bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of surface modification on wettability and tribology by laser texturing in Al2O3
Authors: Jing Xiubing , Xia Yani , Zheng Shuxian , Yang Chengjuan , Qi Huan , Jaffery Syed Husain Imran
Published: April 2021

The life of ceramic tools restricts the development of the manufacturing industry and can be increased through the enhancement of surface performance. Laser surface texturing is a feasible technology to improve ceramic tool life based on the relationship between surface properties and the laser-texturing process. In this study,

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substrates have been textured by an ytterbium fiber laser system with a wavelength of 1064 nm and a pulse duration of 50 ns. First, the damage threshold of

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was measured to provide a basis for selecting laser-texturing parameters. The surface morphology was characterized using a white confocal scanning microscope and a scanning electron microscope to investigate the characteristics of laser processing. Water contact angles were measured to investigate the relationship between laser parameters and changes in wettability. The surface energy of the superhydrophobic ceramic was calculated based on the contact angle. Combined X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurement was used to explore the mechanism of wettability changes from the chemical component and microstructure perspectives. The friction coefficient of

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was determined by a ball-on-disc wear test. The results showed that laser texturing can significantly improve the surface hydrophobicity and friction stability.
On-chip chalcogenide microresonators with low-threshold parametric oscillation
Authors: Zhang Bin , Zeng Pingyang , Yang Zelin , Xia Di , Zhao Jiaxin , Sun Yaodong , Huang Yufei , Song Jingcui , Pan Jingshun , Cheng Huanjie , Choi Dukyong , Li Zhaohui
Published: April 2021

Chalcogenide glass (ChG) is an attractive material for highly efficient nonlinear photonics, which can cover an ultrabroadband wavelength window from the near-visible to the footprint infrared region. However, it remains a challenge to implement highly-efficient and low-threshold optical parametric processes in chip-scale ChG devices due to thermal and light-induced instabilities as well as a high-loss factor in ChG films. Here, we develop a systematic fabrication process for high-performance photonic-chip-integrated ChG devices, by which planar-integrated ChG microresonators with an intrinsic quality (

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) factor above 1 million are demonstrated. In particular, an in situ light-induced annealing method is introduced to overcome the longstanding instability underlying ChG film. In high-

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ChG microresonators, optical parametric oscillations with threshold power as low as 5.4 mW are demonstrated for the first time, to our best knowledge. Our results would contribute to efforts of making efficient and low-threshold optical microcombs not only in the near-infrared as presented but more promisingly in the midinfrared range.
Domestic dog demographics and estimates of canine vaccination coverage in a rural area of Zambia for the elimination of rabies
Authors: Kaneko Chiho , Omori Ryosuke , Sasaki Michihito , Kataoka-Nakamura Chikako , Simulundu Edgar , Muleya Walter , Moonga Ladslav , Ndebe Joseph , Hang’ombe Bernard M. , Dautu George , Qiu Yongjin , Nakao Ryo , Kajihara Masahiro , Mori-Kajihara Akina , Chambaro Herman M. , Higashi Hideaki , Sugimoto Chihiro , Sawa Hirofumi , Mweene Aaron S. , Takada Ayato , Isoda Norikazu
Published: April 2021

Background

An estimated 75% or more of the human rabies cases in Africa occur in rural settings, which underscores the importance of rabies control in these areas. Understanding dog demographics can help design strategies for rabies control and plan and conduct canine mass vaccination campaigns effectively in African countries.

Methodology/Principal findings

A cross-sectional survey was conducted to investigate domestic dog demographics in Kalambabakali, in the rural Mazabuka District of Zambia. The population of ownerless dogs and the total achievable vaccination coverage among the total dog population was estimated using the capture-recapture-based Bayesian model by conducting a canine mass vaccination campaign. This study revealed that 29% of the domestic dog population was under one year old, and 57.7% of those were under three months old and thus were not eligible for the canine rabies vaccination in Zambia. The population growth was estimated at 15% per annum based on the cross-sectional household survey. The population of ownerless dogs was estimated to be small, with an ownerless-to-owned-dog ratio of 0.01–0.06 in the target zones. The achieved overall vaccination coverage from the first mass vaccination was estimated 19.8–51.6%. This low coverage was principally attributed to the owners’ lack of information, unavailability, and dog-handling difficulties. The follow-up mass vaccination campaign achieved an overall coverage of 54.8–76.2%.

Conclusions/Significance

This paper indicates the potential for controlling canine rabies through mass vaccination in rural Zambia. Rabies education and responsible dog ownership are required to achieve high and sustainable vaccination coverage. Our findings also propose including puppies below three months old in the target population for rabies vaccination and emphasize that securing an annual enforcement of canine mass vaccination that reaches 70% coverage in the dog population is necessary to maintain protective herd immunity.
Identification and selection of optimal reference genes for qPCR-based gene expression analysis in Fucus distichus under various abiotic stresses
Authors: Linardić Marina , Braybrook Siobhan A.
Published: April 2021

Quantitative gene expression analysis is an important tool in the scientist’s belt. The identification of evenly expressed reference genes is necessary for accurate quantitative gene expression analysis, whether by traditional RT-PCR (reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction) or by qRT-PCR (quantitative real-time PCR; qPCR). In the Stramenopiles (the major line of eukaryotes that includes brown algae) there is a noted lack of known reference genes for such studies, largely due to the absence of available molecular tools. Here we present a set of nine reference genes (Elongation Factor 1 alpha (EF1A), Elongation Factor 2 alpha (EF2A), Elongation Factor 1 beta (EF1B), 14-3-3 Protein, Ubiquitin Conjugating Enzyme (UBCE2), Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate Dehydrogenase (GAPDH), Actin Related Protein Complex (ARP2/3), Ribosomal Protein (40s; S23), and Actin) for the brown alga Fucus distichus. These reference genes were tested on adult sporophytes across six abiotic stress conditions (desiccation, light and temperature modification, hormone addition, pollutant exposure, nutrient addition, and wounding). Suitability of these genes as reference genes was quantitatively evaluated across conditions using standard methods and the majority of the tested genes were evaluated favorably. However, we show that normalization genes should be chosen on a condition-by-condition basis. We provide a recommendation that at least two reference genes be used per experiment, a list of recommended pairs for the conditions tested here, and a procedure for identifying a suitable set for an experimenter’s unique design. With the recent expansion of interest in brown algal biology and accompanied molecular tools development, the variety of experimental conditions tested here makes this study a valuable resource for future work in basic biology and understanding stress responses in the brown algal lineage.
Evaluating competition for forage plants between honey bees and wild bees in Denmark
Authors: Rasmussen Claus , Dupont Yoko L. , Madsen Henning Bang , Bogusch Petr , Goulson Dave , Herbertsson Lina , Maia Kate Pereira , Nielsen Anders , Olesen Jens M. , Potts Simon G. , Roberts Stuart P. M. , Sydenham Markus Arne Kjær , Kryger Per
Published: April 2021

A recurrent concern in nature conservation is the potential competition for forage plants between wild bees and managed honey bees. Specifically, that the highly sophisticated system of recruitment and large perennial colonies of honey bees quickly exhaust forage resources leading to the local extirpation of wild bees. However, different species of bees show different preferences for forage plants. We here summarize known forage plants for honey bees and wild bee species at national scale in Denmark. Our focus is on floral resources shared by honey bees and wild bees, with an emphasis on both threatened wild bee species and foraging specialist species. Across all 292 known bee species from Denmark, a total of 410 plant genera were recorded as forage plants. These included 294 plant genera visited by honey bees and 292 plant genera visited by different species of wild bees. Honey bees and wild bees share 176 plant genera in Denmark. Comparing the pairwise niche overlap for individual bee species, no significant relationship was found between their overlap and forage specialization or conservation status. Network analysis of the bee-plant interactions placed honey bees aside from most other bee species, specifically the module containing the honey bee had fewer links to any other modules, while the remaining modules were more highly inter-connected. Despite the lack of predictive relationship from the pairwise niche overlap, data for individual species could be summarized. Consequently, we have identified a set of operational parameters that, based on a high foraging overlap (>70%) and unfavorable conservation status (Vulnerable+Endangered+Critically Endangered), can guide both conservation actions and land management decisions in proximity to known or suspected populations of these species.
Dysregulation of circulating miRNAs promotes the pathogenesis of diabetes-induced cardiomyopathy
Authors: Ahmed Uzair , Ashfaq Usman Ali , Qasim Muhammad , Ahmad Imtiaz , Ahmad Hafiz Usman , Tariq Muhammad , Masoud Muhammad Shareef , Khaliq Saba
Published: April 2021

Diabetic Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is characterized by myocardial dysfunction caused by diabetes mellitus. After-effects of diabetic cardiomyopathy are far more lethal than non-diabetic cardiomyopathy. More than 300 million people suffer from diabetes and cardiovascular disorder which is expected to be elevated to an alarming figure of 450 million by 2030. Recent studies suggested that miRNA plays important role in the onset of diabetic cardiomyopathy. This study was designed to identify the miRNA that is responsible for the onset of diabetic cardiomyopathy using in silico and in vitro approaches. In this study, to identify the miRNA responsible for the onset of diabetic cardiomyopathy, in silico analysis was done to predict the role of these circulating miRNAs in type 2 diabetic cardiomyopathy. Shared miRNAs that are present in both diseases were selected for further analysis. Total RNA and miRNA were extracted from blood samples taken from type 2 diabetic patients as well as healthy controls to analyze the expression of important genes like AKT, VEGF, IGF, FGF1, ANGPT2 using Real-time PCR. The expression of ANGPT2 was up-regulated and AKT, VEGF, IGF, FGF1 were down-regulated in DCM patients as compared to healthy controls. The miRNA expression of miR-17 was up-regulated and miR-24, miR-150, miR-199a, miR-214, and miR-320a were down-regulated in the DCM patients as compared to healthy controls. This shows that dysregulation of target genes and miRNA may contribute towards the pathogenesis of DCM and more studies should be conducted to elucidate the role of circulating miRNAs to use them as therapeutic and diagnostic options.
Metacognition and self-concept: Elaborating on a construct relation in first-grade children
Authors: Dapp Laura C. , Roebers Claudia M.
Published: April 2021

Self-evaluations play an important role in various fields of study, specifically in research on metacognition and self-concept. Although the assumption that self-evaluations as known from metacognitive monitoring and academic self-concept are related has received wide agreement, the nature of such a relationship has only rarely been investigated. In the current study, the individual-differences approach that has occasionally addressed this association is discussed and extended twofold. For one, a novel way to compare metacognition and self-concept is presented by computing a self-concept bias—analogous to metacognition research. For another, the study targeted a younger population, namely first-grade children. In line with previous studies, the results confirmed a weak relation between metacognitive monitoring and academic self-concept when relating the two constructs at the absolute level of confidence. However, relating the constructs by means of the respective biases revealed a more substantial association. Thus, while previous studies have assumed the common thread between metacognition and self-concept to be best explained by a general confidence trait, the present study suggests the accuracy of self-evaluations to be at stake instead. Hence, by introducing a method to quantify a bias in self-concept, the current study proposes a new and promising way to compare and relate the constructs of metacognition and self-concept.
Fipronil Poisoning Presenting as Sinus Bradycardia - A Rare Case Report
Authors: Wadekar Abhijit , Pratapa Sreekarthik , Patel Maharshi , Gaidhane Shilpa , Khatib Nazli
Published: April 2021

Fipronil is an N-phenylpyrazole insecticide, a second-generation insecticide which is relatively new and now commonly used in cotton growing community of rural Central India. Farmer suicide and deliberate self-poisoning is menace to the Vidarbha region of rural Central India. There is paucity of research published on fipronil poisoning, clinical features, complications and treatment data. It is scarcely documented worldwide. Agricultural insecticides are common household items in rural areas of developing countries. Because of their easy availability, insecticides became a major source of deliberate self-poisoning. As per World Health Organization (WHO), around 3 million poisoning cases with around 0.2 million deaths are noted annually in the world. 1 About 99 % of these deaths occur in developing countries. Insecticide poisoning is an important public issue in India.Around 168,000 deaths occurred from pesticide self-poisoning which totals to almost 19.7 % of the global suicides.2 The most common cause of self-poisoning in Central India is ingestion of organophosphorus compounds (OPC). Poisoning with organophosphorus compound insecticides has high mortality rate.1 In the last 20 years, there is development of a new class of insecticides in view of mortality due to accidental exposures of organophosphorus and organochlorine compounds. Fipronil being one of these chemicals, is considered less harmful to humans. According to WHO classification fipronil is class II moderately hazardous pesticide.3 Fipronil, an N-phenylpyrazole with a trifluoromethyl sulfinyl substituent, one of the first second generation insecticides, acts at the γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor and blocks the chloride channel. Fipronil is often used to control pests, fleas and ticks on pets. There is, however, very less evidence or research on human beings on their toxicity; thus, post marketing surveillance is important to detect any undesirable health issues associated with these chemicals. Until now only 3 case reports are published regarding fipronil poisoning, two cases form India and others from Sri Lanka. Hence, we are reporting a case of acute fipronil poisoning which presented as acute gastritis and sinus bradycardia.
Diseño de una estratégia didáctica centrada en potenciar el pensamiento computacional de jóvenes con Enfermedades Raras de la asociación INèDITHOS
Authors: Gelabert Sebastià Verger , Colom Marc Salas , Negre Laia Riera , Benassar Francisca Negre
Published: April 2021

Partiendo de las necesidades educativas que presentan en el campo de las matemáticas los afectados por enfermedades raras, se plantea el diseño una estrategia didáctica centrada en potenciar el pensamiento computacional de 3 participantes de Educación Secundaria a cargo de la asociación INèDITHOS. De forma paralela, utilizando como foco el modelo de gestión de proyectos IPECC y partiendo de las necesidades en competencias digitales que muestra el equipo de voluntariado, se diseña e implementa un espacio virtual de formación centrado en el uso de los recursos que componen la misma estrategia didáctica. De esta forma, se garantiza su correcta implementación en el contexto de la asociación, así como ejemplos de sesiones, videotutoriales, recursos visuales, etc.
Hacia la profesionalización de la pedagogía hospitalaria
Authors: Garuz María Cruz Molina
Published: April 2021

Se presentan las bases teóricas y las orientaciones prácticas, con el objetivo de contribuir al avance de la profesionalización en la educación hospitalaria. Se enmarcan en un concepto amplio de pedagogía hospitalaria, cuyos ámbitos de actuación se conciben como parte de un sistema educativo inclusivo de calidad. Se analizan los conceptos de profesionalidad y de desarrollo profesional del docente para su aplicación  al contexto hospitalario, como elementos clave en la definición de su identidad propia. Se define el perfil competencial de esta profesión mediante la delimitación de funciones y competencias, aportando a modo de ejemplo el desarrollo de la competencia responsabilidad. Este marco puede servir de base para la formación de profesionales, que a su vez será clave para el desempeño competente de la profesión. Derivado de este análisis, se hace énfasis en la importancia de la formación desde un enfoque de enseñanza y aprendizaje basado en las competencias profesionales.
The Analysis of Shouryakugo on Social Media Twitter
Authors: Sanjaya Sonda
Published: April 2021

This study examined the morphology of shouryakugo on social media Twitter. This study aims to determine the type and process of shouryakugo formation on Twitter. The study data were taken from tweets that were trending with hashtag # 社会 between January and March 2019. A descriptive qualitative design was employed in this study. The data obtained were categorized and analyzed based on the formation process. The results of this study showed the types and processes of shouryakugo formation. The findings include four forms of zenbu shouryakukei, 32 forms of gobu shouryakukei, five forms of chuushouryaku kei, one form of zengo shouryaku kei, and 21 forms of kousei youso tanbun ketsugoukei. Meanwhile, in the process of forming shouryaku, the researcher found four words with the omission of parts or all of the first words, two words with the omission of parts or all of the second words, twenty-five words with the omission of syllables at the end of words, two words with the omission of syllables at the end of the first word and all second words, twenty-one words with the omission of syllables at the end of the first word and the second-word element, three words with the omission of all second words, five words with the omission of middle words, one word with the omission of the first syllable of the first word and the final syllable of the second word.
Estimation of Communities and Tourists Willingness to Pay for Tsunami Disaster Mitigation of Marine Tourism in the Kalianda Coastal Area, South Lampung Regency
Authors: Soejarwo Permana Ari , Rusdi Rismawaty , Kodiran Taryono , Muawanah Umi
Published: April 2021

Indonesia coastal areas have considerable natural disaster potential including in Kalianda District South Lampung Regency. Natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic activity are likely to occur in coastal areas. The disaster has an impact on economic losses in the marine tourism area. In order to mitigate tsunami disasters in the marine tourism area of Kalianda District, South Lampung Regency, 3 (three) types of tsunami mitigation are needed, namely: construction of coastal protection, installation of the Tsunami Early Warning System (TEWS) and planting of coastal vegetation. This study aims to determine the value of willingness to pay (WTP) of community and tourists in supporting the management of the three types of tsunami disaster mitigation above by using economic valuation / Contingent Valuation Method (CVM). The results of this study indicate that the WTP value of community for coastal protection management is Rp 15.547/person/month while the WTP value of tourist is Rp 12.030/one time entry. Meanwhile, for the WTP value of TEWS management is obtained Rp 12.174/person/month. WTP value for the management of coastal vegetation is Rp 12.444/person/month. The WTP calculation is based on consideration of 3 (three) factors, namely age, income, livelyhood and education level. This research shows that the community and tourists are willing to pay for the management of the three types of tsunami disaster mitigation through BUMDes and entrance fees for marine tourism area. The three types of tsunami disaster mitigation can protect, provide security and calm to the community and tourists in the marine tourism area of Kalianda District, South Lampung Regency from future tsunami.
Analisis Faktor Pendorong Perubahan Tutupan Lahan selama Satu Dekade di Kabupaten Labuhanbatu Utara
Authors: Kaswanto Regan Leonardus , Aurora Ruth Mevianna , Yusri Doni , Sjaf Sofyan
Published: April 2021

Mengacu pada Undang Undang Republik Indonesia Nomor 23 Tahun 2008, sejak tanggal 24 Juni 2008. Kabupaten Labuhanbatu Utara (Labura) mulai berdiri sendiri sebagai kabupaten dan terpisah dari Kabupaten Labuhanbatu Selatan. Pada dasarnya wilayah pemekaran memiliki tujuan untuk meningkatkan kesejahteraan masyarakat. Berdasarkan data BPS tahun 2019, sektor unggulan dan mata pencaharian di Kabupaten Labura adalah pertanian. Akan tetapi seiring berjalannya waktu usaha pertanian semakin menurun. Hal ini terjadi diduga karena perubahan tutupan lahan. Secara geografis pemekaran wilayah akan mempengaruhi perubahan tutupan penggunaan lahan. Oleh karena itu untuk mengetahui seberapa besar perubahan yang terjadi perlu dilakukan analisis tutupan lahan tahun 2010-2019, kurang lebih 10 tahun setelah masa pemekaran terjadi. Analisis tutupan lahan satu dekade ini dilakukan menggunakan Citra Landsat yang diolah melalui metode klasifikasi penggunaan dan perubahan lahan. Hasilnya Kabupaten Labura mengalami perubahan yang relatif lambat. Perkebunan karet dan sawit mengalami perluasan lahan yang besar sedangkan hutan mangrove berubah fungsi dominan menjadi perkebunan. Sementara lahan terbuka mengalami perubahan terkecil yang juga mengarah ke perkebunan. Setelah dilakukan analisis tutupan lahan, dilakukan Seleksi Bivariat dengan menggunakan metode Logistic Regression Analysis (LRA) untuk mendapatkan faktor pendorong perubahan. Ada 7 variabel yang diduga mempengaruhi perubahan yaitu 1) jenis tanah, 2) kemiringan lereng, 3) curah hujan, 4) jumlah penduduk, 5) kepadatan penduduk, 6) jarak dari pusat kecamatan, dan 7) jarak dengan jalan utama. Hasil analisis menunjukan 6 variabel mempengaruhi dan hanya 1 variabel yakni curah hujan yang tidak mempengaruhi. Nilai positif pengaruh terbesar adalah jenis tanah. Semakin subur tanah maka perubahan semakin cepat terjadi. Nilai negatif pengaruh terbesar adalah jarak dari pusat Kota yaitu kecamatan. Semakin jauh jarak dengan pusat kota, perubahan semakin cepat terjadi. Hal ini terjadi karena perkebunan dan pertanian yang lebih banyak mengalami perubahan berada jauh dari pusat pemukiman kecamatanan. Rekomendasi berupa perlunya zonasi tata ruang dan pengawasan alih fungsi lahan.
Analisis Dampak Sosial Ekonomi Budaya Kegiatan Eksplorasi Panasbumi di WKP Baturraden (Studi Kasus di Desa Karangtengah, Kecamatan Cilongok, Kabupaten Banyumas)
Authors: Ramadhan Muhammad Fadil , Muslihudin Muslihudin , Effendi Mukhtar
Published: April 2021

Hadirnya energi panasbumi sebagai Energi Baru Terbarukan (EBT) rupanya bukan berarti hadir tanpa suatu dampak bagi lingkungan disekitarnya. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui bagaimana dampak sosial-ekonomi-budaya yang terjadi dan merumuskan strategi pengelolaan lingkungan komponen sosial ekonomi budaya guna meminimasi dampak negatif dan mengoptimasi dampak positif dari kegiatan eksplorasi panasbumi WKP Baturraden di Desa Karangtengah, Kecamatan Cilongok, Kabupaten Banyumas. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian metode campuran dengan pendekatan eksplanatoris sekuensial, yaitu dengan menggabungkan metode kuantitatif dan metode kualitatif. Metode kuantitatif yang digunakan berupa analisis besar dampak serta analisis sifat dampak. Berdasarkan hasil pengolahan data secara kuantitatif tersebut, selanjutnya dianalisis secara kualitatif menggunakan matrik SWOT untuk perumusan strategi pengelolaan lingkungan komponen sosial ekonomi budaya. Pengumpulan data primer dilakukan menggunakan kuesioner dan observasi. Sedangkan data sekunder diperoleh dari studi literatur yang memiliki ketkaitan dengan topik penelitian. Berdasarkan hasil analis yang dilakukan dalam penelitian ini, menjelaskan bahwa dampak yang terjadi atas kegiatan eksplorasi panasbumi di WKP Baturraden bervariasi, dari yang tidak menimbulkan dampak hingga berdampak sangat besar. Sedangkan berdasarkan sifat dampaknya terdapat dampak yang cukup penting hingga sangat penting. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian ini dapat disimpulkan bahwa terdapat 2 dampak dengan bobot besar dampak dan sifat dampak tertinggi, yaitu penurunan kenyamanan masyarakat dan perubahan persepsi masyarakat. Dengan kondisi tersebut, meninjau tingkat urgensi kegiatan eksplorasi panasbumi dalam rangka pengupayaan energi baru terbarukan maka strategi pengelolaan lingkungan yang paling tepat pada komponen sosial ekonomi budaya berdasar analisis SWOT adalah menggunakan strategi devensif yang memadukan antara kekuatan internal dengan peluang eksternal dan strategi diversifikasi yang memadukan antara kekuatan internal dengan ancaman eksternal.
River Water Quality Based on Macrozoobentic Bioindicators in the Wonocolo Traditional Oil Mining Area
Authors: Rahmawati Laily Agustina , Afiati Norma , Putranto Thomas Triadi
Published: April 2021

Many studies declared traditional oil mining in Wonocolo caused pollution, including river pollution.  During Covid-19 Pandemic, traditional oil mining in Wonocolo has been interrupted because world oil prices decreased. This made selling price of crude oil in Wonocolo declined. This made traditional oil mining decreased because oil wells were temporarily closed. The decrease in traditional oil mining might affect river water quality in Wonocolo. In a prior  study, the researcher had investigated water quality of Bungsu and Kragsaan River in Wonocolo, based on physicochemical parameters. The river had improved quality during Covid-19 Pandemic, seen from the decrease in the content of several chemical pollutants. Through this study, the researcher examined macrozoobentos community structure as a bio indicator of water quality, like assessing water quality of Bungsu and Kragsaan River based on biological indicators. This study used observation method by determining sample points purposively. Sample of macrozoobentos was analyzed using biodiversity index of Shannon-Wiener, species evennes index, and dominance index. Results of study showed Bungsu River had low biodiversity (H’ index 0.000 – 1.040), distressed community at B-1 and B-3 but stable at B-2, like high dominance at B-1 and B-3 but low at B-2. Kragsaan River also had low biodiversity (H’ index 0.000 – 1.010), unstable community at K-1 and K-3 like distressed at K-2, and low dominance at K-2 and K-3 but medium at K-1. Based on H’ index, Bungsu River was in the heavily polluted category at B-1 and B-3 and the medium polluted category at B-2. Meanwhile, Kragsaan River was in the heavily polluted category at K-1 and K-2 and the medium polluted category at K-3. This means although decreased levels of chemical pollutants at the sampling locations meant an increase in quality of water body, river ecosystem had not been able to rejuvenate condition during Covid-19 Pandemic.
Learning from COVID-19 to futureproof assessment in Business Education
Authors: Barker Sandra , Suri Harsh , Gregory Brent , Warner Audrea , White Amanda , Venkiteswaran Vivek , Lightfoot Una
Published: April 2021

The prevalence of face to face invigilated exams in Business Schools across Australia and New Zealand (indeed around the world) needed to be reconsidered quickly during the recent COVID-19 pandemic crisis. With teaching and learning activities moving to online mode due to social distancing requirements, the need to consider technology enabled assessments and how they could be efficiently and effectively implemented became a crucial focus of universities in early 2020, affecting staff and students alike. This paper looks at the experiences of a group of academics and academic developers from five ANZ Business Schools and the lessons that they learnt from these experiences.
An improved non-enzymatic electrochemical sensor amplified with CuO nanostructures for sensitive determination of uric acid
Authors: Buledi Jamil A. , Ameen Sidra , Memon Saba A. , Fatima Almas , Solangi Amber R. , Mallah Arfana , Karimi Fatemeh , Malakmohammadi Salima , Agarwal Shilpi , Gupta Vinod Kumar
Published: April 2021

This study displays the facile and fluent electrochemical determination of uric acid (UA) through exceptional copper oxide nanostructures (CuO), as an effective sensing probe. The copper oxide nanostructures were fabricated via an aqueous chemical growth method using sodium hydroxide as a reducing agent, which massively hold hydroxide source. Copper oxide nanostructures showed astonishing electrocatalytic behavior in the detection of UA. Different characterization techniques such as XRD, FESEM, and EDS were exploited to determine crystalline nature, morphologies, and elemental composition of synthesized nanostructures. The cyclic voltammetry (CV) was subjected to investigate the electrochemical performance of UA using copper oxide nanostructures modified glassy carbon electrode CuO/GCE. The CV parameters were optimized at a scan rate of 50 mV/s with −0.7 to 0.9 potential range, and the UA response was investigated at 0.4 mV. PBS buffer of pH 7.4 was exploited as a supporting electrolyte. The linear dynamic range for UA was 0.001–351 mM with a very low limit of detection observed as 0.6 µM. The proposed sensor was successfully applied in urine samples for the detection of UA with improved sensitivity and selectivity.
Assessment of the mercury contamination of landfilled and recovered foundry waste – a case study
Authors: Bożym Marta , Klojzy-Karczmarczyk Beata
Published: April 2021

Environmental pollution by mercury is a local problem in Poland and concerns mainly industrial sites. Foundry waste are usually characterized by low mercury content compared to other heavy metals. Spent foundry sands with low content of Hg are the main component of foundry waste. However, Hg may be present in foundry dust, which may also be landfilled. Due to Hg toxicity, even a minimal content may have a negative impact on biota. This study focuses on assessing the mercury content of landfilled foundry waste (LFW), to assess its toxicity. Currently tested waste is recovered and reused as a road aggregate. The results were compared with the mercury content of local soils as the reference level. Waste samples were taken from foundry landfill. The mercury content, fractional composition, organic matter (OM) and total organic carbon content, pH and elementary composition of waste were analysed. It was found that the mercury content in LFW was very low, at the level of natural content in soils and did not pose a threat to the environment. The statistical analysis shows that mercury was not associated with OM of the waste, in contrast to soils, probably due to different types of OM in both materials.
Wild Resources in the Economy of Bronze and Early Iron Ages Between Oder and Bug Rivers – Source Overview
Authors: Ślusarska Katarzyna
Published: April 2021

The archaeological discussion still appears to largely disregard the role of natural resources in the early agricultural economy of Central Europe. Cereal cultivation and animal husbandry strategies remain a central area of studies. Wild resources are the only proxy data helping to reconstruct the strategies mentioned above. The data for the assessment of the wild resource role in consumption strategies are scarce. Plant and animal remains preserved within the archaeological sites represent one of the very few sources of information. The dominant funeral rite – cremation – leaves no opportunity for insight into the human bones’ diet composition signatures. This study’s primary goal is to gather in one place all information concerning wild resource food use based on archaeological data, which is scattered through various publications. The study’s time scope corresponds to Lusatian, post-Lusatian (Pomeranian Face Urn Culture), and contemporary cultures (Western Baltic Kurgans Culture). It covers roughly the time span 1400–400 BC, which is the late Bronze and early Iron Ages. Only data from a homogenous settlement context was included within the presented review. Although the reviewed literature methodology does not always meet the modern standard, it still offers insight into broader plant and animal food use in the past. The animal bone analysis is usually based on hand-collected bone material or sifted soil samples. Malacological materials come from sampled features. Some clam mussels were also identified among the bone materials submitted for zooarchaeological analysis. All plant materials come from sampled features undergoing soil analysis.
Modified Halpin–Tsai equation for predicting interfacial effect in water diffusion process
Authors: Lei Yongpeng , Luo Ling , Kang Zhenhang , Zhang Jifeng , Zhang Boming
Published: April 2021

Interfacial degradation is the main reason for deterioration of mechanical properties of composites in hydrothermal environments. In this study, the effect of the interphase on water diffusion in two types of unidirectional continuous carbon fiber-reinforced polyamide 6 (CF/PA6) composites is investigated through experimental measurements, theoretical analysis, and numerical simulation. The moisture diffusion coefficient of composite at different environmental temperatures is characterized by water immersion tests for analyzing the barrier and accelerating effects of the interphase layer. Based on the experimental results, the three-phase Halpin–Tsai model is derived and validated, and then the critical diffusivity is obtained to quantify the interfacial effect during the diffusion process. To further validate the present three-phase Halpin–Tsai model, the stable and transient finite element models of moisture diffusion are developed. It is found that the critical diffusivity coefficient of the interphase for the CF/PA6 composite system is 7.31 times higher than that of the matrix.
A combinatorial expression for the group inverse of symmetric M-matrices
Authors: Carmona A. , Encinas A.M. , Mitjana M.
Published: April 2021

By using combinatorial techniques, we obtain an extension of the matrix-tree theorem for general symmetric M-matrices with no restrictions, this means that we do not have to assume the diagonally dominance hypothesis. We express the group inverse of a symmetric M–matrix in terms of the weight of spanning rooted forests. In fact, we give a combinatorial expression for both the determinant of the considered matrix and the determinant of any submatrix obtained by deleting a row and a column. Moreover, the singular case is obtained as a limit case when certain parameter goes to zero. In particular, we recover some known results regarding trees. As examples that illustrate our results we give the expressions for the Group inverse of any symmetric M-matrix of order two and three. We also consider the case of the cycle C
4 an example of a non-contractible situation topologically different from a tree. Finally, we obtain some relations between combinatorial numbers, such as Horadam, Fibonacci or Pell numbers and the number of spanning rooted trees on a path.
Astrocytic IGF-IRs Induce Adenosine-Mediated Inhibitory Downregulation and Improve Sensory Discrimination
Authors: Noriega-Prieto José Antonio , Maglio Laura Eva , Zegarra-Valdivia Jonathan A. , Pignatelli Jaime , Fernandez Ana M. , Martinez-Rachadell Laura , Fernandes Jansen , Núñez Ángel , Araque Alfonso , Torres-Alemán Ignacio , Fernández de Sevilla David
Published: April 2021

Insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) signaling plays a key role in learning and memory processes. While the effects of IGF-I on neurons have been studied extensively, the involvement of astrocytes in IGF-I signaling and the consequences on synaptic plasticity and animal behavior remain unknown. We have found that IGF-I induces long-term potentiation (LTPIGFI) of the postsynaptic potentials that is caused by a long-term depression of inhibitory synaptic transmission in mice. We have demonstrated that this long-lasting decrease in the inhibitory synaptic transmission is evoked by astrocytic activation through its IGF-I receptors (IGF-IRs). We show that LTPIGFInot only increases the output of pyramidal neurons, but also favors the NMDAR-dependent LTP, resulting in the crucial information processing at the barrel cortex since specific deletion of IGF-IR in cortical astrocytes impairs the whisker discrimination task. Our work reveals a novel mechanism and functional consequences of IGF-I signaling on cortical inhibitory synaptic plasticity and animal behavior, revealing that astrocytes are key elements in these processes.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTInsulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) signaling plays key regulatory roles in multiple processes of brain physiology, such as learning and memory. Yet, the underlying mechanisms remain largely undefined. Here we demonstrate that astrocytes respond to IGF-I signaling, elevating their intracellular Ca2+and stimulating the release of ATP/adenosine, which triggers the LTD of cortical inhibitory synapses, thus regulating the behavioral task performance related to cortical sensory information processing. Therefore, the present work represents a major conceptual advance in our knowledge of the cellular basis of IGF-I signaling in brain function, by including for the first time astrocytes as key mediators of IGF-I actions on synaptic plasticity, cortical sensory information discrimination and animal behavior.
Nitrate Nitrogen (NO3-N) Export Regimes Based on High-frequency Measurements in the Kuzlovec Stream Catchment
Authors: Sapač Klaudija , Bezak Nejc , Vidmar Andrej , Rusjan Simon
Published: April 2021

In the paper, the determination of nitrate nitrogen (NO3-N) export regimes from the Kuzlovec catchment during rainfall events is presented employing various determination methods: the ratio of coefficient of variation of NO3-N concentration and discharge (CVC/CVQ), the slope of the regression line to the points of concentration and discharge logarithms (b), both mentioned indices together, and the relative change of the NO3-N concentration during the event (Crs). According to previous analyses, the amount of exported NO3-N during rainfall events comprises approx. 30% of the total export amount, while from a temporal point of view, rainfall events represent only 10% of the time. Export regimes were identified as chemostatic (concentration does not change with discharge) and chemodynamic (concentration changes with discharge). The latter were further divided into dilution and flushing regimes. 43 rainfall events from the period April 2018–April 2020 were included in the analysis. For these events, high-frequency data of 20-minute intervals were available for concentration and discharge. All applied indices showed that the catchment responds differently from a concentration-discharge perspective and that chemodynamic behaviour is predominant, with flushing most frequently prevalent. A possible seasonal connection with regime diversity was tested using the non-parametric, statistical Wilcoxon test. A statistically significant difference was not found for any of the indices. Nevertheless, a detailed analysis of CVC/CVQ revealed that the ratio is likely related to seasonal variability in rainfall characteristics and consequently to the hydrological conditions in the catchment. Hence, it would be of great importance to include data about rainfall and hydrological properties in future studies.
Thyroid status regulates the tumor microenvironment delineating breast cancer fate
Authors: Sterle Helena Andrea , Hildebrandt Ximena , Valenzuela Álvarez Matías , Paulazo María Alejandra , Gutierrez Luciana Mariel , Klecha Alicia Juana , Cayrol Florencia , Díaz Flaqué María Celeste , Rosemblit Cinthia , Barreiro Arcos María Laura , Colombo Lucas , Bolontrade Marcela Fabiana , Medina Vanina Araceli , Cremaschi Graciela Alicia
Published: April 2021

The patient’s hormonal context plays a crucial role in the outcome of cancer. However, the association between thyroid disease and breast cancer risk remains unclear. We evaluated the effect of thyroid status on breast cancer growth and dissemination in an immunocompetent mouse model. For this, hyperthyroid and hypothyroid Balb/c mice were orthotopically inoculated with triple-negative breast cancer 4T1 cells. Tumors from hyperthyroid mice showed an increased growth rate and an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, characterized by increased IL-10 levels and decreased percentage of activated cytotoxic T cells. On the other hand, delayed tumor growth in hypothyroid animals was associated with increased tumor infiltration of activated CD8+ cells and a high IFNγ/IL-10 ratio. Paradoxically, hypothyroid mice developed a higher number of lung metastasis than hyperthyroid animals. This was related to an increased secretion of tumor CCL2 and an immunosuppressive systemic environment, with increased proportion of regulatory T cells and IL-10 levels in spleens. A lower number of lung metastasis in hyperthyroid mice was related to the reduced presence of mesenchymal stem cells in tumors and metastatic sites. These animals also exhibited decreased percentages of regulatory T lymphocytes and myeloid-derived suppressor cells in spleens but increased activated CD8+ cells and the IFNγ/IL-10 ratio. Therefore, thyroid hormones modulate the cellular and cytokine content of the breast tumor microenvironment. A better understanding of the mechanisms involved in these effects could be a starting point for the discovery of new therapeutic targets for breast cancer.
Aproximación institucional a la trata de seres humanos en España: valoración crítica
Authors: Villacampa Carolina , Torres Clàudia
Published: April 2021

La trata de seres humanos constituye una realidad intrínsecamente ligada a los movimientos migratorios que demanda un abordaje centrado en la detección y protección de las víctimas. En el presente trabajo de investigación se analiza su aproximación institucional en España con base en una encuesta cumplimentada por 150 entidades, unidades u organismos que pueden ocuparse de ella. El estudio se focaliza, de un lado, en determinar cómo afloran los casos de trata y qué entidades son las más eficientes en su detección. De otro, en analizar la forma en que las víctimas son asistidas y protegidas, incluyendo una valoración de la aplicación de mecanismos de tutela previstos en la Ley de extranjería para garantizar su permanencia en España. Los resultados confirman que la aproximación institucional a la trata sigue centrada en la explotación sexual de mujeres extranjeras y propone alternativas para superar dicho sesgo.
Comparison of Endodontic Treatment Qualities of Molar Teeth Performed by Endodontists and Practitioners: A Radiographic Analysis
Authors: İNCE YUSUFOĞLU Selen , SARIÇAM Esma
Published: April 2021

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the radiographic technical quality of root fillings and the incidence of iatrogenic errors in treatments performed by endodontists and dentists.Methods: 1135 radiographic records of endodontic treatments performed by endodontists and dentists were qualified to be further investigated. Radiographs were assessed by two independent endodontists. The length and the density of the obturations and iatrogenic errors were investigated. Chi-square tests were used for statistics.Results: According to iatrogenic errors; the presence of instrument fractures was significantly higher in the endodontists, and likewise, in the mesiobuccal canals of the mandibular teeth (p<0.05). dentists were found more likely to treat the root canal in poor radio-opacity and short filling-overfilling (p<0.05). no significant difference was found between the groups in other iatrogenic errors (p>0.05).Conclusion: The results of this retrospective study show that the canal treatment performed by endodontists were better in terms of the quality of the root canal filling than dentists.
El papel del derecho comunitario andino en la temática del medio ambiente desde las competencias de los municipios
Authors: Antolinez Sánchez Edwin Francisco
Published: April 2021

Teniendo en cuenta la importancia de la relación generada entre los cuatro ordenamientos jurídicos de la Comunidad Andina (CAN) y, por supuesto, de Colombia desde la correcta aplicación de políticas públicas que propendan por la protección y conservación del medio ambiente por parte de los municipios, el presente artículo pretende destacar el papel del derecho comunitario andino en la temática del medio ambiente desde las competencias de los municipios. De este modo, el artículo desarrolla las siguientes temáticas: 1) la naturaleza jurídica del derecho comunitario andino; 2) para qué sirve y por qué existe el derecho comunitario andino; 3) el marco normativo de la CAN y de Colombia referente al medio ambiente en los municipios, y 4) el papel, la importancia y la finalidad del derecho comunitario andino en relación con el medio ambiente frente a los municipios. Consecuentemente, el problema de investigación planteado se basa en la siguiente pregunta: ¿el papel del derecho comunitario andino en la temática del medio ambiente busca generar impacto positivo o negativo desde las competencias de los municipios? Para el efecto, se considera que el marco normativo de los municipios no atiende las decisiones supranacionales de la CAN desde la perspectiva medioambiental.