bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnosis of thyroid nodules for ultrasonographic characteristics indicative of malignancy using random forest
Authors: Chen Dan , Hu Jun , Zhu Mei , Tang Niansheng , Yang Yang , Feng Yuran
Published: September 2020

Background

Various combinations of ultrasonographic (US) characteristics are increasingly utilized to classify thyroid nodules. But they lack theories, and heavily depend on radiologists’ experience, and cannot correctly classify thyroid nodules. Hence, our main purpose of this manuscript is to select the US characteristics significantly associated with malignancy and to develop an efficient scoring system for facilitating ultrasonic clinicians to correctly identify thyroid malignancy.

Methods

A logistic regression (LR) model is utilized to identify the potential thyroid malignancy, and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) method is adopted to simultaneously select US characteristics significantly associated with malignancy and estimate parameters in LR model. Based on the selected US characteristics, we calculate the probability for each of thyroid nodules via random forest (RF) and extreme learning machine (ELM), and develop a scoring system to classify thyroid nodules. For comparison, we also consider eight state-of-the-art methods such as support vector machine (SVM), neural network (NET), etc. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) is employed to measure the accuracy of various classifiers.

Results

The US characteristics: nodule size, AP/T≥1, solid component, micro-calcifications, hackly border, hypoechogenicity, presence of halo, unclear border, irregular margin, and central vascularity are selected as the significant predictors associated with thyroid malignancy via the LASSO LR (LLR). Using the developed scoring system, thyroid nodules are classified into the following four categories: benign, low suspicion, intermediate suspicion, and high suspicion, whose rates of malignancy correctly identified for RF (ELM) method on the testing dataset are 0.0% (4.3%), 14.3% (50.0%), 58.1% (59.1%) and 96.1% (97.7%), respectively.

Conclusion

LLR together with RF performs better than other methods in identifying malignancy, especially for abnormal nodules, in terms of risk scores. The developed scoring system can well predict the risk of malignancy and guide medical doctors to make management decisions for reducing the number of unnecessary biopsies for benign nodules.
Conserved and distinct morphological aspects of the salivary glands of sand fly vectors of leishmaniasis: an anatomical and ultrastructural study
Authors: Nacif-Pimenta Rafael , Pinto Luciana C. , Volfova Vera , Volf Petr , Pimenta Paulo F. P. , Secundino Nagila F. C.
Published: September 2020

Background

Sand flies are vectors ofLeishmaniaspp., the causative agents of leishmaniasis in vertebrates, including man. The sand fly saliva contains powerful pharmacologically active substances that prevent hemostasis and enhanceLeishmaniaspp. infections. On the other hand, salivary proteins can protect vaccinated mice challenged with parasites. Therefore, sand fly salivary proteins are relevant for the epidemiology of leishmaniasis and can be a potential target for a vaccine against leishmaniasis. Despite this, studies on sand fly salivary glands (SGs) are limited.

Methods

The present study analyzes, in detail, the morphology, anatomy and ultrastructure of the SGs of sand fly vectors of the generaLutzomyiaandPhlebotomus. We used histology, transmission and scanning electron microscopy and lectin labeling associated with confocal laser microscopy.

Results

The SGs have conserved and distinct morphological aspects according to the distinct sand fly species. Each SG has a single rounded lobe constituting ofc.100–120 secretory cells. The SG secretory cells, according to their ultrastructure and lectin binding, were classified into five different subpopulations, which may differ in secretory pathways.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, these morphological details of sand fly salivary glands are described for the first time. Further studies are necessary to better understand the role of these different cell types and better relate them with the production and secretion of the saliva substances, which has a fundamental role in the interaction of the sand fly vectors withLeishmania.
The draft genome of Labeo catla
Authors: Sahoo Lakshman , Das Paramananda , Sahoo Bismay , Das Gargee , Meher Prem Kumar , Udit Uday Kumar , Mahapatra Kanta Das , Sundaray Jitendra Kumar
Published: September 2020

Objective

Labeo catla (catla), one of the three Indian major carps, is native to the Indo-Gangetic riverine system of India as well as the rivers of Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and Myanmar. Its higher growth rate and compatibility with other major carps, specific surface feeding habit, and consumer preference have increased its popularity in carp polyculture systems among the fish farmers in Indian subcontinent. Recent advancement in sequencing technology coupled with massive parallel sequencing platforms has facilitated accelerated genetic improvement in aquaculture species through integration of genomics tools. A draft genome and allied resources are lacking in catla. Therefore, in the present study, we have performed de-novo assembly of Labeo catla for the first time.

Data description

A male farm reared catla was used for extracting high molecular weight genomic DNA followed by sequencing in Oxford Nanopore and Illumina platforms. Approximately, 80× coverage of sequence data was assembled adopting the hybrid assembly strategy. The assembled genome size of catla was 1.01 Gb containing 5345 scaffolds with N50 value 0.7 Mb and more than 92% BUSCO completeness. Gene annotation resulted in 25,812 predicted genes.
Evaluation of immunophenotypic markers and clinico-hematological profile in chronic lymphocytic leukemia: implications for prognosis
Authors: Bagheri Marziye , Vosoughi Tina , Hosseinzadeh Mehran , Saki Najmaldin
Published: September 2020

Objective

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is an adult leukemia presented with clonal accumulation of lymphocytes. Immunophenotypic changes can be effective in predicting clinical course, the survival of patients, and determining first-line treatment. This is a study of the association between immunophenotypic markers with complete blood cell count (CBC) values and clinical parameters.

Results

Peripheral blood samples were collected from 35 newly diagnosed CLL patients. The expression of immunophenotypic markers and CBC were evaluated. Platelet counts and hemoglobin concentration had a significant, inverse association with Rai staging, modified Rai staging, Binet staging systems (all p < 0.001 in both parameters), and splenomegaly (p = 0.001 and 0.007, respectively). The platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR) had a significant, inverse association with Rai staging (p = 0.014), modified Rai staging (p = 0.024), Binet staging systems (p = 0.027), and splenomegaly (p = 0.033). However, CD38, CD25, and double-positive CD56/CD117 expression, group 3 of innate lymphocyte cells (ILC3s), had no significant association with clinical parameters. In regression analysis, that ILC3s has an inverse correlation with neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (r = −0.340, p = 0.046). Given that there is an inverse association between PLR and advanced clinical stages, it seems that PLR may have prognostic value in CLL.
Draft genome sequence of Clostridium jeddahense EE-R19 isolated from an anaerobic digester
Authors: Ziganshina Elvira E. , Mohammed Waleed S. , Ziganshin Ayrat M.
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Clostridium species of the order Clostridiales are mostly strictly anaerobic rod-shaped bacteria. They can be detected in a variety of environments, including the intestines of humans and animals, soil, water, and biogas reactors. Species of the genus Clostridium are widely used in various biotechnological processes, but several of them have been identified as significant human pathogens. Therefore, investigation at the genome level is necessary to provide valuable information about the ecology, genetics, and phylogenetic diversity of various Clostridium species.

Data description

In the present study, we report the whole genome sequence of Clostridium jeddahense strain EE-R19, which was isolated from a mesophilic anaerobic digester. The draft genome of C. jeddahense EE-R19 consisted of 59 contigs (> 500 bp), which amounted to 3,562,974 with an overall G + C content of 51.79%. The whole genome shotgun project of C. jeddahense EE-R19 has been deposited at DDBJ/ENA/GenBank under the accession number JAAVNF000000000.
Association between NPPA promoter methylation and hypertension: results from Gusu cohort and replication in an independent sample
Authors: Li Jing , Zhu Jinhua , Ren Liyun , Ma Shengqi , Shen Bin , Yu Jia , Zhang Rongyan , Zhang Mingzhi , He Yan , Peng Hao
Published: September 2020

Background

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), one of the main members of the natriuretic peptides system, has been associated with hypertension and related complications, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are not very clear. Here, we aimed to examine whether DNA methylation, a molecular modification to the genome, of the natriuretic peptide A gene (NPPA), the coding gene of ANP, was associated with hypertension.

Methods

Peripheral blood DNA methylation of NPPA promoter was quantified by target bisulfite sequencing in 2498 community members (mean aged 53 years, 38% men) as a discovery sample and 1771 independent participants (mean aged 62 years, 54% men) as a replication sample. In both samples, we conducted a single CpG association analysis, followed by a gene-based association analysis, to examine the association between NPPA promoter methylation and hypertension, adjusting for age, sex, education level, cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, fasting glucose, and lipids. Multiple testing was controlled by the false discovery rate approach.

Results

Of the 9 CpG loci assayed, hypermethylation at 5 CpGs (CpG1, CpG3, CpG6, CpG8, and CpG9) was significantly associated with a lower odds of prevalent hypertension in the discovery sample, and one CpG methylation (CpG1 located at Chr1:11908353) was successfully replicated in the replication sample (OR = 0.82, 95%CI 0.74–0.91, q = 0.002) after adjusting for covariates and multiple testing. The gene-based analysis found that DNA methylation of the 9 CpGs at NPPA promoter as a whole was significantly associated with blood pressure and prevalent hypertension in both samples (all P < 0.05).

Conclusions

DNA methylation levels at NPPA promoter were decreased in Chinese adults with hypertension. Aberrant DNA methylation of the NPPA gene may participate in the mechanisms of hypertension.
Inflammatory cutaneous lesions and pulmonary manifestations in a new patient with autosomal recessive ISG15 deficiency case report
Authors: Buda Guadalupe , Valdez Rita María , Biagioli German , Olivieri Federico A. , Affranchino Nicolás , Bouso Carolina , Lotersztein Vanesa , Bogunovic Dusan , Bustamante Jacinta , Martí Marcelo A.
Published: September 2020

Interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15) was the first ubiquitin-like modifier protein identified that acts by protein conjugation (ISGylation) and is thought to modulate IFN-induced inflammation. Here, we report a new patient from a non-consanguineous Argentinian family, who was followed for recurrent ulcerative skin lesions, cerebral calcifications and lung disease. Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) revealed two novel compound heterozygous variants (c.285del and c.299_312del, NM_005101.4 GRCh37(hg19), both classified as pathogenic according to ACMG criteria) in the ISG15 gene, resulting in a complete deficiency due to disruption of the second ubiquitin domain of the corresponding protein. The clinical phenotype of this patient is unique given the presence of recurrent pulmonary manifestations and the absence of mycobacterial infections, thus resulting in a phenotype distinct from that previously described in patients with biallelic loss-of-function (LOF) ISG15 variants. This case highlights the role of ISG15 as an immunomodulating factor whose LOF variants result in heterogeneous clinical presentations.
“Immune Boosting” in the time of COVID: selling immunity on Instagram
Authors: Wagner Darren N. , Marcon Alessandro R. , Caulfield Timothy
Published: September 2020

“Immune boosting” is a trending topic during the COVID-19 pandemic. The concept of “immune boosting” is scientifically misleading and often used to market unproven products and therapies. This paper presents an analysis of popular immune-boosting posts from Instagram. Of the sampled posts, all promoted “immune boosting” as beneficial, nearly all involved commercial interests, and many used scientific and medical rhetoric in their messaging.
A non-viral genome editing platform for site-specific insertion of large transgenes
Authors: Chaudhari Namrata , Rickard Amanda M. , Roy Suki , Dröge Peter , Makhija Harshyaa
Published: September 2020

Background

The precise, functional and safe insertion of large DNA payloads into host genomes offers versatility in downstream genetic engineering-associated applications, spanning cell and gene therapies, therapeutic protein production, high-throughput cell-based drug screening and reporter cell lines amongst others. Employing viral- and non-viral-based genome engineering tools to achieve specific insertion of large DNA—despite being successful in E. coli and animal models—still pose challenges in the human system. In this study, we demonstrate the applicability of our lambda integrase-based genome insertion tool for human cell and gene therapy applications that require insertions of large functional genes, as exemplified by the integration of a functional copy of the F8 gene and a Double Homeobox Protein 4 (DUX4)-based reporter cassette for potential hemophilia A gene therapy and facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD)-based high-throughput drug screening purposes, respectively. Thus, we present a non-viral genome insertion tool for safe and functional delivery of large seamless DNA cargo into the human genome that can enable novel designer cell-based therapies.

Methods

Previously, we have demonstrated the utility of our phage λ-integrase platform to generate seamless vectors and subsequently achieve functional integration of large-sized DNA payloads at defined loci in the human genome. To further explore this tool for therapeutic applications, we used pluripotent human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) to integrate large seamless vectors comprising a ‘gene of interest’. Clonal cell populations were screened for the correct integration events and further characterized by southern blotting, gene expression and protein activity assays. In the case of our hemophilia A-related study, clones were differentiated to confirm that the targeted locus is active after differentiation and actively express and secrete Factor VIII.

Results

The two independent approaches demonstrated specific and functional insertions of a full-length blood clotting F8 expression cassette of ~ 10 kb and of a DUX4 reporter cassette of ~ 7 kb in hESCs.

Conclusion

We present a versatile tool for site-specific human genome engineering with large transgenes for cell/gene therapies and other synthetic biology and biomedical applications.
Overexpressing TGF-β1 in mesenchymal stem cells attenuates organ dysfunction during CLP-induced septic mice by reducing macrophage-driven inflammation
Authors: Liu Feng , Xie Jianfeng , Zhang Xiwen , Wu Zongsheng , Zhang Shi , Xue Ming , Chen Jianxiao , Yang Yi , Qiu Haibo
Published: September 2020

Background

Sepsis remains a leading cause of death in critically ill patients. It is well known that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a promising therapy partly due to their paracrine-mediated immunoregulatory function. Previous study demonstrated that transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-β1) is an important cytokine secreted by MSCs and that it participates in MSC-mediated macrophage phenotype switch from pro-inflammatory to pro-resolution. In addition, the transformation of macrophage phenotype may be a potential treatment for sepsis. However, the therapeutic effect of overexpressing TGF-β1 in MSCs (MSC-TGF-β1) on sepsis is not well understood. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of TGF-β1 overexpressing MSCs on organ injury in cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced septic mice and to detect the changes in macrophage phenotype during this process.

Methods

Mouse MSCs stably transfected with TGF-β1 were constructed and injected into CLP-induced septic mice via tail vein. After 24 h, the mice were sacrificed; then, the histopathology of the organ was evaluated by hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining. Inflammatory cytokines were detected by ELISA. Macrophage infiltration and phenotype transformation in the tissues were determined by immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry. In addition, we performed adoptive transfer of mouse peritoneal macrophage pretreated with TGF-β1 overexpressing MSCs in septic mice.

Results

We found that infusion of TGF-β1 overexpressing MSCs attenuated the histopathological impairment of the organ, decreased the pro-inflammatory cytokine levels and inhibited macrophage infiltration in tissues. TGF-β1 overexpressing MSCs induced macrophage phenotypes changed from pro-inflammatory to pro-resolution in inflammatory environment. The adoptive transfer of mouse peritoneal macrophages pretreated with TGF-β1 overexpressing MSCs also relieved organ damage in CLP-induced septic mice.

Conclusion

Under septic conditions, TGF-β1 overexpressing MSCs can enhance the therapeutic effects of MSCs on organ injury and inflammation as a result of reduced macrophage infiltration and induced macrophages transformation, the adoptive transfer of macrophages treated with TGF-β1 overexpressing MSCs also relieved organ damage. This will provide new hope for the treatment of sepsis.
Regional probabilistic tsunami hazard assessment associated with active faults along the eastern margin of the Sea of Japan
Authors: Mulia Iyan E. , Ishibe Takeo , Satake Kenji , Gusman Aditya Riadi , Murotani Satoko
Published: September 2020

We analyze the regional tsunami hazard along the Sea of Japan coast associated with 60 active faults beneath the eastern margin of the Sea of Japan. We generate stochastic slip distribution using a Monte Carlo approach at each fault, and the total number of required earthquake samples is determined based on convergence analysis of maximum coastal tsunami heights. The earthquake recurrence interval on each fault is estimated from observed seismicity. The variance parameter representing aleatory uncertainty for probabilistic tsunami hazard analysis is determined from comparison with the four historical tsunamis, and a logic-tree is used for the choice of the values. Using nearshore tsunami heights at the 50 m isobath and an amplification factor by the Green’s law, hazard curves are constructed at 154 locations for coastal municipalities along the Sea of Japan coast. The highest maximum coastal tsunamis are expected to be approximately 3.7, 7.7, and 11.5 m for the return periods of 100-, 400-, and 1000-year, respectively. The results indicate that the hazard level generally increases from southwest to northeast, which is consistent with the number and type of the identified fault systems. Furthermore, the deaggregation of hazard suggests that tsunamis in the northeast are predominated by local sources, while the southwest parts are likely affected by several regional sources.
Microarray data analysis reveals gene expression changes in response to ionizing radiation in MCF7 human breast cancer cells
Authors: Bai Jing , Luo Youzhen , Zhang Shengchu
Published: September 2020

Background

The aim of this study was to identify potential therapeutic target genes for breast cancer (BC) by the investigation of gene expression changes after ionizing radiation (IR) in BC cells. Gene expression profile GSE21748, including BC cell line MCF-7 samples at different time points after IR treatment, were downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in different time points following IR compared with cell samples before IR, respectively. Gene ontology functions and The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways of the overlapping DEGs were enriched using DAVID. Transcription factor (TFs)-encoding genes were identified from the overlapping DEGs, followed by construction of transcriptional regulatory network and co-expression network.

Results

A total of 864 overlapping DEGs were identified, which were significantly enriched in regulation of cell proliferation and apoptosis, and cell cycle process. We found that FOXD1, STAT6, XBP1, STAT2, LMO2, TFAP4, STAT3, STAT1 were hub nodes in the transcriptional regulatory network of the overlapping DEGs. The co-expression network of target genes regulated by STAT3, STAT1, STAT6 and STAT2 included some key genes such as BCL2L1.

Conclusion

STAT1, STAT2, STAT3, STAT6, XBP1, BCL2L1, CYB5D2, ESCO2, and PARP2 were significantly affected by IR and they may be used as therapeutic gene targets in the treatment of BC.
Understanding stakeholders’ perspectives on implementing deprescribing for older people living in long-term residential care homes: the STOPPING study protocol
Authors: Warmoth Krystal , Day Jo , Cockcroft Emma , Reed Donald Nigel , Pollock Lucy , Coxon George , Heneker Julia , Walton Bridget , Stein Ken
Published: September 2020

Background

Older people with multimorbidity often experience polypharmacy. Taking multiple medicines can be beneficial; however, some older adults are prescribed multiple medicines when they are unlikely to improve clinical outcomes and may lead to harm. Deprescribing means reducing or stopping prescription medicines which may no longer be providing benefit. While appropriate deprescribing may usually be safely undertaken, there is a lack of guidance about how to implement it in practice settings such as care homes. Implementing deprescribing in care homes is often challenging, due to differing concerns of residents, staff, clinicians, friends/family members and carers along with differences in care home structures. The STOPPING study will support the development of better deprescribing practice in care homes, considering different views and environments. This paper aims to introduce the research protocol.

Methods

We will use qualitative approaches informed by the widely accepted Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to aid analysis. To understand the barriers, facilitators, and contextual factors influencing deprescribing in care homes, we will employ individual interviews with care home residents and family members, focus groups with care home staff and healthcare professionals, and observations from care homes. Then, we will examine acceptability, feasibility, and suitability of existing deprescribing approaches using cognitive interviews with care home staff and healthcare professionals. Lastly, we will use narrative synthesis to integrate findings and develop guidance for implementing a deprescribing approach for care homes.

Discussion

This research will support the development of implementable approaches to deprescribing in care homes. The insights from this project will be shared with various stakeholders: care home residents, staff, pharmacists, general practitioners, nurses, and other health professionals, carers, researchers, and the public. This work will support deprescribing to be implemented effectively in care homes to benefit residents and the wider health economy.
The Collision of Meta-Inflammation and SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic Infection
Authors: Huizinga Gabrielle P , Singer Benjamin H , Singer Kanakadurga
Published: September 2020

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has forced us to consider the physiologic role of obesity in the response to infectious disease. There are significant disparities in morbidity and mortality by sex, weight, and diabetes status. Numerous endocrine changes might drive these varied responses to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, including hormone and immune mediators, hyperglycemia, leukocyte responses, cytokine secretion, and tissue dysfunction. Studies of patients with severe COVID-19 disease have revealed the importance of innate immune responses in driving immunopathology and tissue injury. In this review we will describe the impact of the metabolically induced inflammation (meta-inflammation) that characterizes obesity on innate immunity. We consider that obesity-driven dysregulation of innate immune responses may drive organ injury in the development of severe COVID-19 and impair viral clearance.
Building a National Machine
Authors: Yon Guillaume
Published: September 2020

The article studies the development of the long-term marginal cost pricing of electricity in France, in the 1950s and 1960s. The engineers who managed the public monopoly for the production, transport, and distribution of electricity promoted a distinctive version of the economics and engineering nexus. Costs calculations were developed to design a nationwide integrated machine. Hydropower in the south was to be interconnected with thermal power in the north, in order to support a massive increase in consumption in the Paris basin, saving on coal and on the scarce funding of the Marshall Plan. Prices acted as administrative instructions, passing on costs to subscribers and shaping their present and future behavior according to the planned development of the system. This was a technocratic intervention: the engineer-economists made crucial and lasting decisions on land-use planning for the sake of the rapid growth of the system. This engineering and economics nexus was a far cry from the prewar liberal order made of multiple small and loosely regulated competitors, and from contemporary forms of economic engineering, more narrowly focused on the informational properties of prices, abandoning the calculated nationwide decisions on the growth of processes of production and uses. It is also slightly neglected in the discussion over the so-called indicative planning in postwar France.
Physicochemical Characterization of Pectin Extracted from Six Wild Edible Fruits in Odisha, India
Authors: Patra Pragyan Aparichita , Basak Uday Chand
Published: September 2020

The life of plant species flourishing in Odisha is luxuriant which is created based on its tropical climate type and assembles a remarkable extensive diversity in edible fruits. These wild edible fruits are predominantly utilized in tribal and rural livelihoods inhabiting in nearby forest regions. Despite their rich source of macronutrients, micronutrients, vitamins and antioxidants, they are often underutilized. Pectins are considered as food additives due to its natural dietary fibre consisting high proportion of galacturonic acid. The main aim of this study was to explore the pectin potential in these six wild edible fruits which might provide alternative commercialised products, value addition and favouring food security.Analysis of pectin yield and degree of esterification are considered as two important factors for marketable pectins. Equivalent weight is directly proportional to the formation of the gelling effect.In this study, highest pectin yield was recorded in Citrus medica (25.34 ± 0.77 % dry wt.) followed by Phyllanthus emblica(14.86 ± 0.40 % dry wt.) and Carissa carandas (11.94 ± 0.60 % dry wt.). To evaluate pectin suitability in food systems, characterization of extracted pectin was carried out following several parameters. The physico-chemical properties from dried pectin revealed highest degree of esterification (87.63 ± 1.33 %),equivalent weight (1516.66 ± 187.63), anhydrouronic acid (94.23± 2.67 %) and methoxyl content (14.62 ± 0.27 %) in Phyllanthus emblica whereas more moisture content of pectin was available in Citrus medica (10.35 ± 0.35 %). Our findings revealed that the methoxyl value and degree of esterification (DE) are classified as high methoxyl pectins (HMP), suitable for industrial and therapeutical applications.
Discrimination of the Indonesian Roasted Arabica Coffees using 1H NMR-based Metabolomics
Authors: Happyana Nizar , Hermawati Elvira , Syah Yana Maolana , Hakim Euis Holisotan Hakim
Published: September 2020

In this report, the roasted Arabica coffees obtained from 4 Indonesian regions were analyzed with 1H NMR based-metabolomics. In total, 23 compounds were detected in the coffee 1H NMR spectra. Orthogonal projection to latent structure-discriminant analysis (OPLSDA) model successfully classified metabolites of the coffees based on their origins. S-plots of two-classes partial least square discriminant analysis (PLSDA) models successfully identified discriminant metabolites for every coffee. Chlorogenic acids, trigonelline, arabinoses were found as the discriminant compounds for Preanger-Java coffee. Lipids, acetic acid and lactic acid were discovered as the characteristic metabolites for Gayo-Sumatra coffee. γ-quinide was found as the most important marker for Bajawa-Flores coffee. Meanwhile, Toraja-Sulawesi coffee were characterized with a balance chemical composition indicating its well-balanced taste. The findings revealed the diversity of Indonesian Arabica coffees and shed more light on scientific information of Indonesian coffees.
Optimization of Sand Puffing Characteristics of Quinoa using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Subramani Deepak , Tamilselvan Sharmila , Murugesan Maheswari , M S Shivaswamy
Published: September 2020

The superfood quinoa is an extremely nutritious and ancient pseudocereal grain particularly known for its protein quality and bioactive compounds, compared to other cereals. Quinoa seeds can be processed into a crispy, cellular-structured and expanded whole-grain snack product by low capital cost involving traditional sand puffing method. The study aims to statistically optimize the processing conditions for sand puffing of quinoa. The moisture-treated and salt-treated quinoa grains were mixed with a high-temperature sand bed for a predetermined time to induce grain expansion. Puffing conditions were optimized using Box-Behnken design by varying the factors such as moisture added (0.2-1.8 ml/10 g grains), salt concentration (0-1%), puffing temperature (200-240 ºC) and puffing time (20-60 s). It was found that measured response parameters like puffing yield, expansion ratio, flake size and overall acceptability of puffed quinoa significantly (p<0.05) increased with a decrease in moisture added and salt concentration, and increase in puffing temperature and puffing time. Bulk density of puffed quinoa had a negative correlation with puffing temperature and puffing time. The optimum condition of 0.2 ml moisture added/10 g grains, 0.2% salt concentration, 229ºC puffing temperature and 55 s puffing time was predicted to generate puffing yield of 86.23%, expansion ratio of 3.08, flake size of 8.21 mm3, bulk density of 0.36 g/ml and overall acceptability score of 8.65. The higher yield, three-fold expansion and superior sensory attributes of puffed quinoa achieved from optimized sand puffing condition would benefit the manufactures and be nutritious snack food for consumers to combat malnutrition.
Electromagnetically tunable cholesterics with oblique helicoidal structure [Invited]
Authors: Lavrentovich Oleg D.
Published: September 2020

Cholesteric liquid crystals form a right-angle helicoidal structure with the pitch in the submicrometer and micrometer range. Because of the periodic modulation of the refractive index, the structure is capable of Bragg and Raman-Nath diffraction and mirrorless lasing. An attractive feature of cholesterics for optical applications is that the pitch and thus the wavelength of diffraction respond to temperature or chemical composition changes. However, the most desired mode of pitch control, by electromagnetic fields, has so far been elusive. Synthesis of bent-shape flexible dimer molecules resulted in an experimental realization of a new cholesteric state with an oblique helicoidal structure, abbreviated as ChOH. The ChOH state forms when the material is acted upon by the electric or magnetic field and aligns its axis parallel to the field. The principal advantage of ChOH is that the field changes the pitch but preserves the single-harmonic heliconical structure. As a result, the material shows an extraordinarily broad range of electrically or magnetically tunable robust selective reflection of light, from ultraviolet to visible and infrared, and efficient tunable lasing. The ChOH structure also responds to molecular reorientation at bounding plates and optical torques. This brief review discusses the recently established features of ChOH electro-optics and problems to solve.
Compact picosecond mid-IR PPLN OPO with controllable peak powers
Authors: Wu Yudi , Liang Sijing , Fu Qiang , Xu Lin , Richardson David J.
Published: September 2020

We report a high-repetition-rate, compact, mid-infrared picosecond (ps) optical parametric oscillator (OPO) based on periodically poled lithium niobate (PPLN). The OPO is synchronously pumped by an ytterbium-doped-fibre (YDF) master-oscillator-power-amplifier (MOPA) system, seeded by a 1040-nm gain-switched laser diode (GSLD). Under continuous-wave (cw) pulsed operation, at a 1.5-GHz repetition rate and 14-W pump power, an idler average power of 2.4 W (∼30 W peak power) was achieved, with an idler wavelength tunability of 2260–3573 nm. Through the addition of an electro-optic modulator (EOM) to the MOPA system, acting as a time gate to suppress a variable number of pulses per 1 µs, a quasi-cw pumping regime was realized, allowing burst-mode operation of the OPO at a 1-MHz inter-burst repetition rate. By varying the burst window time with the EOM, controllable idler peak powers of up to 1.2 kW were then realized.
Pembelajaran Sentra BAC (Bahan Alam Cair) untuk Mengembangkan Kreativitas Anak; Studi Kasus RA Ar-Rasyid
Authors: Ubaidillah Khasan
Published: September 2020

Central learning is a learning model that provides an opportunity for children to play with various rides in accordance with activities that have been designed by the teacher. Center learning aims to stimulate aspects of child development in accordance with their growth. One of the centers that are the focus of this article is the center of BAC (Liquid Natural Materials), which is learning that uses liquid natural materials as teaching materials. Learning is designed to involve children directly in making work with facilities provided by the teacher. The results of the study explained that the BAC center discussion at RA Ar-Rasyid Kartasura was carried out with four stages of footing namely the playing environment, footing before playing, footing while playing, and footing after playing. RA Ar-Rasyid Kartasura applies the BAC (Liquid Natural Materials) center to develop children's creativity.
Techniques for Fostering Self-Regulated Learning Via Learning Management Systems in On-Campus and Online Courses
Authors: Shine Beau , Heath Sarah E.
Published: September 2020

While self-regulated learning is a standard model for online coursework, this approach emphasizes the applicability of Learning Management System (LMS) usage in face-to-face and hybrid course formats. Self-regulated learning has become an important component of education, both as a primary tool in online coursework and as a supplemental resource in face-to-face courses. (Boekaerts, 1999).  Yet despite its importance, research suggests that rather than utilizing the full potential of learning management and course management systems, instructors primarily use LMS and CMS as a delivery mode for course content (Boekarts, 1997; Vovides et al., 2007).  Such underutilization not only minimizes the capacities of such systems, but limits the opportunities for students to engage in multimodal self-regulated learning. This paper offers three specific techniques to improve self-regulated learning via LMS: flipped learning, chunking, and micro-learning.  Research findings have led to support for each of the above-mentioned techniques (Nwosisi et al., 2016; Miller, 1956; Major & Calandrino, 2018). The authors provide examples of techniques used in their own courses, how each facilitates self-regulated learning, and how utilizing the full capabilities of learning management systems engages students in multimodal self-regulated learning.  Common findings and recommendations will also be noted, with the goal of providing a framework for instructors to apply each technique via learning management systems in their own courses.
Foreign Correspondents between the Hammer and the Anvil
Authors: Saleh Alamira Samah
Published: September 2020

For many decades, Egypt has been considered a distinctive society in which individuals from different nations with different backgrounds and ideologies can live. However, it seems that the Egyptian political, social, and media landscape has witnessed considerable shifts in the dimensions of such diversity. This study examines the contemporary Egyptian perspective on the presence of foreign correspondents and the radical change in Egypt’s regulations toward their work, and moreover, the repercussions of such policies that might be affecting the safety, level of freedom, and sometimes the whole identity of foreign correspondents in Egypt. Moreover, it examines the tactics with which the government seeks to accentuate the discourses of “Othering” in Egyptian public perceptions via whipping up hype in the media. Undoubtedly, the events experienced by Egypt between 25 January 2011 and the present have changed the idea the state and society have of foreigners, in general, and foreign correspondents, in particular. Some indicators confirmed that a state of “xenophobia” has been escalating over the past nine years. Foreign correspondents and journalists have been among the groups harmed by this sentiment, to the detriment of their working conditions. Results show that the transitional period that followed Hosni Mubarak’s toppling in 2011 until today has witnessed many transformations in the handling of foreign correspondents’ work in Egypt. There have been attacks on and expulsions of journalists from Al Arabiya, Al Jazeera, The Associated Press, the BBC, CBS, CNN, Danish television, and others.
Validación de la escala barrat de impulsividad (bis-11) en población bogotana
Authors: Aguilar Bustamante Sandra Carolina , Valencia Casallas Olga Lucía , Villalba Javier
Published: September 2020

El presente trabajo se realizó con el fin de validar la Escala de Impulsividad de Barratt (bis-11) en población bogotana, y de esta forma aportar evidencia empírica que permita unificar los criterios de interpretación y análisis. Participaron 313 personas: 98 privadas de la libertad transitoriamente en Unidad de Reacción Inmediata (uri); 86 diagnosticadas con trastornos relacionados con impulsividad y 126 estudiantes universitarios. Se realizó la adaptación cultural de la prueba por medio de revisión por lingüista, juicio de expertos y pilotaje. Posteriormente, se definió el instrumento sometido a validación. Los resultados arrojaron una fiabilidad de la escala total de α 0,7 y para las sub escalas motora α 0,6, atencional α 0,5 y no planeada α 0,4; el análisis factorial exploratorio identificó 2 factores que explican el 29,77% de la varianza total. La evidencia permite concluir una calidad psicométrica moderada, por lo cual se recomienda no usar esta versión para diagnóstico y realizar la traducción de la última actualización de la escala original.
Funciones ejecutivas, rasgos de personalidad e impulsividad en condenados por acceso carnal violento
Authors: Pulido-Barbosa Álvaro , Ballén-Villamarín Marisol , Quiroga-Baquero Luis Alberto
Published: September 2020

Se evaluaron las funciones ejecutivas, los rasgos de personalidad y la impulsividad en 29 hombres condenados por acceso carnal violento y recluidos en la cárcel Modelo Bogotá-Colombia, mediante un cuestionario sociodemográfico, la Batería Neuropsicológica de Funciones Ejecutivas y Lóbulos Frontales (banfe), la Escala de Impulsividad de Barratt (bis 11) y el Cuestionario Exploratorio de Personalidad (ceper iii), con el fin de identificar relaciones entre sus puntuaciones. Los resultados evidencian que el 41,4 % de los participantes mostró puntuaciones diagnósticas en al menos un factor de impulsividad o de funciones ejecutivas. El 79,3 % de los participantes evidenció al menos un rasgo de personalidad, siendo los del tipo obsesivo-compulsivo, pasivo-agresivo y dependiente, los de mayor frecuencia. Se identificaron algunas correlaciones entre los factores de impulsividad, los rasgos de personalidad y las funciones ejecutivas. Estos hallazgos se discuten en términos de la relación entre los constructos evaluados, la agresión sexual y sus implicaciones sobre el tratamiento penitenciario.
La gestión del conocimiento y su aporte a la competitividad en las organizaciones: revisión sistemática de literatura
Authors: Benavides Reina Mara Rocío , Pedraza-Nájar Ximena Lucía
Published: September 2020

La dinámica global de los mercados ha generado necesidades específicas para que las organizaciones sean sostenibles en el tiempo, puesto que la turbulencia y el cambio son permanentes. Este escenario ha permitido identificar que no solo la actualización tecnológica se convierte en un reto para la estrategia organizacional, sino que el valor que tiene el conocimiento es insuperable y que su direccionamiento y control son y serán prioridad en todas las organizaciones de todos los sectores productivos y de servicios, especialmente en las pymes, quienes aportan a la economía global de manera significativa. Por esta razón, la presente revisión sistemática de literatura de los últimos 10 años, tiene como objetivo determinar la incursión de la gestión del conocimiento como ventaja competitiva que asegure la subsistencia organizacional en un entorno interno y externo cambiante. Se identifica la importancia y acogida que ha tenido en las pymes y en sectores específicos de la economía, como son: el petrolero, el educativo (educación superior), el solidario (tercer sector), el manufacturero y el bancario, a partir de los cuales, se lograron determinar las dimensiones en las que se enfatiza la gestión del conocimiento.
Comparative analysis of equipment performance in nuclear medicine
Authors: De Paula Vitor Moura , De Sá Lidia Vasconcellos , Braz Delson
Published: September 2020

To ensure satisfactory equipment performance, image reliability and accurate diagnosis a set of measurements and analysis named as quality control (QC) has to be established. QC is a routine practice where the essential quipment performance  or procedure is evaluated by comparing the results to a predefined acceptable range. Currently there are 448 Nuclear Medicine Services (NMS) in Brazil that have to comply with the standards and regulations stablished by Brazilian regulatory agencies the National Nuclear Energy Commission (CNEN) and the National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA). Both regualtory bodies have power to control and ensure compliance with their national regulations including quality control tests of equipments to be fulfilled by all NMS operating in Brazil. However, these standards do not establish minimum performance requirements for the most tests and do not guarantee the quality to the population health care. This paper aims to evaluate and analyze the performance limits of the quality control tests in nuclear medicine practice requested in Brazilian standards and compare them with available requirements addressed in international recommendations. Regarding performance limit evaluation many of the requested tests do not address a methodology or minimum performance values to ensure what is considered satisfactory in a quality control test.  It was found that Brazilian NMS standards need revision when compared to international recommendations.
INTERACTION OF SELECTED LACTIC ACID BACTERIA AND YEAST IMPROVES THE QUALITY OF PEARL MILLET SOURDOUGH BREAD
Authors: Akinola Stephen Abiola , Ateba Collins Njie , Osundahunsi Oluwatooyin Faramade
Published: September 2020

The effect of lactic acid bacteria and yeast interaction on the quality of pearl millet (PM) sourdough bread was investigated. Lactobacillus plantarum (A), Pediococcus pentosaceus (B), Lactobacillus pentosus (C), Saccharomyces cerevisiae (D) and Candida milleri (E) cultures were used singly and in combinations in sourdough fermentation. The proximate, physical and sensory properties of bread were evaluated using standard methods. The protein content ranged from 13.07% - 14.32%, ash (1.77% - 1.99%), fat (8.01% - 9.32%), crude fibre (0.77% - 1.25%), moisture (21.08% - 22.65%), carbohydrate (51.28%- 54.23%), loaf weight (75.28 g-108.32 g), loaf volume (89 cm3 – 130 cm3) and specific volume (1.0 cm3/g - 1.26 cm3/g). PMABE (Pearl Millet + Lb. plantarum + Lb. pentosus + C. milleri) was scored acceptable. The crude protein, fat, ash, fibre content and specific volume differed depending on the type of starters used in the development of sourdough bread. The use of co-cultures as starters could improves the physicochemical quality and acceptability of sourdough bread. Saccharomyces cerevisiae have been implicated in dough development, however, this study have shown that Candida milleri could also be a substitute in dough development in the pastry industry.
PROBABLE NOVEL PROBIOTICS: EPS PRODUCTION, CHOLESTEROL REMOVAL AND GLYCOCHOLATE DECONJUGATION OF LACTOBACILLUS PLANTARUM GA06 AND GA11 ISOLATED FROM LOCAL HANDMADE- CHEESE
Authors: ALP AVCI Gulcin , Cagatay Gamze , OZLUK CILAK Gizem , AVCI EMRE
Published: September 2020

In this study, it was aimed to investigate the effect of exopolysaccharide produced by 2 novel probiotic strains (Lactobacillus plantarum GA06 and GA11), isolated from local handmade cheese, on cholesterol mechanism and bile deconjugation. These two strains were thought to play an important role in cholesterol removal and may contribute to intestinal microbiota positively. The bacterial 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis was used for molecular identification of the strains. Exopolysaccharide production of the strains was identified by the phenol-sulphuric acid method whereas cholesterol removal and glycocholate deconjugation activity were evaluated via spectrophotometric methods. The exopolysaccharide production of L. plantarum GA11 and GA06 was determined as 96.5 and 32.5 mg/L, and the cholesterol removal amounts were found as 36.7% and 28.6% respectively. Glycocholate deconjugation activity of GA11 was detected higher than of GA06. A statistically significant difference was observed between the EPS production capacity of the strains and the removal of cholesterol (p<0.05). And also, a statistically significant correlation was found both between the EPS production capacity- cholesterol removal and between EPS production capacity-glycocholate deconjugation. According to the results of our study, L. plantarum GA11 strain appears to be a good and novel probiotic strain that has high probiotic potential. Further studies can be confirmed to determine specific more crucial health benefits.
Promesas de felicidad: individualismos y crisis de las democracias occidentales
Authors: Dipaola Esteban , Lutereau Luciano
Published: September 2020

El artículo reflexiona acerca de las sociedades de consumo y los problemas del lazo social frente a la emergencia de individualismos; estos afectan las formas tradicionales de organización de la vida en común a partir de solidaridades estables. La crisis institucional de la globalización es interrogada atendiendo a los procesos de individualización que operan flexibilizando los vínculos y las subjetividades. Para esto, la argumentación se sostiene a partir de la articulación de categorías provenientes del psicoanálisis y concepciones aportadas por la sociología contemporánea, con el objetivo de demostrar que el imperativo contemporáneo que obliga a la felicidad y la autonomía revela, en realidad, una contraparte depresiva que afecta a los individuos, a la vez que a las tradiciones políticas de las democracias occidentales.
Una política para erizos y otras herejías psicoanalíticas (reseña)
Authors: Rodríguez Jaime María Fernanda
Published: September 2020

Reseña: Bassols, Miquel. Una política para erizos y otras herejías psicoanalíticas. Buenos Aires: Grama Ediciones, 2018. 190 páginas.