bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A systematic flux analysis approach to identify metabolic vulnerabilities in human breast cancer cell lines
Authors: Martin Sheree D. , McGee Sean L.
Published: December 2019

Background

Increased flux through both glycolytic and oxidative metabolic pathways is a hallmark of breast cancer cells and is critical for their growth and survival. As such, targeting this metabolic reprograming has received much attention as a potential treatment approach. However, the heterogeneity of breast cancer cell metabolism, even within classifications, suggests a necessity for an individualised approach to treatment in breast cancer patients.

Methods

The metabolic phenotypes of a diverse panel of human breast cancer cell lines representing the major breast cancer classifications were assessed using real-time metabolic flux analysis. Flux linked to ATP production, pathway reserve capacities and specific macromolecule oxidation rates were quantified. Suspected metabolic vulnerabilities were targeted with specific pathway inhibitors, and relative cell viability was assessed using the crystal violet assay. Measures of AMPK and mTORC1 activity were analysed through immunoblotting.

Results

Breast cancer cells displayed heterogeneous energy requirements and utilisation of non-oxidative and oxidative energy-producing pathways. Quantification of basal glycolytic and oxidative reserve capacities identified cell lines that were highly dependent on individual pathways, while assessment of substrate oxidation relative to total oxidative capacity revealed cell lines that were highly dependent on individual macromolecules. Based on these findings, mild mitochondrial inhibition in ESH-172 cells, including with the anti-diabetic drug metformin, and mild glycolytic inhibition in Hs578T cells reduced relative viability, which did not occur in non-transformed MCF10a cells. The effects on viability were associated with AMPK activation and inhibition of mTORC1 signalling. Hs578T were also found to be highly dependent on glutamine oxidation and inhibition of this process also impacted viability.

Conclusions

Together, these data highlight that systematic flux analysis in breast cancer cells can identify targetable metabolic vulnerabilities, despite heterogeneity in metabolic profiles between individual cancer cell lines.
A survey of mathematical models of human performance using power and energy
Authors: Sreedhara Vijay Sarthy M. , Mocko Gregory M. , Hutchison Randolph E.
Published: December 2019

The ability to predict the systematic decrease of power during physical exertion gives valuable insights into health, performance, and injury. This review surveys the research of power-based models of fatigue and recovery within the area of human performance. Upon a thorough review of available literature, it is observed that the two-parameter critical power model is most popular due to its simplicity. This two-parameter model is a hyperbolic relationship between power and time with critical power as the power-asymptote and the curvature constant denoted by W′. Critical power (CP) is a theoretical power output that can be sustained indefinitely by an individual, and the curvature constant (W′) represents the amount of work that can be done above CP. Different methods and models have been validated to determine CP and W′, most of which are algebraic manipulations of the two-parameter model. The models yield different CP and W′ estimates for the same data depending on the regression fit and rounding off approximations. These estimates, at the subject level, have an inherent day-to-day variability called intra-individual variability (IIV) associated with them, which is not captured by any of the existing methods. This calls for a need for new methods to arrive at the IIV associated with CP and W′. Furthermore, existing models focus on the expenditure of W′ for efforts above CP and do not model its recovery in the sub-CP domain. Thus, there is a need for methods and models that account for (i) the IIV to measure the effectiveness of individual training prescriptions and (ii) the recovery of W′ to aid human performance optimization.
Evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity of Justicia secunda Vahl leaf extract using in vitro and in vivo inflammation models
Authors: Anyasor Godswill Nduka , Okanlawon Azeezat Adenike , Ogunbiyi Babafemi
Published: December 2019

Background

Justicia secundaVahl. is a medicinal plant used in ethnomedical practice as therapy to manage inflammation. Therefore, this study was designed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of methanol extract ofJ. secundaleaves (MEJSL) using in vitro and in vivo inflammation models.

Methods

Seventy-percent MEJSL was prepared following standard procedure. In vitro anti-inflammatory assays were performed using heat-induced bovine serum albumin (BSA) denaturation and erythrocyte membrane stabilization assays. Carrageenan and formaldehyde induced inflammation in rat models were used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of MEJSL in vivo.Diclofenac sodium was used as a reference drug. In addition, liver and kidney function assays and hematological analysis were carried out.

Results

Data revealed that varying concentrations of MEJSL significantly (P < 0.05) inhibited heat-induced BSA denaturation and stabilized erythrocyte membrane against hypotonicity-induced hemolysis when compared with diclofenac sodium in a concentration-dependent manner. In vivo study showed that 10 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) diclofenac sodium, 100 and 300 mg/kg b.w. MEJSL suppressed carrageenan-induced paw edema at the sixth hour by 71.14%, 83.08%, and 89.05%, respectively. Furthermore, 10 mg/kg b.w. diclofenac sodium, 100 and 300 mg/kg b.w. MEJSL inhibited formaldehyde-induced paw edema by 72.53%, 74.73%, and 76.48%, respectively. Animals treated with varying doses of MEJSL had reduced plasma aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase activities; urea and creatinine concentrations; and modulated hematological parameters when compared with the untreated control group.

Conclusions

Findings from this study showed that MEJSL exhibited substantial anti-inflammatory actions in the in vitro and in vivo models. It also indicated that MEJSL anti-inflammatory mechanisms of action could be through interference with phase 2 inflammatory stressors, upregulation of cytoprotective genes, stabilization of inflammatory cell membranes and immunomodulatory activity.
Comparative assessment of age, growth and food habit of the black-chinned tilapia, Sarotherodon melanotheron (Rüppell, 1852), from a closed and open lagoon, Ghana
Authors: Zuh Cephas Kwesi , Abobi Seth Mensah , Campion Benjamin Betey
Published: December 2019

Background

The black-chinned tilapia,Sarotherodon melanotheron, is the most abundant fish species in the Nakwa (an open lagoon) and Brenu (a closed lagoon) in the Central Region of Ghana. Aspects of the life history characteristics and the ecology of the fish populations in both lagoons were studied to assess the bio-ecological status of this important resource.

Methods

Fish samples were obtained from fishermen that fish on the Nakwa and Brenu lagoons using cast, drag and gill nets. The age of the fish was assessed from otoliths analysis and its growth modelled following the von Bertalanffy growth function. Morphometric characteristics of the fish populations were analysed using power regression and ANOVA for parameters comparisons, and Student’sttest to determine whether species grew isometrically. The percentage occurrence method was used to analyse the stomach contents of the fish.

Results

A total of 382 fish samples from both lagoons were measured, comprising 209 from Nakwa lagoon and 176 from Brenu lagoon. The size and weight of fish samples ranged between 3.9–11.5 cm total length and 1.0–27.3 g for Nakwa Lagoon and 5.6–12.8 cm total length and 3.2–29.8 g for the Brenu Lagoon. The estimated von Bertalanffy growth parameters wereL∞= 12.04 cm andK= 2.76/year for the Nakwa Lagoon samples andL∞= 13.44 cm andK= 3.27/year for Brenu Lagoon samples. Daily otolith incremental rate ranged from 0.01–0.03 mm per day to 0.01–0.02 mm per day for Nakwa and Brenu lagoons, respectively. Stomach content analysis of the fish samples revealed that the species are planktivorous and the range of food varied between the lagoons. Green algae were the most prevalent food item in the stomachs of the fish samples from Nakwa with the frequency of 69% whilst diatoms (80.5%) were most prevalent phytoplanktonic food item for the fish in Brenu lagoon.

Conclusions

The estimates of asymptotic length for the species in both lagoons are close to known values of the species length at first sexual maturity and points to intensive fishing pressure. As a consequence, a comprehensive sample-based survey is required in both lagoons to derive estimates of management reference points. The results of the stomach content analysis are beneficial to the construction of diet matrix for ecosystem models of the two systems.
Hidradenitis suppurativa and acne vulgaris and conglobata—systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Phan Kevin , Charlton Olivia , Smith Saxon D.
Published: December 2019

Background

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder which involves painful nodules and draining abscesses in flexural areas. Acne vulgaris and its more severe variants including acne conglobata and acne fulminans are also disorders involving the follicular unit. Given that follicular obstruction, dilatation and inflammation feature in both HS and acne vulgaris/conglobata, it has been suggested that HS is associated with acne vulgaris/conglobata.

Methods

The present systematic review and meta-analysis was performed according to recommended PRISMA guidelines. All eligible case-control studies comparing patients with HS vs non-HS were included in the present review. All studies must have included either the proportion of patients with acne vulgaris/conglobata in each group, or the summary effect size for association between HS and acne vulgaris/conglobata. The odds ratio (OR) was used as a summary statistic.

Results

From pooled unadjusted meta-analysis, we found a significantly higher proportion of patients with acne vulgaris/conglobata in HS cases compared to controls (OR 3.44, 95% CI 1.95–6.07,P < 0.0001,I2 = 100%). Pooled meta-analysis was also performed with adjusted effect sizes. This demonstrated that HS was significantly associated with acne vulgaris/conglobata after adjustment for potential confounders (OR 3.44, 95% CI 2.43–4.87,P < 0.00001,I2 = 99%).

Conclusions

In summary, a significant association was found between HS and acne vulgaris/conglobata. This has implications in terms of understanding the burden of disease on patient quality of life as well as consideration of optimal management strategies to target both disorders. Physicians taking care of patients with HS should be aware of this association.
Awareness and knowledge of interventional radiology among medical students at an Indian institution
Authors: Agrawal Deepsha , Renfrew Michael Alan , Singhal Sulove , Bhansali Yash
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Interventional radiology (IR) is a novel and evolving sub-specialty that encompasses image guided diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. With the advent of new imaging techniques and an increasing demand of minimally invasive procedures, IR continues to grow as a core component in medical and surgical therapeutics. Radiology teaching is a part of medical undergraduate curriculum; however, the medical undergraduate cohort lacks exposure to IR principles, methods and techniques. The purpose of this study is to determine the knowledge and awareness of IR among medical students in a single university in India.

Materials and methods

Electronic anonymous surveys were sent to 350 medical students of Pt. JNM Medical College, Raipur, India. Each survey comprised of questions assessing knowledge and exposure to IR. A total of 70 students (20%) responded.

Results

85.7% of respondents positively reported that radiologists have a role in diagnostic as well as therapeutic interventions, however, 60% of students cited a very poor/poor knowledge of IR. A larger part, 91.5%, stated that they would be interested in IR based teaching delivered as a part of their undergraduate teaching program. Those who knew at least one interventional radiology technique were 1.51 (95% CI: 1.02–2.22; p < 0.05) times more likely to be considering it as a career.

Conclusion

Medical Students demonstrate a poor knowledge of IR. This corresponds to a limited and inconsistent exposure to IR in medical schools. The study suggests that there is a need to deliver an IR based curriculum in medical undergraduate teaching in India. Our proposition includes introducing a regulated IR teaching in undergraduate medical education using new module designs and presenting medical students an opportunity to attend IR education days, symposiums and conferences to incite early participation.
Multi-scale characterizations of colon polyps via computed tomographic colonography
Authors: Cao Weiguo , Pomeroy Marc J. , Gao Yongfeng , Barish Matthew A. , Abbasi Almas F. , Pickhardt Perry J. , Liang Zhengrong
Published: December 2019

Texture features have played an essential role in the field of medical imaging for computer-aided diagnosis. The gray-level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM)-based texture descriptor has emerged to become one of the most successful feature sets for these applications. This study aims to increase the potential of these features by introducing multi-scale analysis into the construction of GLCM texture descriptor. In this study, we first introduce a new parameter - stride, to explore the definition of GLCM. Then we propose three multi-scaling GLCM models according to its three parameters, (1) learning model by multiple displacements, (2) learning model by multiple strides (LMS), and (3) learning model by multiple angles. These models increase the texture information by introducing more texture patterns and mitigate direction sparsity and dense sampling problems presented in the traditional Haralick model. To further analyze the three parameters, we test the three models by performing classification on a dataset of 63 large polyp masses obtained from computed tomography colonoscopy consisting of 32 adenocarcinomas and 31 benign adenomas. Finally, the proposed methods are compared to several typical GLCM-texture descriptors and one deep learning model. LMS obtains the highest performance and enhances the prediction power to 0.9450 with standard deviation 0.0285 by area under the curve of receiver operating characteristics score which is a significant improvement.
Draft genome sequences of five Calonectria species from Eucalyptus plantations in China, Celoporthe dispersa, Sporothrix phasma and Alectoria sarmentosa
Authors: Liu Feifei , Chen Shuaifei , Ferreira Maria A. , Chang Runlei , Sayari Mohammad , Kanzi Aquillah M. , Wingfield Brenda D. , Wingfield Michael J. , Pizarro David , Crespo Ana , Divakar Pradeep K. , de Beer Z. Wilhelm , Duong Tuan A.
Published: December 2019

Draft genome sequences of fiveCalonectriaspecies [includingCalonectria aciculata,C. crousiana,C. fujianensis,C. honghensisandC. pseudoturangicola],Celoporthe dispersa,Sporothrix phasmaandAlectoria sarmentosaare presented. Species ofCalonectriaare the causal agents of Eucalyptus leaf blight disease, threatening the growth and sustainability ofEucalyptusplantations in China.Celoporthe dispersais the causal agent of stem canker in nativeSyzygium cordatumand exoticTibouchina granulosain South Africa.Sporothrix phasmawas first discovered in the infructescences ofProtea laurifoliaandProtea neriifoliain South Africa.Alectoria sarmentosais fruticose lichen belongs to the alectorioid clade of the family Parmeliaceae. The availability of these genome sequences will facilitate future studies on the systematics, population genetics, and genomics of these fungi.
Efficacy of Ruxolitinib in Patients With Chronic Neutrophilic Leukemia and Atypical Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Dao Kim-Hien T. , Gotlib Jason , Deininger Michael M.N. , Oh Stephen T. , Cortes Jorge E. , Collins Robert H. , Winton Elliot F. , Parker Dana R. , Lee Hyunjung , Reister Anna , Schultz  , Savage Samantha , Stevens  , Brockett Chase , Subbiah Nan , Press Richard D. , Raess Philipp W. , Cascio Michael , Dunlap Jennifer , Chen Yiyi , Degnin Catherine , Maxson Julia E. , Tognon Cristina E. , Macey Tara , Druker Brian J. , Tyner Jeffrey W.
Published: December 2019

PURPOSE

Colony-stimulating factor-3 receptor ( CSF3R)-T618I is a recurrent activating mutation in chronic neutrophilic leukemia (CNL) and to a lesser extent in atypical chronic myeloid leukemia (aCML) resulting in constitutive JAK-STAT signaling. We sought to evaluate safety and efficacy of the JAK1/2 inhibitor ruxolitinib in patients with CNL and aCML, irrespective of CSF3R mutation status.

METHODS

We conducted a phase II study of ruxolitinib in 44 patients (21 CNL and 23 aCML). The primary end point was overall hematologic response rate (ORR) by the end of 6 continuous 28-day cycles for the first 25 patients enrolled. We considered a response as either partial (PR) or complete response (CR). We expanded accrual to 44 patients to increase our ability to evaluate secondary end points, including grade ≥ 3 adverse events, spleen volume, symptom assessment, genetic correlates of response, and 2-year survival.

RESULTS

ORR was 32% for the first 25 enrolled patients (8 PR [7 CNL and 1 aCML]). In the larger cohort of 44 patients, 35% had a response (11 PR [9 CNL and 2 aCML] and 4 CR [CNL]), and 50% had oncogenic CSF3R mutations. The mean absolute allele burden reduction of CSF3R-T618I after 6 cycles was greatest in the CR group, compared with the PR and no response groups. The most common cause of death is due to disease progression. Grade ≥ 3 anemia and thrombocytopenia were observed in 34% and 14% of patients, respectively. No serious adverse events attributed to ruxolitinib were observed.

CONCLUSION

Ruxolitinib was well tolerated and demonstrated an estimated response rate of 32%. Patients with a diagnosis of CNL and/or harboring CSF3R-T618I were most likely to respond.
Timing and Risk Factors Associated With Postoperative Stroke in Vascular Surgery Patients Using Time-Varying Coefficients From a Cox Model
Authors: Moore Laurel E. , Sferra Joseph J. , Engoren Milo
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND:

Mechanisms of postoperative stroke are poorly understood, particularly for strokes occurring after uneventful emergence from anesthesia. We sought to create a model to study retrospectively the timing and associations for stroke in a high-risk surgery population.

METHODS:

Using a large prospective database containing detailed information on the occurrence and timing of stroke, we identified patients undergoing procedures involving the distal vascular (DV) and the cerebral vascular (CV) to assess the association between perioperative factors and stroke. We used separate Cox regressions with time-varying coefficients, one for each cohort, to assess the association between baseline factors and the timing of postoperative stroke within the DV and CV cohorts. Using time-varying coefficients allows hazard ratios to vary over time rather than assuming that the hazard ratio remains constant with time. Propensity score matching was used to compare the timing of stroke between DV and CV groups.

RESULTS:

Among the 80,185 patients with qualifying procedures, there were 711 strokes (0.9%) in the first 30 days after surgery. Stroke incidence was lower for DV patients (0.5%, 306/57,553; P < .001) than CV (1.8%, 405/21,940) and the majority of strokes in the DV group were delayed, occurring between postoperative (POD) days 2 and 30 (236/306, 77%). Among the 711 patients who had a stroke, the proportion of strokes that occurred on day 0 was 8% (n = 24 of 306 strokes) in the DV group compared to 35% in the CV group (n = 140 of 405 strokes). Factors associated with stroke on POD 1 for both groups were preoperative mechanical ventilation and emergent procedures. Acute renal failure and female sex were highly associated with delayed stroke (POD 2–30). Perioperative blood transfusion was associated with an increased hazard of delayed stroke in the DV group and a hazard ratio that increased with time in the CV group.

CONCLUSIONS:

After adjusting for confounding, stroke was more common and occurred earlier in the CV group. Factors associated with delayed postoperative stroke include acute renal failure, emergent procedures, female sex, preoperative mechanical ventilation, and perioperative transfusion.
Current Neurologic Assessment and Neuroprotective Strategies in Cardiac Anesthesia: A Survey to the Membership of the Society of Cardiovascular Anesthesiologists
Authors: Krause Martin , Morabito Joseph E. , Mackensen G. Burkhard , Perry Tjörvi E. , Bartels Karsten
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND:

Neurologic injury and cognitive disorder after cardiac surgery are associated with morbidity and mortality. Variability in the application of neuroprotective strategies likely exists during cardiac surgery. The Society of Cardiovascular Anesthesiologists (SCA) conducted a survey among its members on common perioperative neuroprotective strategies: assessment of aortic atheromatous burden, management of intraoperative blood pressure, and use of cerebral oximetry.

METHODS:

A 15-item survey was developed by 3 members of the SCA Continuous Practice Improvement - Cerebral Protection Working Group. The questionnaire was then circulated among all working group members, adapted, and tested for face validity. On March 26, 2018, the survey was sent to members of the SCA via e-mail using the Research Electronic Data Capture system. Responses were recorded until April 16, 2018.

RESULTS:

Of the 3645 surveys e-mailed, 526 members responded (14.4%). Most responders worked in academic institutions (58.3%), followed by private practices (38.7%). Epiaortic ultrasound for the assessment of aortic atheromatous burden was most commonly utilized at the surgeon’s request (46.5%). Cerebral oximetry was most commonly used in patients with increased perioperative risk of cerebral injury (41.4%). Epiaortic ultrasound (1.9%) and cerebral oximetry (5.2%) were rarely part of a standardized monitoring approach. A majority of respondents (52.0%) reported no standardized management strategies for neuroprotection during cardiac surgery at their institution. A total of 55.3% stated that no standardized institutional guidelines were in place for managing a patient’s blood pressure intraoperatively or during cardiopulmonary bypass. When asked about patients at risk for postoperative cerebral injury, 41.3% targeted a blood pressure goal >65 mmHg during cardiopulmonary bypass. The majority of responders (60.4%) who had access to institutional rates of postoperative stroke/cerebral injury had standard neuroprotective strategies in place.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our data indicate that approximately half of the respondents to this SCA survey do not use standardized guidelines/standard operating procedures for perioperative cerebral protection. The lack of standardized neuroprotective strategies during cardiac surgery may impact postoperative neurologic outcomes. Further investigations are warranted and should assess the association of standardized neuroprotective approaches and postoperative neurological outcomes.
ACSM CERTIFICATIONS: DEFINING AN EXERCISE PROFESSION FROM CONCEPT TO ASSESSMENT
Authors: Magal Meir , Neric Francis B.
Published: December 2019

Apply It!

• Understand the origination of the ACSM four core, professional certifications and the process of maintaining the integrity of these certifications.

• Identify recent changes to the ACSM four core, professional certifications.

• Recognize the basic differences between the ACSM four core, professional certifications.
ADDING A NEW TECHNIQUE TO ASSESS VISCERAL OBESITY TO YOUR REPERTOIRE
Authors: Van Guilder Gary P. , Kjellsen Alicia
Published: December 2019

Apply It!

After having read this article, the health and fitness professional will be able to

• Measure sagittal abdominal diameter to estimate visceral obesity in adults

• Discuss with clients and patients the relationship between visceral fat and chronic disease

• Incorporate abdominal height into health screenings
BEYOND OUR OWN UNDERSTANDING OF INCLUSION
Authors: Story Kennie Q. , Gallagher Michael
Published: December 2019

Apply It!Summary Statement

• Professionals can begin to think about how they can be more prepared to work with clients who are transgender.

• Those in the fitness world will be able to think beyond their own ideas of inclusiveness.

• Professionals will learn more about the health disparities people who are transgender may face.

• Professionals will learn how other sectors of society are moving toward more inclusiveness and begin discussing similar changes inside their own fitness centers or businesses.

This article gives a brief review of current research regarding the transgender community in fitness, touches on health disparities clients who are transgender may face, and what we can learn from the progress other sectors in society have made to address inclusiveness for the growing transgender community.
What do archaeal and eukaryotic histidine kinases sense?
Authors: Papon Nicolas , Stock Ann M.
Published: December 2019

Signal transduction systems configured around a core phosphotransfer step between a histidine kinase and a cognate response regulator protein occur in organisms from all domains of life. These systems, termed two-component systems, constitute the majority of multi-component signaling pathways in Bacteria but are less prevalent in Archaea and Eukarya. The core signaling domains are modular, allowing versatility in configuration of components into single-step phosphotransfer and multi-step phosphorelay pathways, the former being predominant in bacteria and the latter in eukaryotes. Two-component systems regulate key cellular regulatory processes that provide adaptive responses to environmental stimuli and are of interest for the development of antimicrobial therapeutics, biotechnology applications, and biosensor engineering. In bacteria, two-component systems have been found to mediate responses to an extremely broad array of extracellular and intracellular chemical and physical stimuli, whereas in archaea and eukaryotes, the use of two-component systems is more limited. This review summarizes recent advances in exploring the repertoire of sensor histidine kinases in the Archaea and Eukarya domains of life.
The monograph reveals the history of formation of the sources of law governing state supervision of quality of education, defining the mechanism of legal regulation of the Federal state quality control of education and the practice of law in this area currently. It is intended for employees of educational organizations, teachers, postgraduates, law students.
Authors: CHyernyavskiy Alyeksandr , Pashentsev Dmitriy , Ladnushkina Nina , Feklin Sergey
Published: December 2019

The monograph reveals the history of formation of the sources of law governing state supervision of quality of education, defining the mechanism of legal regulation of the Federal state quality control of education and the practice of law in this area currently.
It is intended for employees of educational organizations, teachers, postgraduates, law students.
State regulation of educational activities
Authors: CHyernyavskiy Alyeksandr , Pashentsev Dmitriy , Ladnushkina Nina , Feklin Sergey
Published: December 2019

The monograph deals with the theory and practice of legislation on licensing, state accreditation, control and supervision in the field of education.
It is recommended to civil servants of Executive authorities of subjects of the Russian Federation exercising the powers transferred by the Russian Federation in the field of education, and also to heads of educational organizations, teachers and students of law faculties (institutes).
Landscape vulnerability: concept and assessment
Authors: Kesoretskikh Ivan , Zotov Sergey
Published: December 2019

The monograph presents a methodology for assessing the vulnerability of landscapes to external influences. A comparative analysis of the concepts of "stability", "sensitivity", "vulnerability" in relation to natural complexes. An overview of existing methods for assessing the vulnerability of natural complexes is presented. The author's method of assessing the vulnerability of landscapes to anthropogenic impacts is described. The methodology is based on: selection and justification of criteria for assessing the vulnerability of landscapes; preparation of a parametric matrix and gradation of assessment criteria in accordance with the developed vulnerability classes; calculation of weighting factors of vulnerability assessment parameters; selection of optimal territorial operational unit for landscape vulnerability assessment. The method is implemented in the GIS environment "Assessment of vulnerability of landscapes of the Kaliningrad region to anthropogenic impacts", created by the authors using modern geoinformation products. The specificity of spatial differentiation of different landscapes in terms of vulnerability to anthropogenic impacts at the regional and local levels is revealed. It is stated that the use of the methodology for assessing the vulnerability of landscapes to anthropogenic impacts and its integration into the system of nature management will ensure a balanced account of geoecological features and environmental priorities in territorial planning.
It is of interest to specialists in the field of rational nature management, environmental protection, spatial planning.
Comparative Study on the Extraction and Quantification of Polyphenols from Citrus Peels Using Maceration and Ultrasonic Technique
Authors: Saini Anuradha , Panesar Parmjit Singh , Bera Manab Bandhu
Published: December 2019

Citrus processing industry generates the large amount of byproducts, which are rich in polyphenols that have high antioxidant properties. These polyphenols can be extracted and utilized in different applications. In present investigation, comparative study was undertaken using maceration (M) and ultrasound assisted extraction (UAE) for the efficient extraction of polyphenols from citrus peels of different cultivars such as ‘kinnow mandarin’ (Citrus reticulata) and ‘mousambi’ (Citrus limetta). The total phenols (28.30 mg/GAE g dw), flavonoids (4.40 mg/CE g dw) and DPPH radical scavenging activity (48.23%) were attained from kinnow mandarin peels whereas total phenols (21.99 mg/GAE g dw), flavonoids (2.07 mg/CE g dw) and DPPH radical scavenging activity (39.73%) were obtained from mousambi peels using UAE method. Therefore, the results indicated the efficiency of UAE method as compared to maceration technique for the extraction of polyphenols in terms of high yield and their antioxidant properties.
Modified Atmospheric Packaging (MAP) of Trichosanthes Dioica (Parwal) Sweet and Effect of Storage Temperature on the Physicochemical, Microbial and Sensory Characteristics
Authors: Mishra Brij Bhushan , Pandey Rajendra Kumar , Patel Avinash Singh , Pradhan Rama Chandra
Published: December 2019

Trichosanthes dioica (Parwal) sweet was packed under air and modified atmospheric packaging (MAP) with a gas composition of 98% N2 (2% O2 impurity), and 70% N2 : 30% CO2, respectively. The samples were stored at 5, 10 and 25oC and evaluated for various microbial count, nutritional analysis (moisture, fat and protein), titratable acidity (TA), total carotenoids, vitamin C, DPPH inhibition activity, total phenolic content, hydroxymethylfurfuraldehyde (HMF), thiobarbituric acid (TBA), free fatty acid (FFA), Textural profile analysis and sensory attributes. Results showed that a combination of 70 %N2+30% CO2 had most significant effect to arrest the microbial growth followed by 100% N2 and fresh. Similarly this combination of N2 and CO2 retained the proximate and textural quality of the products concluded that the MAP conditions of 70% N2: 30% CO2 and storage at 5°C, were the most suitable conditions for preserving the Parwal sweet up to 50 day.
Physico-Chemical, Textural and Sensory Characteristics of Wheat Flour Biscuits Supplemented with Different Levels of Whey Protein Concentrate
Authors: Ahmed Hiba Ahmed Mohammed , Ashraf Syed Amir , Awadelkareem Amir Mahgoub , Alam Jahoor , Mustafa Abdelmoniem Ibrahim
Published: December 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the nutritional, non-nutritional as well as physico-chemical characteristics of biscuits developed from the supplementation of wheat flour with different levels of whey protein concentrate (WPC). The biscuits were prepared by using composite blends of wheat flour (WF) and WPC in different combination such as 100:0 (WF), 95:5 (WWP 5%), 90:10 (WWP 10%) and 85:15 (WWP 15). Proximate analysis of control as well as treated sample showed significant rise in crude protein content, with increase in WPC supplementation. Moreover, Non-nutritional factor such as tannin content and polyphenols was found to be highest in WF sample followed by WWP (5%), WWP (10%) and WWP (15%). In addition to that, in-vitro protein digestibility (IVPD) was found to be highest in WPC and when IVPD was compared with the crude protein, a significant difference was observed. Additionally, with the increase in WPC ratio the concentration of lysine, aspartic acid and glutamic acid was improved. Moreover mineral analysis revealed that, WF had highest amount of iron 0.66 mg/100g followed by WWP (5%), WWP (10%), WWP (15%) and WPC. Moreover, spread ratio of cookies found to be significant with the increase in the levels of WPC. Sensory evaluation of the samples revealed that, WWP (15%) had highest acceptance rating followed by WWP (10%). Based upon our investigation, we found that WPC could be a good source of supplementation for the development of protein enriched biscuits to combat the problem of malnutrition.
Perceptions of acute hospital occupational therapy services: developing a new model of care for occupational therapy on acute medical wards
Authors: Kingston Gail , Pain Tilley , Murphy Kym , Bennett Michelle , Watson Michelle
Published: December 2019

Background/Aims

This study was conducted at a regional tertiary referral facility in Australia. It was part of a project to implement a new model of care for occupational therapy services on medical wards. Before the new model was implemented, focus groups were conducted to explore the perceived role of the occupational therapist on the acute medical ward, identify potential barriers to changing the service and garner support for the change in service.

Methods

Three focus groups were held. The groups consisted of nursing, physiotherapy and speech pathology staff who worked on acute medical wards. Participants were asked for their perception of the role of occupational therapy on the acute medical ward. Audio-recordings of the groups were transcribed and analysed.

Results

Qualitative content analysis highlighted the following themes: assessment of patient function; ‘safe discharge’; more than assessment; equipment and home modifications; collaboration and communication; delegating tasks to assistants; and specialist intervention strategies.

Conclusions

Multidisciplinary team members' overriding perception is that occupational therapists in acute care settings provide assessment of patient function for the specific purpose of safe discharge. Some participants recalled that occupational therapists had a greater role in ensuring patients returned to their chosen function through rehabilitation and home visits, suggesting support for a change to our proposed post-acute model of care. Concerns highlighted by focus group members regarding increased workload for multidisciplinary team members and loss of communication need to be addressed to ensure the change in service is successful.
Intensity-dependent effect of pulsed and continuous therapeutic ultrasound on endothelial function: a randomised crossover clinical trial
Authors: Hauck Melina , da Silva Paulitsch Felipe , Cruz Jeferson Mendez , Martins Cassio Noronha , Oliveira Murilo Rezende , Puntel Gustavo Orione , Vargas da Silva Antônio Marcos , Signori Luis Ulisses
Published: December 2019

Background/Aims

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of different intensities and waveforms of therapeutic ultrasound on endothelial function in typically healthy participants.

Methods

A total of 15 participants were evaluated over 2 consecutive days. Different intensities of continuous and pulsed (20% duty cycle) 1-MHz ultrasound were applied to the brachial artery for 5 minutes each. Endothelial function was measured using flow-mediated dilation technique before and immediately after ultrasound was applied.

Results

Compared to baseline values, endothelium-dependent vasodilation increased with both continuous (2.8%) and pulsed (1.6%) ultrasound at an intensity of 0.4 W/cm2SPTA. At 1.2 W/cm2SPTA, endothelium-dependent vasodilation was 4.1% above baseline for pulsed and 5.3% above baseline for continuous waveforms. There was no additional increase in vasodilation at intensities above 1.2 W/cm2SPTA. The percentage of endothelium-dependent vasodilation was similar for the all of the different waveforms studied.

Conclusions

Both continuous and pulsed ultrasound waveforms promote endothelium-dependent vasodilation. There was a dose-dependent increase in vasodilation at intensities from 0.4 W/cm2SPTA to 1.2 W/cm2SPTA. Pulsed is more efficient than continuous ultrasound because it produces the same effect on endothelium-dependent vasodilation while employing 20% of the energy applied with continuous ultrasound.
Análisis multivariable de las competencias transversales en la universidad desde la visión del estudiante
Authors: Martínez Clares Pilar , González Morga Natalia
Published: December 2019

INTRODUCCIÓN. La formación de calidad es entendida como aquella que se ajusta a las necesidades sociolaborales del momento. Las competencias transversales forman parte del currículo universitario y su relevancia estriba en su capacidad de ser generalizables y transferibles a distintos contextos y actividades en el actual escenario laboral volátil y complejo. MÉTODO. Este trabajo se realiza bajo un diseño metodológico descriptivo y transversal que pretende valorar la formación en competencias transversales de los estudiantes de Grado de la Universidad de Murcia. Para ello, se realiza un análisis de discrepancias entre el desarrollo de las competencias, grado de dominio del estudiante y la importancia concedida para el desarrollo profesional, de cuyo procedimiento multivariable se obtiene información sobre la satisfacción, eficacia, funcionalidad y ajuste de la formación recibida. Participan en la investigación 1.137 estudiantes de último año de Grado de las cinco ramas de conocimiento mediante un cuestionario diseñado ad hoc. RESULTADOS. Los datos muestran un grado de satisfacción medio-bajo con la formación recibida especialmente en Ciencias Experimentales; la eficacia de la universidad varía de unas ramas de conocimiento a otras, de igual manera que la percepción de utilidad de la formación adquirida para el desarrollo profesional, obteniendo las valoraciones más altas en ambas variables los estudiantes de ingeniería. Además, se percibe un desequilibrio competencial entre desarrollo, dominio y relevancia extensible a todas las titulaciones que, a pesar de las discrepancias detectadas, muestra una tendencia positiva hacia la adecuación de la formación universitaria a los requerimientos profesionales. DISCUSIÓN. Los resultados muestran líneas prioritarias de acción en la dirección de las tendencias actuales de innovación e investigación para reorientar el sistema formativo universitario hacia un proyecto de excelencia y conexión con el mundo sociolaboral.
Medida de la competencia para programar AICLE y diagnóstico de las necesidades de formación docente
Authors: Custodio Espinar Magdalena , García Ramos José Manuel
Published: December 2019

INTRODUCCIÓN. En un contexto de marcada heterogeneidad en la formación recibida para impartir AICLE, este artículo presenta el proceso de diseño y validación de un instrumento de medida del nivel de integración de los principios metodológicos AICLE en los estilos de programación de docentes habilitados/acreditados de centros bilingües. MÉTODO. El objetivo es validar una herramienta que sirva para medir la competencia docente para programar AICLE y diagnosticar las áreas que requieren formación. Para ello ha sido necesario definir el constructo “programación AICLE” a partir de un modelo de programación que integra los principios fundamentales del enfoque. Este constructo ha servido para diseñar la estructura inicial del cuestionario. Esta primera versión fue sometida a una validación de expertos, que ha permitido reducir el número de ítems y mejorar su claridad, precisión y relevancia. El cuestionario resultante ha sido aplicado a una muestra aleatoria estratificada de 383 docentes, de 47 centros bilingües de primaria y secundaria, distribuidos en las cinco direcciones de área territorial de la Comunidad de Madrid. RESULTADOS. Los análisis realizados han demostrado que el cuestionario es una herramienta fiable y válida para recoger información sobre el constructo que mide y han permitido diseñar una versión final del cuestionario denominado CIPMA (Cuestionario de Integración de los Principios Metodológicos AICLE). DISCUSIÓN. Todo ello permite concluir que el CIPMA es un cuestionario validado y listo para ser aplicado en otros contextos, con otras muestras, para medir la competencia de los docentes habilitados para programar AICLE y diagnosticar sus necesidades reales de formación. Esta estrategia de medición de la competencia y el diagnóstico de necesidades de formación concretas puede contribuir a lograr una mayor homogeneización de la competencia docente para programar lecciones de AICLE en los centros bilingües.
Vector magnetocardiography measurement with a compact elliptically polarized laser-pumped magnetometer
Authors: Zheng Wenqiang , Su Shengran , Zhang Guoyi , Bi Xin , Lin Qiang
Published: December 2019

We report on a practical approach to vector biomagnetism measurement with an optically pumped magnetometer for measuring total magnetic field intensity. Its application to vector magnetocardiography is experimentally demonstrated with a compact elliptically polarized laser-pumped M
x
atomic magnetometer (EPMx OPM). The approach is proved to be effective and able to provide more complete cardiac magnetic information. The cardiac magnetic vectors are displayed in three-dimensional space in the form of magnetic vector loops. The sensor configuration and the image processing method here are expected to form further values, especially for multi-channel vector biomagnetism measurement, clinical diagnosis, and field source reconstruction.
Steerable OCT catheter for real-time assistance during teleoperated endoscopic treatment of colorectal cancer
Authors: Mora Oscar Caravaca , Zanne Philippe , Zorn Lucile , Nageotte Florent , Zulina Natalia , Gravelyn Sara , Montgomery Paul , de Mathelin Michel , Dallemagne Bernard , Gora Michalina J.
Published: December 2019

When detected early, colorectal cancer can be treated with minimally invasive flexible endoscopy. However, since only specialized experts can delineate margins and perform endoscopic resections of lesions, patients still often undergo colon resections. To better assist in the performance of surgical tasks, a robotized flexible interventional endoscope was previously developed, having two additional side channels for surgical instrument. We propose to enhance the imaging capabilities of this device by combining it with optical coherence tomography (OCT). For this purpose, we have developed a new steerable OCT instrument with an outer diameter of 3.5 mm. The steerable instrument is terminated with a 2 cm long transparent sheath to allow three-dimensional OCT imaging using a side-focusing optical probe with two external scanning actuators. The instrument is connected to an OCT imaging system built around the OCT Axsun engine, with a 1310 nm center wavelength swept source laser and 100 kHz A-line rate. Once inserted in one of the side channels of the robotized endoscope, bending, rotation and translation of the steerable OCT instrument can be controlled by a physician using a joystick. Ex vivo and in vivo tests show that the novel, steerable and teleoperated OCT device enhances dexterity, allowing for inspection of the surgical field without the need for changing the position of the main endoscope.
Evaluating entropy rate of laser chaos and shot noise
Authors: Guo Xiaomin , Liu Tong , Wang Lijing , Fang Xin , Zhao Tong , Virte Martin , Guo Yanqiang
Published: December 2019

Evaluating entropy rate of high-dimensional chaos and shot noise from analog raw signals remains elusive and important in information security. We experimentally present an accurate assessment of entropy rate for physical process randomness. The entropy generation of optical-feedback laser chaos and physical randomness limit from shot noise are quantified and unambiguously discriminated using the growth rate of average permutation entropy value in memory time. The permutation entropy difference of filtered laser chaos with varying embedding delay time is investigated experimentally and theoretically. High-resolution maps of the entropy difference are observed over the range of the injection-feedback parameter space. We also clarify an inverse relationship between the entropy rate and time delay signature of laser chaos over a wide range of parameters. Compared to the original chaos, the time delay signature is suppressed up to 95% with the minimum of 0.015 via frequency-band extractor, and the experiment agrees well with the theory. Our system provides a commendable entropy evaluation and source for physical random number generation.
Experimental probing of turbulence using a continuous spectrum of asymmetric OAM beams
Authors: Watkins Richard J. , Dai Kunjian , White Graham , Li Wenzhe , Miller J. Keith , Morgan Kaitlyn S. , Johnson Eric G.
Published: December 2019

Propagation of a continuous spectrum of orbital angular momentum (OAM) states through a realistic and controlled 3-dimensional turbulent condition has not been studied to date to the authors’ knowledge. Using the Higher Order Bessel-gauss Beams Integrated in Time (HOBBIT) system and a 60 meter optical path Variable Turbulence Generator (VTG), we demonstrate that by changing the OAM in a continuous scan, a spectrum of OAMs provide an opportunity to take advantage of additional propagation channels within the aperture of the transmitter and optical path to the receiver. Experimental results are provided illustrating the HOBBIT system’s ability to position the beam in space and time to exploit eigenchannels in the turbulent medium. This technique can be used to probe the turbulence at time scales much faster than the Greenwood frequency.