Are isokinetic leg torques and kick velocity reliable predictors of competitive level in taekwondo athletes?
Authors: Moreira Pedro Vieira Sarmet , Falco Coral , Menegaldo Luciano Luporini , Goethel Márcio Fagundes , de Paula Leandro Vinhas , Gonçalves Mauro
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study is to analyze how isokinetic knee and hip peak torques and roundhouse kick velocities are related to expertise level (elite vs. sub-elite) in taekwondo athletes. Seven elite and seven sub-elite athletes were tested for kick-specific variables (KSV, composed of kinematic variables and power of impact) and for concentric isokinetic peak torque (PT) at 60°/s and 240°/s. First, KSVs and PTs were compared between groups, then PTs were correlated with KSVs. Parametric variables with larger effect sizes (Cohen’s d) were entered in a stepwise linear discriminant analysis (LDA), generating an equation to estimate competitive level. Between-group differences were found in hip flexors (p = 0.04, d = 0.92) and extensors (p = 0.04, d = 0.96) with PT at 240°/s. Hip flexion PT at 60°/s and 240°/s correlated negatively with kick time (R = –0.46, p = 0.0499 and R = –0.62, p = 0.01 respectively). Hip flexion torque at 60°/s correlated positively (R = 0.52, p = 0.03) with peak linear velocity of the foot (LVF) and power of impact (R = 0.51, p = 0.03). Peak torque of hip extension at 60°/s and hip abduction at 240°/s also correlated with LVF (R = 0.56, p = 0.02 and R = 0.46, p = 0.0499). Hip extension at 60°/s correlated positively with peak linear velocity of the knee (R = 0.48, p = 0.04). The LDA showed an accuracy of 85.7% (p = 0.003) in predicting expertise level based on hip flexion and extension torques at 240°/s and on knee extension velocity during the kick. The study demonstrates that hip muscle strength is probably the dominant muscular factor for determining kick performance. Knee angular velocity combined with hip torques is the best discriminator for competitive level in taekwondo athletes.
Dating the Noceto Vasca Votiva, a unique wooden structure of the 15th century BCE, and the timing of a major societal change in the Bronze Age of northern Italy
Authors: Cremaschi Mauro , Griggs Carol , Kocik Cynthia , Mutti Angela , Zerboni Andrea , Manning Sturt W.
Published: June 2021

The Noceto ‘Vasca Votiva’ (votive tank), discovered in excavations on a terrace at the southern edge of the Po Plain, northern Italy, is a unique well-preserved wooden (primarily oak) structure dated to the advanced through late Middle Bronze Age (~1600–1300 BCE). This complex monument, comprising two super-imposed tanks, is generally linked with an important but uncertain ritual role involving water. The context provides extraordinary preservation of both wooden, other organic, and cultural finds. The key question until now, hindering further interpretation of this remarkable structure, has been the precise date of the tanks. Initial work pointed to use of the two tanks over about a century. Using dendrochronology and radiocarbon ‘wiggle-matching’ we report near-absolute construction dates for both of the tanks. The lower (older) tank is dated ~1444±4 BCE and the upper (more recent) tank is dated 12 years later at ~1432±4 BCE. This dating of the construction of the Noceto tanks in the 3rd quarter of the 15th century BCE further enables us to reassess the overall period of activity of this wooden complex and its association with a major period of societal change in the Bronze Age of northern Italy starting in the later 15th century BCE.
Scenario modelling as planning evidence to improve access to emergency obstetric care in eastern Indonesia
Authors: Rambu Ngana Frederika , Eka Karyawati A. A. I. N.
Published: June 2021

The rate of maternal deaths in remote areas in eastern Indonesia–where geographic conditions are difficult and the standard of infrastructure is poor–is high. Long travel times needed to reach emergency obstetric care (EMOC) is one cause of maternal death. District governments in eastern Indonesia need effective planning to improve access to EMOC. The aim of this study was to develop a scenario modelling tool to be used in planning to improve access to EMOC in eastern Indonesia. The scenario model was developed using the geographic information system tool in NetLogo. This model has two inputs: the location of the EMOC facility (PONED) and the travel cost of moving across geographical features in the rainy and dry seasons. We added a cost-benefit analysis to the model: cost is the budget for building the infrastructure; benefit is the number of people who can travel to the EMOC in less than 1 hour if the planned infrastructure is built. We introduced the tool to representative midwives from all districts of Nusa Tenggara Timur province and to staff of Kupang district planning agency. We found that the tool can model accessibility to EMOC based on weather conditions; compare alternative infrastructure planning scenarios based on cost-benefit analysis; enable users to identify and mark poor infrastructure; and model travel across the ocean. Lay people can easily use the tool through interactive scenario modelling: midwives can use it for evidence to support planning proposals to improve access to EMOC in their district; district planning agencies can use it to choose the best plan to improve access to EMOC. Scenario modelling has potential for use in evidence-based planning to improve access to EMOC in low-income and lower-middle-income countries with poor infrastructure, difficult geography conditions, limited budgets and lack of trained personnel.
Importance of the postcranial skeleton in eusuchian phylogeny: Reassessing the systematics of allodaposuchid crocodylians
Authors: Blanco Alejandro
Published: June 2021

Our current knowledge on the crocodyliform evolution is strongly biased towards the skull morphology, and the postcranial skeleton is usually neglected in many taxonomic descriptions. However, it is logical to expect that it can contribute with its own phylogenetic signal. In this paper, the changes in the tree topology caused by the addition of the postcranial information are analysed for the family Allodaposuchidae, the most representative eusuchians in the latest Cretaceous of Europe. At present, different phylogenetic hypotheses have been proposed for this group without reaching a consensus. The results of this paper evidence a shift in the phylogenetic position when the postcranium is included in the dataset, pointing to a relevant phylogenetic signal in the postcranial elements. Finally, the phylogenetic relationships of allodaposuchids within Eusuchia are reassessed; and the internal relationships within Allodaposuchidae are also reconsidered after an exhaustive revision of the morphological data. New and improved diagnoses for each species are here provided.
Childhood food insecurity and incident asthma: A population-based cohort study of children in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Clemens Kristin K. , Le Britney , Ouédraogo Alexandra M. , Mackenzie Constance , Vinegar Marlee , Shariff Salimah Z.
Published: June 2021

Background

Childhood food insecurity has been associated with prevalent asthma in cross-sectional studies. Little is known about the relationship between food insecurity and incident asthma.

Methods

We used administrative databases linked with the Canadian Community Health Survey, to conduct a retrospective cohort study of children <18 years in Ontario, Canada. Children without a previous diagnosis of asthma who had a household response to the Household Food Security Survey Module (HFSSM) were followed until March 31, 2018 for new asthma diagnoses using a validated administrative coding algorithm. We used multivariable Cox proportional hazard models to examine the association between food insecurity and incident asthma, and adjusted models sequentially for clinical and clinical/socioeconomic risk factors. As additional analyses, we examined associations by HFSSM respondent type, severity of food insecurity, and age of asthma diagnosis. Moreover, we assessed for interaction between food security and child’s sex, household smoking status, and maternal asthma on the risk of incident asthma.

Results

Among the 27,746 included children, 5.1% lived in food insecure households. Over a median of 8.34 years, the incidence of asthma was 7.33/1000 person-years (PY) among food insecure children and 5.91/1000 PY among food secure children (unadjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.24, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.54, p = 0.051). In adjusted analyses associations were similar (HR 1.16, 95% CI 0.91 to 1.47, p = 0.24 adjusted for clinical risk factors, HR 1.24, 95% CI 0.97 to 1.60, p = 0.09 adjusted for clinical/socioeconomic factors). Associations did not qualitatively change by HFSSM respondent type, severity of food insecurity, and age of asthma diagnosis. There was no evidence of interaction in our models.

Conclusions

Food insecure children have numerous medical and social challenges. However, in this large population-based study, we did not observe that childhood food insecurity was associated with an increased risk of incident asthma when adjusted for important clinical and socioeconomic confounders.
An intelligent cross-border transaction system based on consortium blockchain: A case study in Shenzhen, China
Authors: Fu Zhengtang , Dong Peiwu , Li Siyao , Ju Yanbing
Published: June 2021

Cross-border transactions have been more and more popular around the world. However, the current cross-border transactions still have risks and challenges, e.g., differences in regulation policies and unbalanced profits of banks. To address this critical issue, we construct a new framework for the transaction system with the support of blockchain technology. In this paper, we propose a new consortium blockchain system, namely asymmetric consortium blockchain (ACB), to ensure the implementation of cross-border transactions. Different from traditional consortium blockchain, the new blockchain system could support the supernode to regulate all the transactions timely. Furthermore, the new smart contract is designed to lower the opportunity loss for each node and make the profits allocation system fairer. In the end, the numerical experiments were carried out based on the transactions of Shenzhen and Hong Kong. The results show that the proposed ACB system is efficient to make the profit allocation fairer for the participants and keep intelligent for the new cross-border transaction system.
Genetic diversity and population structure of Cynara cardunculus L. in southern Portugal
Authors: Castro Maria Miguel , Rosa Daniela , Ferro Ana M. , Faustino Ana , Paulino Ana , Brás Teresa , Machado Eliana , Cruz Carla Pinto , Belo Anabela D. F. , Nozes Paula , Portugal João , Ramôa Sofia , Mendonça Diogo , Simões Fernanda , Duarte Maria F. , Marum Liliana
Published: June 2021

Cynara cardunculusL. is a cardoon species native to the Mediterranean region, which is composed of three botanical taxa, each having distinct biological characteristics. The aim of this study was to examine wild populations ofC.cardunculusestablished in Portugal, in order to determine their genetic diversity, geographic distribution, and population structure. Based on SSR markers, 121 individuals ofC.cardunculusfrom 17 wild populations of the Portuguese Alentejo region were identified and analysed. Ten SSRs were found to be efficient markers in the genetic diversity analysis. The total number of alleles ranged from 9 to 17 per locus. The expected and observed means in heterozygosity, by population analysed, were 0.591 and 0.577, respectively. The wild population exhibited a high level of genetic diversity at the species level. The highest proportion of genetic variation was identified within a geographic group, while variation was lower among groups. Geographic areas having highest genetic diversity were identified in Alvito, Herdade da Abóboda, Herdade da Revilheira and Herdade de São Romão populations. Moreover, significant genetic differentiation existed between wild populations from North-Alentejo geographic locations (Arraiolos, Évora, Monte da Chaminé) and Centro Hortofrutícola, compared with other populations. This study reports genetic diversity among a representative number of wild populations and genotypes ofC.cardunculusfrom Portugal. These results will provide valuable information towards future management ofC.cardunculusgermplasm.
Enlightenment on oscillatory properties of 23 class B notifiable infectious diseases in the mainland of China from 2004 to 2020
Authors: Han Chuanliang , Li Meijia , Haihambo Naem , Cao Yu , Zhao Xixi
Published: June 2021

A variety of infectious diseases occur in mainland China every year. Cyclic oscillation is a widespread attribute of most viral human infections. Understanding the outbreak cycle of infectious diseases can be conducive for public health management and disease surveillance. In this study, we collected time-series data for 23 class B notifiable infectious diseases from 2004 to 2020 using public datasets from the National Health Commission of China. Oscillatory properties were explored using power spectrum analysis. We found that the 23 class B diseases from the dataset have obvious oscillatory patterns (seasonal or sporadic), which could be divided into three categories according to their oscillatory power in different frequencies each year. These diseases were found to have different preferred outbreak months and infection selectivity. Diseases that break out in autumn and winter are more selective. Furthermore, we calculated the oscillation power and the average number of infected cases of all 23 diseases in the first eight years (2004 to 2012) and the next eight years (2012 to 2020) since the update of the surveillance system. A strong positive correlation was found between the change of oscillation power and the change in the number of infected cases, which was consistent with the simulation results using a conceptual hybrid model. The establishment of reliable and effective analytical methods contributes to a better understanding of infectious diseases’ oscillation cycle characteristics. Our research has certain guiding significance for the effective prevention and control of class B infectious diseases.
A reduced state of being: The role of culture in illness perceptions of young adults diagnosed with depressive disorders in Singapore
Authors: Teh Wen Lin , Samari Ellaisha , Cetty Laxman , Kumarasan Roystonn , Devi Fiona , Shahwan Shazana , Chandwani Nisha , Subramaniam Mythily
Published: June 2021

Illness perceptions form a key part of common-sense models which are used widely to explain variations in patient behaviours in healthcare. Despite the pervasiveness of depressive disorders worldwide and in young adults, illness perceptions of depressive disorders have not yet been well understood. Moreover, while a high proportion of cases of depressive disorders reside in South-east Asia, few have explored illness perceptions that are culturally relevant to this region. To address these limitations, this study aimed to understand illness perceptions of young adults diagnosed with depressive disorders. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted among Chinese, Malay, and Indian young adults aged 20 to 35 years old, who were seeking treatment at a psychiatric hospital. Data reached saturation after 33 interviews (10 to 12 interviews per ethnic group) and five themes emerged from the thematic analysis: 1) A reduced state of being experienced at a point of goal disengagement, 2) the accumulation of chronic stressors in a system that demands success and discourages the pursuit of personally meaningful goals, 3) a wide range of symptoms that are uncontrollable and disabling, 4) poor decision making resulting in wasted opportunities, with some positive takeaways, and 5) accepting the chronicity of depression. Young adults typically experienced depression as a reduced state of being and it was thought of cognitively as an entity that may be a part of or separate from the self. Over and beyond these aspects of cognitive representations was the emergence of themes depicting conflicts and dilemmas between the self and the social environment that threatened self-identity and autonomy. Addressing these conflicts in therapy would therefore be of utmost relevance for young adults recovering from depressive disorders in the local setting.
Antibody responses induced by trivalent inactivated influenza vaccine among pregnant and non-pregnant women in Thailand: A matched cohort study
Authors: Nakphook Sutthichai , Patumanond Jayanton , Shrestha Manash , Prasert Kriengkrai , Chittaganpitch Malinee , Mott Joshua A. , Praphasiri Prabda
Published: June 2021

Background

We compared influenza antibody titers among vaccinated and unvaccinated pregnant and non-pregnant women.

Methods

During 1st June– 30th September 2018, four groups of cohort participants—vaccinated pregnant, unvaccinated pregnant, vaccinated non-pregnant, and unvaccinated non-pregnant women were selected by matching age, gestational age, and the week of vaccination. Serum antibody titers against each strain of 2018 Southern Hemisphere inactivated trivalent influenza vaccine (IIV3) were assessed by hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay on Day 0 (pre-vaccination) and Day 28 (one month post-vaccination) serum samples. Geometric mean titer (GMT), GMT ratio (GMR), seroconversion (defined as ≥4 fold increase in HI titer), and seroprotection (i.e. HI titer ≥1:40) were compared across the study groups using multilevel regression analyses, controlling for previous year vaccination from medical records and baseline antibody levels.

Results

A total of 132 participants were enrolled in the study (33 in each of the four study groups). The baseline GMTs for influenza A(H1N1), A(H3N2), and B vaccine strains were not significantly different among all four groups (all p-values >0.05). After one month, both vaccinated groups had significantly higher GMT, GMR, seroconversion, and seroprotection than their unvaccinated controls (all p-values <0.05). The seroconversion rate was over 60% for any strain among the vaccinated groups, with the highest (88.8%) observed against A(H1N1) in the vaccinated pregnant group. Similarly, at least 75% of the vaccinated participants developed seroprotective antibody levels against all three strains; the highest seroprotection was found against A(H3N2) at 92.6% among vaccinated non-pregnant participants. Antibody responses (post-vaccination GMT, GMR, seroconversion, and seroprotection) were not significantly different between pregnant and non-pregnant women for all three strains of IIV3 (all p>0.05).

Conclusions

The 2018 seasonal IIV3 was immunogenic against all three vaccine strains and pregnancy did not seem to alter the immune response to IIV3. These findings support the current influenza vaccination recommendations for pregnant women.
Validation of High-Sensitivity Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Testing for Stool—Toward the New Normal for Fecal Microbiota Transplantation
Authors: Babiker Ahmed , Ingersoll Jessica M. , Adelman Max W. , Webster Andrew S. , Broder Kari J. , Stittleburg Victoria , Waggoner Jesse J. , Kraft Colleen S. , Woodworth Michael H.
Published: June 2021

INTRODUCTION:

Mounting evidence demonstrates potential for fecal–oral transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The US Food and Drug Administration now requires SARS-CoV-2 testing of potential feces donors before the use of stool manufactured for fecal microbiota transplantation. We sought to develop and validate a high-sensitivity SARS-CoV-2 reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) procedure for testing stool specimens.

METHODS:

A modified extraction method was used with an RT-PCR assay adapted from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention PCR protocol for respiratory specimens. Contrived specimens were created using pre-COVID-19 banked stool specimens and spiking in known concentrations of SARS-CoV-2-specific nucleic acid. The highest transcript concentration at which 2/2 or 1/2 SARS-CoV-2 targets were detected in 9/10 replicates was defined as the dual-target limit and single-target limit of detection, respectively. The clinical performance of the assay was evaluated with stool samples collected from 17 nasopharyngeal swab RT-PCR-positive patients and 14 nasopharyngeal RT-PCR-negative patients.

RESULTS:

The dual-target and single-target limit of detection were 56 copies/μL and 3 copies/μL, respectively. SARS-CoV-2 was detected at concentrations as low as 0.6 copies/μL. Clinical stool samples from known COVID-19-positive patients demonstrated the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in stool up to 29 days from symptom onset with a high agreement with nasopharyngeal swab tests (kappa statistic of 0.95, P value < 0.001).

DISCUSSION:

The described RT-PCR test is a sensitive and flexible approach for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in stool specimens. We propose an integrated screening approach that incorporates this stool test to support continuation of fecal microbiota transplantation programs.
Researching literacy policy: Conceptualizing trends in the field
Authors: Innes Mark , Gunter Helen M. , Armstrong Paul
Published: June 2021

The Literacy Policy Project examines the trends in UK government policy interventions into literacy curriculum and pedagogies in schools in England. We undertake a policy scholarship methodology to read policy texts through a conceptual framework that frames policy interventions with functional, realist or socially critical purposes. We identify how successive UK governments have primarily adopted functional policies and research relating to literacy in schools in England. We argue that policy is dictated by, and serves, a growing marketplace for educational solutions, making the case that more prominence should be given to facilitating socially critical approaches to literacy policy.
Sustainable Destination Management In India: Perception Of Stakeholders On Sustainability Of Kerala Tourism
Authors: Venugopalan T.
Published: June 2021

This research paper explores the economic, environmental, and socio-cultural sustainability of tourist destinations in Kerala, a southern state of India, from the perspective of tourists, based on primary research. The exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and structural equation modelling (SEM) are utilized for examining and analysing the sustainability of the tourist destination of Kerala. The research findings on environmental pressure validate that tourism has been exerting huge pressure on the environment. The environment management mechanisms adopted by the government and tourism industry have been effective in mitigating the adverse environmental impacts of tourism. Tourism has been succeeded in achieving economic sustainability by empowering the local communities. Destination governance mechanisms are directly contributing to destinations’ sustainability. The research findings also establish that tourism development in Kerala is socially and culturally sustainable. Thus, this research concludes that tourism development is ensuring the environmental, economic, and social sustainability of tourist destinations of Kerala.
Examining the Capacity of Indonesia’s Defense Entities on Countering Radicalism
Authors: Werijon Werijon , Setiawan Daniel
Published: June 2021

Radicalism for the last few decades has hampered the people and national security building of Indonesia. Contemporary global and regional constellations develop an unprecedented scale of impact radicalism as well as its tractability. The formal categorization of radicalism as an ideology based-non-military threat reflects an imperative mandate for Indonesian defense entities to review and formulate relevant and comprehensive alleviation strategies to address the radicalism. However, this urgency does not appear to have been embodied in at least two points in our opinion: the perception among associated institutions barely aware of the significance of synergy and coordination and second, a minor portion of the countering of radicalism in the frame of the roadmap for Indonesia's national defense development. This research examines the perceptions of relevant defense stakeholders in Indonesia regarding radicalism and its current approach as well as the formulation of strategies that have been implemented or designed to maintain the existence of Indonesian nationalism. We collected information and data through both documentation studies and interviews with representative officials from the relevant ministries, military, and state agencies and then compiled it descriptively. By examining the perceptions of each research object as well as the construction of the strategy that has been rolled out, we conclude the Indonesian defense entities have yet significant, comprehensive, and sustainable strategies addressing the threat of radicalism.
Mathletics software and student attainment in grade 4- a cultural historical analysis
Authors: Hardman Joanne , Raudzingana Mashudu
Published: June 2021

Mathletics is a networked mathematics software package that affords students the opportunity to solve problems. This software is extremely popular in the developed world (Day, 2013) and is gaining popularity in the developing world as a tool that can potentially impact students’ mathematics attainment. 25 years after democracy South Africa continues to lag behind the rest of the world in mathematics and science attainment (Isdale, Reddy, Juan & Arends, 2017). The use of computer-based software packages to meet the needs of developing students’ understanding of mathematics is, therefore, of interest in our context. However, research is clear that it is not technology itself that can lead to learning but rather, how this technology is used; that is, the pedagogical practices underpinning the use of technology serves to develop understanding. This study sought to investigate Mathletics ability to impact positively on student attainment as well as their understanding. Findings indicated that Mathletics software does not build mediation into its programme and, therefore, does not develop conceptual understanding. In relation to student’s attainment, findings indicated that children did not perform better after using Mathletics on a summative test of calculation problems, pointing to the importance of pedagogical underpinnings when using technology.
Study of The Local Wisdom Curriculum of Geopark Belitung to Support Local Cultural Values in Context of Natural Science Learning for Elementary School
Authors: Budiastra A.A. Ketut , Puspitasari Susy , Wicaksono Iwan , Erlina Nia
Published: June 2021

In this article, the respondent's opinion is discussed about the effectiveness of the model of integrating local cultural values of the Belitung Geopark in learning science in elementary schools. The research design refers to research and development design (R&D) includes four stages of activity. However, this study discusses the results of a preliminary study on the content of the local cultural values of the Belitung Geopark in science learning in elementary schools. The population of this research is the teachers of elementary schools Dendang District and Simpang Pesak District, East Belitung Regency. The sample was selected by purposive sampling, namely 34 elementary school teachers and as many as 152 elementary school students in grade IV, grade V, and grade VI. The instruments used in the data collection process included questionnaires, interview guidelines, observation sheets, and student learning outcomes tests. The teacher's ability to plan to learn is measured using the teacher ability assessment tool (TAAT) I format. Meanwhile, the teacher's ability to teach is measured using the (TAAT) II format. From the results of this study, it concluded that (1) Implementation of the Geopark local wisdom curriculum is effective in improving student geopark learning outcomes in science learning in elementary schools; (2) The characteristics of science learning that are integrated with Geopark content can be implemented by the teacher; (3) The model of integrating local cultural values of the Belitung Geopark in learning science in elementary schools can realize the concept of science is fun in elementary school.
On gradedJgr-classical 2-absorbing submodules of graded modules over graded commutative rings
Authors: Al-Zoubi Khaldoun , Alghueiri Shatha
Published: June 2021

LetGbe an abelian group with identityee. LetRbe aG-graded commutative ring with identity 1, andMMbe a gradedR-module. In this paper, we introduce the concept of gradedJgr{J}_{gr}-classical 2-absorbing submodule as a generalization of a graded classical 2-absorbing submodule. We give some results concerning of these classes of graded submodules. A proper graded submoduleCCofMMis called a gradedJgr{J}_{gr}-classical 2-absorbing submodule ofMM, if wheneverrg,sh,ti∈h(R){r}_{g},{s}_{h},{t}_{i}\in h\left(R)andxj∈h(M){x}_{j}\in h\left(M)withrgshtixj∈C{r}_{g}{s}_{h}{t}_{i}{x}_{j}\in C, then eitherrgshxj∈C+Jgr(M){r}_{g}{s}_{h}{x}_{j}\in C+{J}_{gr}\left(M)orrgtixj∈C+Jgr(M){r}_{g}{t}_{i}{x}_{j}\in C+{J}_{gr}\left(M)orshtixj∈C+Jgr(M),{s}_{h}{t}_{i}{x}_{j}\in C+{J}_{gr}\left(M),whereJgr(M){J}_{gr}\left(M)is the graded Jacobson radical.
Methods Used in Economic Research: An Empirical Study of Trends and Levels
Authors: Paldam Martin
Published: June 2021

The methods used in economic research are analyzed on a sample of all 3,415 regular research papers published in 10 general interest journals every 5th year from 1997 to 2017. The papers are classified into three main groups by method: theory, experiments, and empirics. The theory and empirics groups are almost equally large. Most empiric papers use the classical method, which derives an operational model from theory and runs regressions. The number of papers published increases by 3.3% p.a. Two trends are highly significant: The fraction of theoretical papers has fallen by 26 pp (percentage points), while the fraction of papers using the classical method has increased by 15 pp. Economic theory predicts that such papers exaggerate, and the papers that have been analyzed by meta-analysis confirm the prediction. It is discussed if other methods have smaller problems.
Effect of two hypercaloric diets on the hormonal and metabolic profile of the adrenal gland
Authors: Zoulikha Mokrani , Nacira Zerrouki , Therese Gernigon-Spichalowicz , Yacine Soltani
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Who disrupts who? It is not clear what the interaction is between a high calorie diet (HCD) and adrenal axis activation in obesity. The goal was to assess the effect of two hypercaloric diets commercialized in Algeria on the hormonal and metabolic profile of the adrenal gland in rabbits.

Methods

Two classes of local male adult rabbits (n=16) and a finishing diet (FD) as a control for 15 weeks.

Results

It has been shown that HCD-received animals have developed visceral obesity, dyslipidemia and insulin resistance IR by dramatically increasing body weight, visceral fat tissue and adrenal weight, combined with elevated plasma levels of ACTH, cortisol, leptin and insulin. The HCD diet increased the levels of cortisol in the visceral adipose tissue (VAT), in peri-adrenal adipose tissue (PAAT), and decreased cortisol levels in the liver. HCD also causes the process of inflammatory fibrosis associated with the migration and spread of chromaffin cells in the adrenal gland.

Conclusions

This study gives new insights into how diet-induced obesity studied on local rabbits affects the biology of the adrenal gland. The correlation of these changes with paracrine connections between the chromaffin cell and glomerulosa indicates potential therapeutic methods for obese-related steroid hormone dysfunction.
The exact Riemann solutions to an isentropic non-ideal dusty gas flow under a magnetic field
Authors: Pang Yicheng , Ge Jianjun , Liu Zuozhi , Hu Min
Published: June 2021

We analyse exact solutions to the Riemann problem for a one-dimensional isentropic and perfectly conducting non-ideal dusty gas flow in the presence of a transverse magnetic field. We give the expression of wave curves as well as the behaviors of these wave curves. A new technique is provided to get a complete list of analytical solutions with the corresponding criteria. Moreover, the numerical solutions to the Riemann problem are also given. It is shown that the analytical solutions match well with the corresponding numerical solutions.
Kriging-based prediction of the Earth’s pole coordinates
Authors: Michalczak Maciej , Ligas Marcin
Published: June 2021

Coordinates of the Earth’s pole represent two out of five Earth orientation parameters describing Earth’s rotation. They are necessary in transformation between celestial reference frame and terrestrial reference frame and what goes further in precise positioning and navigation, applications in astronomy, communication with outer space objects. Complexity of measuring techniques and data processing involved in the pole coordinates determination make it impossible to obtain them in real-time mode, hence a prediction problem of the polar motion emerges. In this study, geostatistical prediction methods, i. e., simple and ordinary kriging are applied. Millions of predictions have been performed to draw reasonable conclusions on prediction capabilities of applied kriging variants. The study is intended in ultra-short-term prediction (up to 15 days into the future) using the IERS EOP 14 C04 (IAU2000A) and IERS EOP 05 C04 (IAU2000A) series as a reference. Mean absolute prediction errors (for days 1–15) with respect to IERS 14 C04 are ranging 0.66–5.25 mas for PMx and 0.47–3.59 mas for PMy. On the other hand, for IERS 05 C04 the values are 0.60–4.95 mas and 0.44–3.29 mas for PMx and PMy; respectively. The results indicate competitiveness of the introduced methods with existing ones.
Nonlinear/dispersion compensation in dual polarization 128-QAM system incorporating optical backpropagation
Authors: Chauhan Anu , Yadav Innu , Dhawan Priyanka , Kaur Simarpreet , Verma Ashu
Published: June 2021

In order to cater long distance optical network units (subscribers), optical networks with prolonged reach are needed. In this study, an optical back propagation (OBP) dual polarization (DP)-128 QAM-based system is proposed to cope with nonlinear impairments in wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) systems. In pre, post and symmetrical configurations, the OBP module consisting of the optical phase conjugator (OPC), Raman fiber amplifier (RFA) and erbium doped fiber amplifier (EDFAs) is examined. Using dispersion compensation fiber (DCF) as RFA with dual directional pumping, ideal OBP conditions are simulated. DP-128 quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) system is proposed with symmetrical OBP and compared with single channel digital back propagation (DBP), wideband DBP, pre OBP-forward pumping, pre OBP with backward pumping, pre OBP with dual directional pumping, post OBP with dual directional pumping. It is observed that symmetrical OBP configuration with dual direction pumping provide enhanced results and successfully cover 6500 km at bit error rate (BER) 10−3.
International Cooperation Without Just Distributions? Beginning to Map the Role of Rising Economic Inequality in the Formation and Evolution of and Adherence to International Law
Authors: Beyleveld Alexander D.
Published: June 2021

The argument in this paper is that international lawyers—scholars and practitioners alike—should be cognisant of the fact that different economic distributions within nations will lead to the establishment of different international legal systems in terms of their formation and evolution, as well as in relation to the extent to which they are respected and adhered to. Rising economic inequality within nations is an issue of incredible systemic importance to international law; it should be pushed further up the agenda when it comes to devising the laws between them because this will, on balance, assist in creating a more peaceful and prosperous world underpinned by an effective law of nations that is up to the types of contemporary challenges which of necessity require more cooperation between states. Accordingly, from the perspective of this paper, international lawyers should, at a minimum do the following (i) give consideration to the direction of distributional trends within nations when attempting to understand how current international law works (i.e. how it formed, evolves and the extent to which it is respected and adhered to); (ii) give consideration to these same trends when conceptualising and designing the international law(s) of the future and (iii) to the extent necessary, think about the development of the mechanisms at the international law level that encourage and enable the reduction of economic inequality within nations with a view to ensuring that the better functioning, at a systemic level, of the international legal system in general, as well as the various parts of which that system is comprised.
Dynamic Collections: A 3D Web Infrastructure for Artifact Engagement
Authors: Ekengren Fredrik , Callieri Marco , Dininno Domenica , Berggren Åsa , Macheridis Stella , Dell’Unto Nicolò
Published: June 2021

Archaeological collections are crucial in heritage studies and are used every day for training archaeologists and cultural heritage specialists. The recent developments in 3D acquisition and visualization technology has contributed to the rapid emergence of a large number of 3D collections, whose production is often justified as the democratization of data and knowledge production. Despite the fact that several 3D datasets are now available online, it is not always clear how the data – once stored – may be engaged by archaeology students, and the possible challenges the students may face in the learning process. The goal of the Dynamic Collections project at Lund University is to develop a novel 3D web infrastructure designed to support higher education and research in archaeology. At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in the spring of 2020, all teaching at Lund University moved online, reinforcing the urgency for such an infrastructure. By letting a group of students test an early version of the system as part of their online teaching, we were able to study how they used and interacted with an archaeological collection in 3D and explore the intersection of digital methods and pedagogy in archaeology. This article presents the preliminary results from this experiment.
Identity in the bilingual couple: Attitudes to language and culture
Authors: Stępkowska Agnieszka
Published: June 2021

The article focuses on identity in bilingual couples by investigating their attitudes to language and culture. The research question asks how they make sense of their linguistic and cultural duality. Based on the data from in-depth interviews, I concentrate on the notion of identity in bilingual couplehood. I analyze excerpts of interviews produced by 24 couples of Poles with their foreign partners who reside in Poland. I investigate these couples’ talk with regard to their interpretations of identities resulting from their individual life histories and private ideologies about language and culture. My data suggest that attitudes to language and culture relate to the mutual understanding in the couple. I found evidence for differences and similarities as subjectively assessed by partners, higher metalinguistic awareness, an altered perception of one’s self and redefined national stereotypes. The results reveal that the couples’ attitudes are geared to jointly create and negotiate identities in interaction. The article views identity from a new perspective by giving voice to bilingual couples. The novelty relies on the less studied Polish context and, in general, the explicit evaluation of one’s own socialization to a different language and culture. The qualitative lens of the presented study contributes to our understanding of how individuals in intercultural couples use language to convey dual identity and accomplish social goals.
Evaluation of carbon fiber reinforced polymer – CFRP – machining by applying industrial robots
Authors: Grisol de Melo Ever , dos Santos Silva Jéssica Christina , Klein Tiago Borsoi , Polte Julian , Uhlmann Eckart , de Oliveira Gomes Jefferson
Published: June 2021

Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) is widely used in high-tech industries because of its interesting characteristics and properties. This material presents good strength and stiffness, relatively low density, high damping ability, good dimensional stability, and good corrosion resistance. However, the machinability of composite materials is complex because of the matrix/fiber interface, being a challenging machining material. The CFRP milling process is still necessary to meet dimensional tolerances, the manufacture of difficult-to-mold features like pockets or complexes advance surfaces, finish the edges of laminated composites, or drill holes for the assembly of the components. Besides, the demand for low-cost, reconfigurable manufacturing systems of the industry demonstrates that the application of industrial robots (IRs) in the CFRP milling process becomes an alternative for providing automation and flexibility. Therefore, the objective of this work is to evaluate the performance of the low payload IR KUKA KR60 HA in a milling experiment of CFRP, which indicates its potential application as an alternative to milling process. Furthermore, the influence of the cutting tool geometry as well as the cutting parameters in the machining behavior with IRs is evaluated.
New Approach to Determine Standard Deviation and Precision Estimates for ASTM D4867/D4867M and AASHTO T283
Authors: Bausano Jason , Steger Richard
Published: June 2021

Moisture damage in asphalt pavements can be attributed to the incompatibility of the asphalt binder, aggregate, or the interaction of the asphalt binder and aggregate. Moisture damage can accelerate pavement distresses such as cracking and rutting. The most widely used test methods by state highway agencies are AASHTO T283-14, Standard Method of Test for Resistance of Compacted Asphalt Mixtures to Moisture-Induced Damage, and ASTM D4867/D4867M-09, Standard Test Method for Effect of Moisture on Asphalt Concrete Paving Mixtures. Some state highway agencies evaluate moisture resistance during production to ensure a quality asphalt mixture. Currently AASHTO T283-14 and ASTM D4867/D4867M-09 do not provide a method to calculate the standard deviation of the tensile strength ratio (TSR), nor does it provide precision estimates for the TSR. The objective of this paper is to show how one can calculate the variance (or standard deviation) of a variable when the value of interest (i.e., TSR) is calculated from two other random variables. The standard deviation of a random variable that is a quotient of two other variables can be calculated easily as long as the individual variables are random, independent, and the standard deviations are small relative to the mean. The novelty of this approach is in a statistics-based method for determining the standard deviation of the TSR based on using an approximation for the ratio variance using ASTM D4460-97, Standard Practice for Calculating Precision Limits Where Values Are Calculated from Other Test Methods. This new approach to calculate the standard deviation of the TSR will be used to develop a precision statement for AASHTO T283-14 and ASTM D4867/D4867M-09 following ASTM E691-19e1, Standard Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Determine the Precision of a Test Method (Superseded).
The Influence of Different Infill Structures on the Mechanical Properties in Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Förster Wolfgang , Pucklitzsch Thomas , Nickel Daniela
Published: June 2021

Besides the outer shell, it is the internal structures that contribute the most to the mechanical integrity of an additively manufactured component. In order to investigate the influence of the geometrically different internal structures and infill density on the Young’s modulus, tensile strength and failure strain, tensile specimens of polylactic Acid (PLA) were prepared using fused deposition modeling and tested at room temperature. There was a significant influence of the infill density, the manufacturing process and the resulting microstructure on the mechanical properties. In summary, the position of the microstructure relative to the load direction is found to be a significant factor of influence.
Fungal Biodiversity at the Graveyard “Gottesacker” in Herrnhut (Upper Lusatia, Saxony)
Authors: Karich Alexander , Ullrich René , Hofrichter Martin
Published: June 2021

The Gottesacker (“God’s acre”) in Herrnhut (Upper Lusatia, Saxony) has been a graveyard for almost 300 years. G. Zschieschang has mapped its fungal community since the 1960ies. Combining these findings and those of other mycologists, mycological data that cover about 55 years are reported here. In this context, we discuss the fungal biodiversity with special emphasis on CHEGD species (Clavariaceae-Hygrocybe-Entoloma-Geoglossaceae-Dermoloma). These species are used to classify and assess the conservation value of grasslands by monitoring their fungal communities. According to the determined CHEGD profile, the Gottesacker graveyard is ranked as a grassland of international importance. In addition, we present macroscopic and microscopic characteristics of two rare CHEGD species: Entoloma brunneosericeum and Clavaria messapica. These are the first records of both species for Germany and Saxony, respectively.