bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Transit Performance And Traffic Congestion in Downtown Toronto Using Big Data
Authors: Yuen Christopher Chun Kong
Published: May 2021

This exploratory research evaluates the linkages between roadway operations and mixed-traffic transit performance on three arterial corridors in Toronto- King Street, Queen Street, and Dundas Street. Using Inrix traffic speed probe data as well as GPS location data from the Toronto Transit Commission’s vehicles between January 2014 and June 2016, this research visualizes spatial and temporal trends in traffic congestion and transit headway regularity. Three regression models were estimated that indicate both traffic congestion and terminus departure times are statistically significant, but weak predictors of mixed-traffic transit reliability. These models leave most of the variability unexplained. The findings highlight opportunities and limitations for congestion management and transit scheduling as tools for improving headway reliability. They also illustrate the complexity of the relationships between transportation modes in downtown Toronto.
Options for Homes in Metro Vancouver: the creation of cost-effective home ownership opportunities
Authors: Plant Graham
Published: May 2021

Housing affordability is a frequently discussed issue in many Canadian cities; none more than Vancouver and the surrounding region. Data on housing stress in Metro Vancouver indicates the problem is real, and that home ownership is out of reach for most low and moderate income earners in the region. A preliminary feasibility analysis indicates that a model created by Options for Homes, a non‐profit housing provider founded in Toronto, would produce units for significantly less than comparable private developments. While expanding Options for Homes would not be a panacea for affordability in the region, and there are a number of associated challenges with applying the model in Metro Vancouver, there is merit to the further exploration of a model that provides below-market home ownership opportunities to households currently priced out of the housing market.
Light rail transit as a tool for urban brownfield revitalization
Authors: McCully Davin
Published: May 2021

In Europe and in North America, Light Rail Transit (LRT) is increasingly being seen as a viable and attractive transportation option which is not as cost prohibitive as heavy rail, yet carries more passengers and travels at higher speeds than traditional bus transit. Brownfield regeneration is at the forefront of urban land use policy, as cities try to reign in sprawl and address local economic, social, and environmental implications of such underused or abandoned sites. This paper will examine the relationship between the implementation of LRT in urban environments, and how that investment in transportation infrastructure affects the regeneration of urban brownfield sites. This will be achieved through the use of three urban case studies, each with subpopulations between 100,000 – 500,000. Key Words: Light Rail Transit, Brownfield, Transportation, Sustainability, Urban Mobility, Urban Financing, Municipal Plans and Policies.
Parks planning and mental health : the urban planner's role and influence in the relationship between healthy minds and greenspaces
Authors: Haikin Berta
Published: May 2021

Greenspace is known to have positive effects on mental health. The proximity to, accessibility concerning, and maintenance of greenspaces are all factors which influence a person’s mental health. Investigating this relationship in the context of the City of Toronto, this research explores the urban planner’s role in facilitating the planning of effective greenspace to support its positive effects on mental health. The snowball-sampling method was used to collect a small, but diverse set of professional interviews to understand the degree of exposure that the planning realm has to this relationship. The culmination of the primary research, supported by evidence and policy, results in a summary of recommendations to urban planners and policy makers. Involvement in Official Plan Review, intentional language pertaining to greenspace and mental health, and emphasis on the relationship in professional education were themes shared by professionals and deduced as missing components within the literature.

Key words: parkland, greenspace, mental health, planning tools, planning policy, urban parks, urban planning, Toronto Official Plan
A Case Study Of 100 Resilient Cities: Does The 100 Resilient Cities Model Provide For A Robust Decision-Making Framework?
Authors: Empey Trevor
Published: May 2021

Background: Rapid urbanization continues to occur on a global scale with the majority of the world’s population residing in cities of various sizes and scales. Cities and their residents are becoming increasingly vulnerable to climate change and its impacts. Cities will continue to face social, political and economic impacts which particularly affect the most vulnerable populations. Municipal governments have focused upon resistance and control when dealing with complex problems such as natural disasters and their impacts. This research focuses on the 100 Resilient cities Model to assess its robustness as a decision-making framework in relation to resilience and adaptive governance.

Methods: This researches relies upon 100 Resilient Cities as a case study. This project utilizes qualitative analysis of the 100 Resilient Cities model and critical assess its robustness through review of ecological and social-ecological resilience literature.

Conclusions: This paper concludes that the 100 Resilient Cities model is well-grounded in ecological and social-ecological systems literature. There is potential for the 100 Resilient Cities model to provide urban planners and policymakers with an effective decision-making tool in order to solve complex problems which exist within municipal governance structures.
Involving private sector developers: building affordable rental housing in the City of Toronto
Authors: Cohrs Andrew
Published: May 2021

This research makes the argument for increasing private sector participation in affordable housing development in the City of Toronto. It explores the demand for affordable rental housing in Toronto, examines the national, provincial and municipal legislative situation affecting Toronto and demonstrates the potential for the municipality of Toronto to update and implement policies to produce more affordable housing with private sector developers. Policies used across Canada and the United States to encourage or require affordable housing contributions from private sector developers are explored and case studies of Vancouver, Montreal and San Francisco highlight how municipalities facing similar housing pressures have attempted to address their situations. Interviews with key stakeholders contributed Toronto-specific ideas regarding private sector involvement in the construction of affordable rental housing as well as the accompanying policies that have potential in Toronto. Actions and policies are recommended for the consideration of the Toronto municipal government.
Strip plazas in the suburbs: a redevelopment framework for convenience centres
Authors: Hickey Natalie Elizabeth
Published: May 2021

Convenience centres are a prominent retail form in the suburban communities of Toronto. Built to satisfy the goods and service needs of the people who inhabit the suburbs, convenience centres were first built in the post-war era, and consist of one-story retail units connected by a shared canopy. They have one or more rows of parking adjacent to the street and are designed to create a convenient experience for drivers. Convenience centres in Toronto typically occupy real estate along the Avenues and major arterial roads: areas designated in the City of Toronto Official plan to support future intensification, density, and housing. Therefore, the research in this project describes a set of recommendations in the form of a framework for redevelopment of convenience centres. It also outlines a case study for a site in Scarborough, Ontario, in which this framework was applied.

Key words: retail; strip plaza; convenience centre; suburbs; redevelopment; Toronto;
Top Marks for Quality Parks
Authors: Roth Jennifer
Published: May 2021

As the City of Toronto and the Greater Golden Horseshoe continue to become more densely populated resulting from the Provincial Growth Plan, increased stresses on existing parks spaces will occur due to overuse. The focus of this research is to evaluate Toronto’s effectiveness in maintaining quality park spaces according to the Park’s Plan (2013-2017) in the City through the trial of a Park Report Card that focuses on basic amenities in parks in the densest wards. The methodology was adapted from New York City’s Park Report Card which involved the definition of basic amenities and a scoring scale for their functionality. The observed parks did not meet quality park standards according to the Parks Plan and a series of recommendations to improve the level of quality were provided.
Analysis of vacant and abandoned properties in the City of Toronto
Authors: Fletcher Vanessa
Published: May 2021

The city of Toronto is in the midst of unprecedented development fuelled by low-interest mortgage rates, foreign investment and staggering commute times. Despite this, a small percentage of properties remain vacant or abandoned in Toronto. This paper identifies the types of properties that are vacant and abandoned, assesses the property stock for degree of decay and re-examines the appropriateness of the classification of 'vacant' and 'abandoned'.
This research indicates that vacant buildings in Toronto transition to abandonment for reasons that may be different from American cities. Vacancy in Toronto may be more affected by lengthy planning approvals, development financing and issues of site acquisition, more than urban decay or blight.
The research further indicates that most vacant and abandoned buildings in Toronto are residential, commercial vacancy is transient by nature and industrial abandonment is found mostly along existing railway corridors.
What Will the Legacy of the Pan American and Parapan Games 2015 be for Toronto? Looking at Past Successes and Failures to Inform Toronto's Experience
Authors: Jailal Natasha P.
Published: May 2021

The 2015 Pan American and Parapan American Games will be hosted in Toronto. The Athletes’ Village is being constructed in the West Don Lands and post Games will be transformed into a mixed-use community. Due to the scale of the project and brief duration of the Games, the creation of this new neighbourhood in Toronto is a sizeable undertaking but has the potential to accommodate Toronto’s anticipated growth and serve to connect the Waterfront from east to west.

The central issue for this paper is identifying the legacy aspects of the Athletes’ Village and how stakeholders can work to mitigate any potential negative impacts identified. The investigation will focus on the social, environmental and economic impacts. Recommendations for stakeholders are presented based on the research approach which included interviews, a review of literature as well as case studies of previous sporting events in Winnipeg, Vancouver, Calgary, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and Guadalajara, Mexico.
Building Cities for Families: Attracting and Retaining Households
Authors: Hirchberg Nechama
Published: May 2021

Planning for sustainable cities means creating complete communities with increased residential densities, housing choices, and services that attract a diversity of populations at all stages of their life. This exploratory study identifies the challenges that discourage households with children from moving to the downtown area and explores the public and private initiatives and strategies that can be used to attract and retain such families in downtown neighbourhoods by providing required infrastructure, amenities, and services. Data shows that households with children are underrepresented in downtown Toronto compared to the rest of the city. This exploratory study identifies the factors that the downtown area needs to provide long-term options for households with children, such as affordable and suitable housing, accessible schools and play spaces, and an overall attitude shift about the place of families in downtown Toronto.
DEVELOPMENT OF HUMAN CAPITAL IN UKRAINE THROUGH EXPANDED PUBLIC FINANCES
Authors:   SSI ", Londar Lidia ,   Institute of Educational Analytics"
Published: May 2021

The article presents the results of the study of opportunities for human capital development through the use of financial levers by the state authorities. The effectiveness of budget policy for financing health care and education as key industries being instrumental in the creation of human capital necessary for reforms and innovative economic development is analyzed. The gap in budget funding for education and medicine in Ukraine is shown, which is visibly lower not only in comparison with world practice but also the norms established by national legislation. The measures to increase the efficiency of the state’s efforts to develop human capital are proposed, in particular, an increase in budget resources used for these goals by providing a high level of functionality of public finances. To achieve those tasks it is necessary to improve the public budget policy, meaning to improve budget planning and forecasting for financial resources for the education and healthcare sector; to strengthen the institutional capacity and effectiveness of regulatory frameworks; to expand interactions and coordination of institutions managing public finances and local self-government bodies to strengthen the health and education systems; to ensure transparency and effective supervision of assigned resources and their effective use. In particular, it has been shown that additional budget funds for socio-economic development may be freed by decreasing debt load and reducing the cost of servicing public debt, balancing the budget of the Pension Fund, increasing efficiency of cooperation with IFOs.
ПРОТИДІЯ КОНСЦІЄНТАЛЬНИМ ВПЛИВАМ РОСІЙСЬКОЇ ПРОПАГАНДИ НА ОСОБОВИЙ СКЛАД ЗБРОЙНИХ СИЛ ТА НАСЕЛЕННЯ УКРАЇНИ
Authors: Мулява В. , Григор'єв В.
Published: May 2021

В статті розглянута сутність, технології та особливості консцієнтальних впливів в системі сучасної гібридної війни Росії проти України. Показані цілі, напрямки та завдання підривної російської пропаганди по руйнуванню громадянської та патріотичної свідомості особового складу Збройних Сил та населення України. Розкриті основні напрями протидії консцієнтальним впливам російськой пропаганди.
ЧИННИКИ ПСИХОЛОГІЧНОЇ СТІЙКОСТІ ОСІБ, ЩО НАДАЮТЬ ДОМЕДИЧНУ ДОПОМОГУ
Authors: Свідерська О. , Кочетова К.
Published: May 2021

Розглянуто основні чинники психологічної ресурсності осіб, що надають домедичну допомогу. Визначено, що головними чинниками, що можуть впливати на стан саморегуляції емоційних станів реагувальника-мотоцикліста є певний рівень його особистісної тривожності  та фрустрації.
ТРАНСФОРМАЦІЯ МАСОВОЇ ПОЛІТИЧНОЇ СВІДОМОСТІ В УМОВАХ МОДЕРНІЗАЦІЇ ПОЛІТИЧНОЇ СИСТЕМИ УКРАЇНИ
Authors: Чорна І.
Published: May 2021

У статті розглянуто проблему трансформації масової політичної свідомості в умовах модернізації політичної системи України. Визначено, що політична свідомість формується під впливом не тільки національно-культурних особливостей країни, рівня її економічного, соціального і технологічного розвитку, але й конкретної соціально-політичної обстановки, у якій вона перебуває. Було виокремлено специфічні характеристики масової політичної свідомості у суспільствах нових незалежних держав, до яких належить й Україна.
ВІКОВІ АСПЕКТИ КРЕАТИВНОСТІ В МОЛОДШОМУ ШКІЛЬНОМУ ВІЦІ
Authors: Воронова О. , Барчій М.
Published: May 2021

У статті проаналізовано  погляди вітчизняних та зарубіжних науковців на проблему креативності, її структуру та ознаки. Підкреслено роль молодшого шкільного віку для розвитку креативності. Висвітлено психолого-педагогічні підходи до розвитку креативності учнів початкової школи. Наведено рекомендації педагогам щодо розвитку креативності школярів.
ПРОФЕСІЙНА РЕАДАПТАЦІЯ ДЕМОБІЛІЗОВАНИХ ВІЙСЬКОВОСЛУЖБОВЦІВ: СЦЕНАРНЕ ПРОГНОЗУВАННЯ МАЙБУТНЬОГО
Authors: Горішня K.
Published: May 2021

Статтю присвячено особливостям  професійної реадаптації демобілізованих учасників АТО/ООС з акцентом на сценарному прогнозуванні майбутнього. Виділено групи необхідності в реадаптації (завершена, процесуальна, дезадаптивна) та досліджені сценарії уявного майбутнього: «афгансько-чорнобильский», «уникнення реадаптацї», «страх перед зміною влади»,  «активне незадоволення владою».
ВПЛИВ РЕКЛАМИ ЛІКІВ НА ЕМОЦІЙНИЙ СТАН УКРАЇНЦІВ
Authors: Березовська Л. , Гільчер К.
Published: May 2021

У статті представлено результати теоретичного та емпіричного дослідження впливу реклами ліків на емоційний стан українців під час пандемії коронавірусної інфекції COVID-19. Описано правові аспекти, що стосуються реклами взагалі і реклами лікарських засобів зокрема в Україні та світі. Описано компоненти психологічного впливу реклами на особистість, способи маніпулювання у рекламних оголошеннях.
ОСОБЛИВОСТІ КОМУНІКАТИВНОЇ КОМПЕТЕНТНОСТІ ЛІКАРЯ-КАРДІОЛОГА З ПАЦІЄНТОМ
Authors: Кушнєрьова А.
Published: May 2021

У статті розглядається питання емпіричного дослідження особливостей комунікативної компетентності лікаря-кардіолога з пацієнтом. На констатувальному етапі експерименту в дослідженні взяли участь  медичні працівники кардіологічного профілю різних медичних закладів. Подаються результати емпіричного дослідження.
A Joint Manifesto for Design Studios based on Residuals and Experiences
Authors: Kılıçaslan Hare , Kalaycı Pınar Dinç
Published: May 2021

Architectural education encompasses different approaches from past to present; it is continuously researched and is both vocational and personality training. An updated manifesto for the current era is essential to ensure that the design approaches and tools updated by the boundless opportunities presented by the 21st century do not overwhelm the proven principles from the past. In the early 21st century, the restructuring process of architectural education is being reawakened through unique education approaches. The studio that constitutes the backbone of design education must also produce the manifesto. Manifesto principles that express the approaches related to the stages and are fictionalised through binary propositions need to provide a paradigm that exceeds a linear process for the studio environment. The proposition for all actors of the design process and learning programmes is based on an independent configuration in which studios focus on learners. Manifestos need to be renewed as long as the epoch is flourishing, while concerns about the internalisation of design knowledge and ways of thinking, skills, and experiences exist. The present manifesto is also a future building block. To rest studio manifestos on a joint manifesto similar to one proposed in this text, because of renewed and diversified practices, it is necessary to maintain an architectural education that does not lose itself and people within the universe of infinite possibilities.
3D printing modeling of the digital skeleton of the horse
Authors: BAKICI Caner , GÜVENER Orçun , OTO Çağdaş
Published: May 2021

Veterinary anatomy education has become a field where theoretical knowledge has dominated considerably in general. Due to the limited amount of educational material and the presence of different kinds of animals, practical education remains in the background. The study is to point out the three dimensional (3D) printing models of the digital skeleton of the horse with all advantages and disadvantages such as anatomical accuracy, accessibility, and cost in veterinary anatomy. The proximal, middle, and distal phalanx of four horses were used. Bone samples were scanned using a multidetector computed tomography device. These images were processed with various software to rendering the 3D bone digital models. After the segmentation process was made, a fused deposition modeling printer and the polylactic acid filament were used to obtain 3D printing models. The proximal, middle, and distal phalanx were successfully printed. All samples were determined to preserve anatomical structures in high detail for veterinary anatomy education. The processes of 3D printing technology are considered to be advantageous in terms of cost, workload, and time. The process presented in this study can be applied widely to produce various bone models for veterinary anatomy education.
TEACHER-EDUCATOR VERSUS TEACHER-LEADER
Authors: Lamanauskas Vincentas
Published: May 2021

Recently, in Lithuanian educational discourse there has been a lot of discussion about leadership. This has become so popular phenomenon that quite often one even does not go deep into the most important parameters of this phenomenon. Leadership phenomenon is not a very new thing, having started to be investigated more exhaustively as far back as the second half of the 20th century, however, over the last decade a lot of attention has been devoted to this in Lithuania. One can reasonably assert, that this is even a matter of fashion. During the aforementioned period, various questions such as teacher leadership, leadership development in schools (as if everyone has to be only a leader), leadership influence on organisation management and other have been investigated in one way or another. On the other hand, quite a lot of attention has been devoted to school managers, having in mind that they should not be just managers, but real managers – leaders. There is no intention to discuss various leadership concepts or to give any recipes how to turn teachers and managers to leaders. Moreover, there exists a vast diversity of concepts. It is obvious, that poor, ineffective and unsuitable management affects the teachers and the teaching learning process itself. It is logical, that this aspect has to be evaluated, and only people suitably prepared and ready for this should become managers of educational institutions. On the other hand, it wouldn’t be fair to identify managers and management with leadership.
The Legal Aspect of Cancellation of a Marriage Due To Formed Identity (Case of Decision Number 586 / PDT.G / 2014 / PN. JAKSEL)
Authors: Rizki Riki Afri , Sriono Sriono , Risdalina Risdalina
Published: May 2021

This article examines the legal aspects of the cancellation of marriage due to identity forgery based on the case of the South Jakarta District Court Decision Number 586 / PDT.G / 2014 / PN.JAKEL , this is regulated in Law number 1 of 1974 concerning Marriage. This research uses normative juridical research, which refers to the provisions of positive laws and regulations in Indonesia among the laws and regulations on Marriage by knowing the procedures of the marriage law and making it a guide in resolving problems in society. The results of the study found indicators of legal aspects between husband and wife that arise because of marriage between them. AThere are different nationalities, so that it becomes a study of International Civil Law and mixed marriage problems in Indonesia between Jessica Iskandar and Ludwig Frans Willibald regarding the validity of the marriage certificate so that it can be canceled and legal consequences after marriage cancellation. So there are important things that need to be considered if there is someone foreigners or non-citizens of Indonesian citizens who will conduct a mixed marriage with an Indonesian citizen. The marriage procedure is regulated in the Implementation Regulation of the Marriage Law, namely Government Regulation No. 9 of 1975 So that there are important things that need to be considered in the applicable marriage law, it should be known about the legal aspects and legal consequences according to the legal aspects in Indonesia.
The Development of Tarutung Into a City
Authors: Siahaan Pertiwih , Agustono Budi
Published: May 2021

This article discusses the history of the formation of the city of Tarutung. This article answers the problem of how the city of Tarutung developed after the arrival of Western colonialism in the form of religion, military, administration and economy which encouraged the development of Tarutung City. This study uses the historical method through four stages: heuristics (collection of historical sources); verification (source criticism); interpretation (historical analysis and interpretation); and historiography (writing history). Sources as historical data obtained from a number of documents and literature from the colonial to post-colonial period. This study found that the existing Tarutung city was formed into a traditional city which was used as a trading center from a durian tree that grew in the middle of the village with the Batak Toba socio-culture that was implemented before the arrival of Western colonialism. The arrival and colonial influence made the identity of Tarutung City begin to develop both in terms of social, economic, and cultural aspects while maintaining the traditional cultural elements that still exist.
Effect of Liquidity, Asset Management, Leverage and Dividend Policy on Firm Value at Food and Beverages Companies Listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange
Authors: Andreas Andreas , Christin Christin , Wijaya Shelly Wijaya , Sembiring Jessi Charina
Published: May 2021

This study aims to analyze the effect of liquidity, asset management, leverage and dividend policy on firm value at Food and Beverages Companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The type of research used is quantitative research because the data used is numbers while the nature of this research is descriptive research. The population in this study amounted to 30 Food and Beverages Companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The research sample used is in the form of financial statements of Food and Beverages Companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange with a total of 20 companies from 2016-2019. The results of this study indicate that the current ratio, total asset turnover, debt to equity ratio and dividend payout ratio have a positive and significant effect on firm value at Food and Beverages Companies
Criminal Disparity in Law Enforcement to the Performers of Judi Togel in Simalungun Court State
Authors: Purba Mariah SM , Purba Anita
Published: May 2021

Gambling cases, especially lottery gambling, are a type of gambling that is rife in society. Courts are the last bastion for attendance seekers. Justice is not merely a place to punish but to get justice. However, the fact is that there are disparities in court decisions on the same case, namely lottery gambling at the Simalungun District Court. As for the problem is: whyCriminal disparities occur in terms of law enforcement against lottery gambling perpetrators at the Simalungun District Court and what efforts that can be made so that there is no disparity in decisions in lottery gambling cases. The research used is juridical legal research, research on laws whose position is the norm, namely the provisions of gambling crimes as regulated in the Criminal Code. Where the imposition of crimes against the same article is inconsistent, there are even disparities.
Electroencephalographic (EEG) correlation of clinical Seizure among Bangladeshi Patients
Authors: Chowdhury Ahmed Hossian , Chowdhury Rajib Nayan , Khan Sharif Uddin , Ghose Swapon Kumar , Wazib Amit , Alam Iftikher , Hasan ATM Hasibul , Shaha Kanol , Haque Badrul , Habib Mansur
Published: May 2021

To detect the changes in electro encephalogram (EEG) and correlate the findings with clinical seizure events among epilepsy patients. This retrospective chart review was carried out in the electrophysiology laboratory of Dhaka Medical College Hospital from January 2011 to December 2013, which included 1154 patients. EEG was obtained through scalp electrodes following international 10/20 system. Information regarding patients was collected from the laboratory register with the help of a checklist. The EEG findings and clinical seizure events were then compared. Among the 1154 patients, age varied from birth to 75 years. The mean age at presentation was 17±11.4 years and most of the patients were less than 10 years old (44.4%). The male (59.2%) female ratio was 3:2 in our study. Clinically diagnosed seizure was present in 970 patients (84.1%), among which Generalized tonic clonic seizure (GTCS) was the most common clinical type of seizure, followed by secondary generalized seizure in 19.4% (n=224) and focal seizure in 2% (n=30) patients and 6.8% (n=79) patients had pseudoseizure. Among the abnormal EEG (59%), generalized epileptiform discharge was found in 29%, whereas focal and secondary generalized discharge was found in 30%. The most common site of origin of epileptiform discharge was temporal lobe (28.3%). There was a negative correlation between EEG and history of seizure events (pearson correlation significance 0.33). Our study brings out the fact that EEG has a negative correlation with clinical seizure events.

CBMJ 2014 July: Vol. 03 No. 02 P: 03-08
Apolipoprotein E/intrauterine undernutrition interaction and hypercholesterolemia in children
Authors: Szitányi P , Pistulková H , Hubáček JA , Stuchlíková H , Poledne R
Published: May 2021

The inconsistency of data regarding intrauterine programming of cardiovascular risk factors may be largely caused by genetic predisposition and later lifestyle. We analyzed whether low birth weight and apolipoprotein E (Apo E) polymorphism participate in the onset of hypercholesterolemia in children. Our approach was based on hypothesis that genetically enhanced susceptibility of different individuals might influence the effects of intrauterine programming. Two groups were selected from 2000 children at the beginning of an ongoing study: high-cholesterol group (HCG, n=67) and low-cholesterol group as a control (LCG, n=72). Both groups were divided into tertilles according to birth weight and we compared birth weight and apo E gene polymorphism between and within groups. The birth weight in HCG was 0.3 kg lower than the controls (p<0.001). The frequency of apoE4 was 31 % in HCG and only 10 % in LCG. The frequency of apoE4+ genotypes was not significantly different between tertilles based on birth weight in HCG. We suppose that intrauterine undernutrition, demonstrated by a lower birth weight, participates in the development of hypercholesterolemia already in childhood. The effects of low birth weight and the candidate gene - apoE, are synergic.
TRH Test in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus Type 1 and/or Autoimmune Thyroiditis. Changes in the Pituitary –Thyroid Axis, Reverse T3, Prolactin and Growth Hormone Levels
Authors: Orlická E , Vondra K , Hill M , Skibová J , Šterzl I , Zamrazil V
Published: May 2021

The response of the pituitary- thyroid axis, reverse triiodothyronine (rT3), prolactin, and growth hormone (GH) levels following TRH stimulus (Relefact TRH 200 microg 2 amp. i.v.) was examined in patients with autoimmune diabetes type 1 (DM1, n=30), with autoimmune thyroiditis (AT, n=25), and with concurrent DM1 and AT (n=22) to evaluate the influence of DM1 and AT of autoimmune pathogenesis on the above-mentioned hormonal parameters. Statistical analysis (ANOVA) showed that: a) the response of TSH did not differ from control groups (C); b) free triiodothyronine (fT3), free thyroxine (fT4) and their ratio in DM1, DM1+AT and C rose in 120 and 180 min, while a similar increase was not seen in AT (p<0.000001); c) rT3 was not present in any group, with rT3 levels higher in AT (p<0.00002) and lower in DM1 (p<0.02); d) the response of GH had a paradoxical character in some patients in all groups, most often in DM1 (52 %, DM1 vs C, p <0.01). The characteristic response difference was not in the peak GH level, but the delayed return to basal levels in DM1 (p<0.0001) and an abrupt one in AT (p<0.0001). The major findings in DM1 were the differences in GH response, while significant impairment of pituitary-thyroid axis and PRL response to TRH was absent. AT was associated with impairment of TRH stimulated fT3, fT4, fT3/fT4 response and changes in rT3 levels, in spite of preserved TRH-stimulated TSH secretion. GH response in AT patients was also altered.
The Effect of Quality of Service on Patient Satisfaction and its Implications on The Interest of Patients to Use Health Services Back at Jember Regency Health Center
Authors: Sholeh Ahmad Afifuddin , Ma’rufi Isa , Puspitaningtyas Zarah
Published: May 2021

Health center is a health care facility that organizes public health efforts and first-rate individual health efforts, with more priority on promotional and preventive efforts to achieve the highest level of public health in the working area. Quality of service is something related to the fulfillment of customer expectations / needs, where the service is said to be quality when it can provide products and services (services) in accordance with the needs and expectations of customers. This research was an analytical research with a cross sectional approach. This research was conducted at Health Center in Jember Regency. The population in this study was 474,972 patients with a sample size of 400 patients, selected using accidental sampling techniques. Data were collected using documentation and interviews with questionnaires, then analyzed using AMOS software to examine how much influence the two independent variables on the dependent variables, could be seen from the coefficient of determination or estimate. The results showed that most of the respondents were adult, female, had marital status, had the last level of education finished junior high school, and had a type of job not working or other. Most respondents had an average income of about 2-3 million rupiah per month, have mileage to health facilities was less than 10 kilometers or categorized closely, have travel time to health facilities was less than 10 minutes or categorized briefly, and had participated in or participated in health insurance programs. The quality of service in the health center according to most respondents was considered quite good.

Keywords: quality of service; patient interest; health services
Profile of Age and Sex of Congenital Rubella Syndrome Patients with Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Multazam Chaq El Chaq Zamzam , Rahman Mahrus A. , Retnowati Wiwin
Published: May 2021

Background: Rubella is an acute viral disease that often attacks vulnerable children and young adults throughout the world. Even though it only causes mild clinical illness, concern in the health world arises from its teratogenic potential resulting in congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). The most common abnormalities of CRS are hearing loss or deafness, eye defects and congenital heart defects. Purpose: To determine the profiles of age and sex in congenital rubella syndrome patients with congenital heart disease in Dr Soetomo Regional Public Hospital for the period of 2016-2018. Methods: This type of research was a descriptive study by collecting data on the age and sex in congenital rubella syndrome patients with congenital heart disease in Dr Soetomo Regional Public Hospital retrospectively through medical records of patients for the period of 2016-2018. Results: The most age group of congenital rubella syndrome patients with congenital heart disease in Dr Soetomo Regional Public Hospital for the period of 2016-2018 was the toddler (0-
Community Attitudes and Decisions in Choosing a Health Center as a Health Service Facility in Lembang Laang Tanduk, Tampak Selatan, Rantepao District
Authors: Angriani Sri , Baharuddin Baharuddin
Published: May 2021

The existence of a community health center as the spearhead of health services in Indonesia is faced with various problems such as a decrease in budget allocations and a lack of health personnel. This study aims to analyze the relationship between attitudes and decisions about choosing a community health center as a health service facility, especially at the Laang Tanduk. The study design was cross-sectional with respondents from the health center customers who were selected by purposive sampling technique. Data were collected through filling out a questionnaire and tested the hypothesis using the Chi-square test. The results showed that the p-value was less than 0.05, so it was concluded that attitudes were related to the community's decision to choose a health center as a health service facility.

Keywords: public health center, decision to choose, attitude, community
m6A Modification in Mammalian Nervous System Development, Functions, Disorders, and Injuries
Authors: Yu Jun , She Yuanchu , Ji Sheng-Jian
Published: May 2021

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification, as the most prevalent internal modification on mRNA, has been implicated in many biological processes through regulating mRNA metabolism. Given that m6A modification is highly enriched in the mammalian brain, this dynamic modification provides a crucial new layer of epitranscriptomic regulation of the nervous system. Here, in this review, we summarize the recent progress on studies of m6A modification in the mammalian nervous system ranging from neuronal development to basic and advanced brain functions. We also highlight the detailed underlying mechanisms in each process mediated by m6A writers, erasers, and readers. Besides, the involvement of dysregulated m6A modification in neurological disorders and injuries is discussed as well.
Advanced TexSy-C Nanocomposites for High-Performance Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Lu Guolong , Ye Chunnuan , Li Wenyan , He Xuedong , Chen Guang , Li Jun , Jin Huile , Wang Shun , Wang Jichang
Published: May 2021

This study is dedicated to expand the family of lithium-tellurium sulfide batteries, which have been recognized as a promising choice for future energy storage systems. Herein, a novel electrochemical method has been applied to engineer micro-nano TexSy material, and it is found that TexSy phases combined with multi-walled carbon nanotubes endow the as-constructed lithium-ion batteries excellent cycling stability and high rate performance. In the process of material synthesis, the sulfur was successfully embedded into the tellurium matrix, which improved the overall capacity performance. TexSy was characterized and verified as a micro-nano-structured material with less Te and more S. Compared with the original pure Te particles, the capacity is greatly improved, and the volume expansion change is effectively inhibited. After the assembly of Li-TexSy battery, the stable electrical contact and rapid transport capacity of lithium ions, as well as significant electrochemical performance are verified.
What Drives Belief in Vaccination Conspiracy Theories in Germany?
Authors: Jensen Eric Allen , Pfleger Axel , Herbig Lisa , Wagoner Brady , Lorenz Lars , Watzlawik Meike
Published: May 2021

In the midst of a pandemic, the efficacy of official measures to mitigate the COVID-19 crisis largely depends on public attitudes towards them, where conspiracy beliefs represent potential threats to the efficacy of measures such as vaccination. Here, we present predictors and outcomes associated with a COVID-19 vaccination conspiracy belief. In a representative survey of Germany, sociodemographic predictors of this belief were found to include age, federal state, migration background and school leaving qualification. The study revealed correlations with trust in scientific and governmental information sources, respondents’ self-assessment of being informed about science, general conspiracy mindedness, the frequency of using Twitter and messaging apps, as well as willingness to voluntarily take the COVID-19 vaccine. Our results cohere with and build on the general literature on conspiracy mindedness and related factors. The findings provide an evidence base for more effective health and crisis communication in Germany and beyond.
Understanding the Pathogenesis of Gestational Hypothyroidism
Authors: Mallawa Kankanamalage Oshini , Zhou Qiongjie , Li Xiaotian
Published: May 2021

Pregnancy is a complex state with many endocrinological challenges to a woman’s physiology. Gestational Hypothyroidism (GHT) is an emerging condition where insufficiency of the thyroid gland has developed during pregnancy in a previously euthyroid woman. It is different to overt hypothyroidism, where marked elevation of thyroid-stimulating hormone with corresponding reduction in free thyroxine levels, is well known to cause detrimental effects to both the mother and the baby. During the past couple of decades, it has been shown that GHT is associated with multiple adverse maternal and fetal outcomes such as miscarriage, pre-eclampsia, placental abruption, fetal loss, premature delivery, neurocognitive and neurobehavioral development. However, three randomized controlled trials and a prospective cohort study performed within the last decade, show that there is no neurodevelopmental improvement in the offspring of mothers who received levothyroxine treatment for GHT. Thus, the benefit of initiating treatment for GHT is highly debated within the clinical community as there may also be risks associated with over-treatment. In addition, regulatory mechanisms that could possibly lead to GHT during pregnancy are not well elucidated. This review aims to unravel pregnancy induced physiological challenges that could provide basis for the development of GHT. During pregnancy, there is increased renal clearance of iodine leading to low iodine state. Also, an elevated estrogen level leading to an increase in circulating thyroglobulin level and a decrease in free thyroxine level. Moreover, placenta secretes compounds such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), placental growth factor (PIGF) and soluble FMS-like tyrosine kinase-1 (s-Flt1) that could affect the thyroid function. In turn, the passage of thyroid hormones and iodine to the fetus is highly regulated within the placental barrier. Together, these mechanisms are hypothesized to contribute to the development of intolerance of thyroid function leading to GHT in a vulnerable individual.
Characteristics and Driving Factors of Spatial Association Network of China’s Renewable Energy Technology Innovation
Authors: Feng Chen , Wang Yuansheng , Kang Rong , Zhou Lei , Bai Caiquan , Yan Zheming
Published: May 2021

Based on the provincial panel data of China from 2001 to 2016, this study uses the social network analysis approach to empirically investigate the characteristics and driving factors of the spatial association network of China’s interprovincial renewable energy technology innovation. The findings are as following. 1) The spatial association of China’s interprovincial renewable energy technology innovation exhibits a typical network structure. Moreover, its network density, network hierarchy and network efficiency are 0.3696, 0.6667 and 0.7833 in 2001 and 0.4084, 0.4764 and 0.7044 in 2016, respectively, implying the spatial association network became more and more complex and the interprovincial association strengthened during the sample period. 2) This spatial association network presents a “core-edge” distribution pattern. The positions and roles of various provinces vary greatly in the spatial association network. Specifically, the developed coastal regions such as Shanghai, Beijing and Tianjin have a degree centrality, closeness centrality and betweenness centrality of above 75, 80 and 10, respectively, indicating that they always play a central role in the network. However, the northeastern regions and the relatively backward central and western regions such as Heilongjiang, Jilin, Xinjiang, Hainan and Hebei only have a degree centrality, closeness centrality and betweenness centrality of below 20, 55 and 0.1, respectively, indicating that they are at a relatively marginal position. 3) The geographical proximity and the expansion of the differences in economic development level and R&D inputs are conducive to the enhancement of the spatial association of China’s renewable energy technology innovation.
Framing Illegal Logging and Its Governance Responses in Brazil – A Structured Review of Diagnosis and Prognosis
Authors: Kleinschmit Daniela , Ferraz Ziegert Rafaella , Walther Laura
Published: May 2021

In 2012, the new, revised Forest Code was established as the legal and regulatory framework for Brazilian forests. Though illegal logging has continued, frames about Brazil's forest policy and management have changed since that time. While until 2010 the successful implementation of forest policies and the resulting decline in deforestation rates were there for all to see and appreciate, the increase in the deforestation rate since then has become the focus of international criticism. With the help of a structured review of international scientific literature, newspaper articles, and programmes initiated by non-governmental organizations' (NGO) and international organizations' (IO), this paper aims to analyse the frames of illegal logging and its governance responses in Brazil since 2012. The review is guided by the framework of diagnostic (What is the problem? Who is to blame?) and prognostic framing (proposed policy and governance solutions). The main findings revealed a master frame of environmental justice that combines injustice toward indigenous people with the victimization of forest and environment at large. Embedded in this master frame, specific frames that follow the institutional logic of the single policy discourses have been identified. Finally, the results show a strong national focus of governance with continued emphasis on command and control instruments.
Identification of a Conserved Transcriptional Activator-Repressor Module Controlling the Expression of Genes Involved in Tannic Acid Degradation and Gallic Acid Utilization in Aspergillus niger
Authors: Arentshorst Mark , Falco Marcos Di , Moisan Marie-Claude , Reid Ian D. , Spaapen Tessa O. M. , van Dam Jisca , Demirci Ebru , Powlowski Justin , Punt Peter J. , Tsang Adrian , Ram Arthur F. J.
Published: May 2021

Tannic acid, a hydrolysable gallotannin present in plant tissues, consists of a central glucose molecule esterified with gallic acid molecules. Some microorganisms, including severalAspergillusspecies, can metabolize tannic acid by releasing gallic acid residues from tannic acid by secreting tannic acid specific esterases into the medium. The expression of these so-called tannases is induced by tannic acid or gallic acid. In this study, we identified a conserved transcriptional activator-repressor module involved in the regulation of predicted tannases and other genes involved in gallic acid metabolism. The transcriptional activator-repressor module regulating tannic acid utilization resembles the transcriptional activator-repressor modules regulating galacturonic acid and quinic acid utilization. Like these modules, the Zn(II)2Cys6transcriptional activator (TanR) and the putative repressor (TanX) are located adjacent to each other. Deletion of the transcriptional activator(ΔtanR) results in inability to grow on gallic acid and severely reduces growth on tannic acid. Deletion of the putative repressor gene(ΔtanX) results in the constitutive expression of tannases as well as other genes with mostly unknown function. Known microbial catabolic pathways for gallic acid utilization involve so-called ring cleavage enzymes, and two of these ring cleavage enzymes show increased expression in the ΔtanXmutant. However, deletion of these two genes, and even deletion of all 17 genes encoding potential ring cleavage enzymes, did not result in a gallic acid non-utilizing phenotype. Therefore, inA. nigergallic acid utilization involves a hitherto unknown pathway. Transcriptome analysis of the ΔtanXmutant identified several genes and gene clusters that were significantly induced compared to the parental strain. The involvement of a selection of these genes and gene clusters in gallic acid utilization was examined by constructing gene deletion mutants and testing their ability to grow on gallic acid. Only the deletion of a gene encoding an FAD-dependent monooxygenase (NRRL3_04659) resulted in a strain that was unable to grow on gallic acid. Metabolomic studies showed accumulation of gallic acid in the ΔNRRL3_04659mutant suggesting that this predicted monooxygenase is involved in the first step of gallic acid metabolism and is likely responsible for oxidation of the aromatic ring.