bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combining Tissue and Circulating Tumor DNA Increases the Detection Rate of CTNNB1 Mutation in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Oversoe Stine Karlsen , Clement Michelle Simone , Weber Britta , Grønbæk Henning , Hamilton-Dutoit Stephen Jacques , Sorensen Boe Sandahl , Kelsen Jens
Published: October 2020

Background and aims: Studies suggest that mutations in the CTNNB1 gene are predictive of response to immunotherapy, an emerging therapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Analysis of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) offers the possibility of serial non-invasive mutational profiling of tumors. Combining tumor tissue and ctDNA analysis may increase the detection rate of mutations.This study aimed to evaluate the frequency of the CTNNB1 p.T41A mutation in ctDNA and tumor samples from HCC patients and to evaluate the concordance rates between plasma and tissue. We further evaluated changes in ctDNA after various HCC treatment modalities and the impact of the CTNNB1 p.T41A mutation on the clinical course of HCC.Methods: We used droplet digital PCR to analyze plasma from 95 patients and the corresponding tumor samples from 37 patients during three years of follow up. Results: In tumor tissue samples, the mutation rate was 8.1% (3/37). In ctDNA from HCC patients, we found a CTNNB1 mutation rate of 9.5% (9/95) in the pre-treatment samples. Adding results from plasma analysis to the subgroup of patients with available tissue samples, the mutation detection rate increased to 13.5% (5/37). There was no difference in overall survival according to CTNNB1 mutational status. Serial testing of ctDNA indicated a clonal evolution of HCC or arising of multicentric tumors with separate genetic profiles.Conclusion: Combining analysis of ctDNA and tumor tissue increased the detection rate of CTNNB1 mutation in HCC patients. A liquid biopsy approach may be useful in a tailored therapy of HCC.
Dichloroacetate and PX-478 Exhibit Strong Synergistic Effects in a Various Number of Cancer Cell Lines.
Authors: Parczyk Jonas , Ruhnau Jérôme , Pelz Carsten , Schilling Max , Wu Hao , Piaskowski Nicole Nadine , Eickholt Britta , Kühn Hartmut , Danker Kerstin , Klein Andreas
Published: October 2020

Background: One key approach for anticancer therapy is drug combination. Drug combinations can help reduce doses and thereby decrease side effects. Further, the likelihood of drug resistance is reduced. Distinct alterations in tumour metabolism have been described in past decades, but metabolism has yet to be targeted in clinical cancer therapy. Recently, we found evidence for a synergism between dichloroacetate (DCA), a pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase inhibitor and HIF1-α inhibitor PX-478. In this study, we aimed to analyse this synergism in cell lines of different cancer types and to identify the underlying biochemical mechanisms.Methods: The dose-dependent antiproliferative effects of the single drugs and their combination were assessed using MTT or SRB assays. FACS, Western blot and HPLC analyses were performed to investigate changes in reactive oxygen species levels, apoptosis and the cell cycle. Additionally, real-time metabolic analyses (Seahorse) were performed with DCA-treated MCF-7 cells.Results: The combination of DCA and PX-478 produced synergistic effects in all eight cancer cell lines tested, including colorectal, lung, breast, cervical, liver and brain cancer. Reactive oxygen species generation and apoptosis played important roles in this synergism. Furthermore, cell proliferation was inhibited by the combination treatment.Conclusions: Here, we found that these cancer metabolism-targeting compounds exhibited potent synergism across all tested cancer cell lines. Thus, we highly recommend the combination of these two compounds for progression to in vivo translational and clinical trials.
Alzheimer’s Cerebrospinal Biomarkers from Lumipulse Fully Automated Immunoassay: Concordance with Amyloid-Beta PET and Manual Immunoassay in Koreans
Authors: Moon Sohee , Kim Sujin , Mankhong Sakulrat , Choi Seong Hye , Vandijck Manu , Kostanjevecki Vesna , Jeong Jee Hyang , Yoon Soo Jin , Park Kyung Won , Kim Eun-Joo , Yoon Bora , Kim Hee Jin , Jang Jae-Won , Hong Jin Yong , Park Dong-Ho , Shaw Leslie M. , Kang Ju-Hee
Published: October 2020

Background: Universal Alzheimer’s disease (AD) cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarker cutoffs from immunoassays with low interlaboratory variability could improve diagnostic accuracy and help predict disease progression. To determine the diagnostic cutoffs of CSF AD biomarkers measured with three immunoassay platforms, including fully automated Lumipulse based on b-amyloid (Ab) positron emission tomography (PET) status, to determine diagnostic utility and clinical predictability.Methods: Three hundred thirty-one Korean participants were enrolled from a prospective, 3-year longitudinal observational study of the validation cohort of Korean Brain Aging Study for the Early Diagnosis and Prediction of AD: 71 cognitively normal (CN), 99 with subjective cognitive decline (SCD), 89 with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and 72 with AD. Among these 331 participants, 139 (29, 58, 29, and 23 from each group, respectively) provided CSF and 271 underwent baseline amyloid PET. Three annual cognitive and neuropsychiatric function tests were conducted. Ab42, Ab40, total-tau and phosphorylated-tau181 were measured by Lumipulse fully automated immunoassay and two manual immunoassays (INNO-BIA AlzBio3, INNOTEST). Clinical utility of CSF biomarker cutoffs, based on 128 participants with Ab-PET, were evaluated.Results: Cognitive and neuropsychological scores differed significantly among the groups, with descending performance among CN > SCD > MCI > AD. Biomarker levels among immunoassays were strongly intercorrelated, and using the cutoffs for Ab-PET status with maximal AD diagnostic accuracy (n = 215), the levels showed excellent agreement with Ab-PET. Use of Ab-PET-based cutoffs for CSF biomarkers showed excellent diagnostic discrimination between AD and CN (Ab42, Ab42/Ab40, t-tau/Ab42 and p-tau/Ab42) with overall AUC ranges to discriminate AD and CN (0.876–0.952). During follow-up, participants with AD-like CSF signature determined by Ab-PET-based cutoffs from Lumipulse showed rapid progression of clinical scores, after adjustment for potential confounders, compared with those with a normal CSF signature.Conclusion: CSF AD biomarkers measured by different immunoassay platforms show strong intercorrelated agreement with Ab-PET. Ab-PET-based CSF biomarker cutoffs measured by immunoassays, including the Lumipulse, strongly predict progression of cognitive decline. The clinical utility of CSF biomarkers from fully automated immunoassay platforms should be evaluated in larger, more diverse cohorts.
The molecular tweezer CLR01 improves behavioral deficits and reduces tau pathology in P301S-tau transgenic mice
Authors: Di Jing , Siddique Ibrar , Li Zizheng , Malki Ghattas , Hornung Simon , Dutta Suman , Hurst Ian , Ishaaya Ella , Wang Austin , Tu Sally , Boghos Ani , Ericsson Ida , Klärner Frank-Gerrit , Schrader Thomas , Bitan Gal
Published: October 2020

Background: Molecular tweezers (MTs) are broad-spectrum inhibitors of abnormal protein aggregation. A lead MT, called CLR01, has been demonstrated to inhibit the aggregation and toxicity of multiple amyloidogenic proteins in vitro and in vivo. Previously, we evaluated the effect of CLR01 in the 3×Tg mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease, which overexpresses mutant human presenilin 1, amyloid β-protein precursor, and tau and found that subcutaneous administration of the compound for one month led to a robust reduction of amyloid plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and microgliosis. CLR01 also has been demonstrated to inhibit tau aggregation in vitro and tau seeding in cell culture, yet because in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and in the 3×Tg model, tau hyperphosphorylation and aggregation are thought to be downstream of Aβ insults, the study in this model left the question whether CLR01 affected tau in vivo directly or indirectly open.Methods: To determine if CLR01 could ameliorate tau pathology directly in vivo, we tested the compound similarly using the P301S-tau (line PS19) mouse model. Mice were administered 0.3- or 1.0-mg/Kg per day CLR01 and tested for muscle strength and behavioral deficits, including anxiety- and disinhibition-like behavior. Their brains then were analyzed by immunohistochemical and biochemical assays for pathological forms of tau, neurodegeneration, and glial pathology.Results: CLR01 treatment ameliorated muscle-strength deterioration, anxiety-, and disinhibition-like behavior. Improved phenotype was associated with decreased levels of pathologic tau forms, suggesting that CLR01 exerts a direct effect on tau in vivo. Limitations of the study included a relatively short treatment period of the mice at an age in which full pathology is not yet developed. In addition, high variability in this model lowered the statistical significance of the findings of some outcome measures.Conclusions: The findings suggest that CLR01 is a particularly attractive candidate for the treatment of AD because it targets simultaneously the two major pathogenic proteins instigating and propagating the disease, amyloid β-protein (Aβ) and tau, respectively. In addition, our study suggests that CLR01 can be used for the treatment of other tauopathies in the absence of amyloid pathology.
Application of electric spring in coal mine power supply
Authors: Zhang Xi , Zheng Zheng
Published: October 2020

With the continuous improvement of mine automation, coal mines have higher and higher requirements for the quality of power supply voltage, and voltage fluctuations have become one of the factors that threaten the safe operation of coal mines. In order to solve this problem, this article uses the electric spring (ES) in the coal mine power supply system. First, it analyzes the working principle of the electric spring. Next, aiming at the deficiencies of the resonance control strategy, a compound control strategy in which quasi-proportional resonance control (QPR) and repetitive control are parallel is proposed. The introduction of repetitive control can suppress the periodic disturbance of the power grid, effectively improve the steady-state accuracy, and reduce system harmonics. Then, the design method of repeated controller parameters is studied in detail. Finally, MATLAB/Simulink is used to build a simulation model, and dSPACE is used as the control core to build an ES experiment platform. Simulation and experimental results verify the correctness and effectiveness of the proposed control algorithm, and point out that the electric spring can ensure the voltage stability of key electrical equipment and provide a reliable guarantee for the safe production of the mine.
Design and Characterization of Canopy Air Curtain for Protecting Against Diesel Particulate Matter Exposures in Underground Mines
Authors: Noll James , Reed Randy , Potts Drew , Shahan Mike
Published: October 2020

Blasters are one of the highest exposed work groups to diesel particulate matter (DPM) in underground metal/nonmetal mining. These workers can spend a good portion of their day under a canopy in a basket loading blastholes with explosives. Therefore, one way of potentially reducing their exposures to DPM is to place a canopy air curtain (CAC) on the basket of the ANFO loader. In the original design of the CAC on a roof bolting machine and shuttle car, a fan draws in air through a filter to capture the dust and then supplies clean air beneath the canopy where a miner is working. This paper describes the testing of a CAC that was redesigned to fit an ANFO loader and prevent exposures to DPM as well as respirable dust. Laboratory measurements demonstrated reductions of submicron particles that relate to the percent reductions of DPM. The CAC provided substantial protection of mine workers to DPM (80% reductions), from within 15.24 cm (6 inches) of the edge of the CAC using a 7.62-cm (3-inch) lip. As the mine worker approaches the edges of the CAC, the percent reduction starts to reduce to the 30–50% range. The mine worker achieves the best results when within 15.24 cm (6 inches) from the edge of the CAC. In addition, the CAC should be located such that the breathing zone of the mine worker is 25.4–50.8 cm (10–20 inches) below the CAC.
Evolution of views on plant immunity: from Flor’s “gene-for-gene” theory to the “zig-zag model” developed by Jones and Dangl
Authors: Shafikova T. N. , Omelichkina Yu. V.
Published: October 2020

The study of plant defence mechanisms in response to pathogens in the mid-20th century resulted in Harold Flor’s gene-for-gene interaction hypothesis, which became recognised as central to the study of phytoimmunity. According to this theory, the outcome of interactions in plant – pathogen phytopathosystems – i.e. compatibility or incompatibility – is controlled genetically in interacting organisms and determined by the presence of specific genes in both pathogen and plant: resistance genes in the plant and avirulence genes in pathogen. The latest achievements in phytoimmunology, obtained with the help of modern molecular biology and bioinformatics methods, have made a significant contribution to the classical understanding of plant immunity and provided grounds for a modern concept of phytoimmunity consisting in the “zig-zag model” developed by Jonathan Jones and Jefferey Dangl. Plant immunity is currently understood as being determined by an innate multi-layer immune system involving various structures and mechanisms of specific and non-specific immunity. Recognition by plant membrane receptors of conservative molecular patterns associated with microorganisms, as well as molecules produced during cell wall disruption by pathogen hydrolytic enzymes forms a basic non-specific immune response in the plant. Detection of pathogen effector molecules by plant intra-cellular receptors triggers a specific effector-triggered immunity, resulting in the development of the hypersensitive response, systemic resistance and immune memory of the plant. Virulence factors and pathogen attack strategies on the one hand, and mechanisms of plant immune protection on the other, are the result of one form of constant co-evolution, often termed an “evolutionary arms race”. This paper discusses the main principles of Flor's classical “gene-for-gene interaction” theory as well as the molecular-genetic processes of plant innate immunity, their mechanisms and participants in light of contemporary achievements in phytoimmunology.
Study of hop aroma components using chemical sensors
Authors: Korostelev A. V. , Rukavitsyn P. V. , Novikova I. V. , Kuchmenko T. A. , Umarkhanov R. U. , Muravev A. S.
Published: October 2020

An array of sensors was selected taking into account the specific component composition of the essential oil contained in the hop plant. The aroma intensity of several hop varieties was investigated using high-frequency piezoelectric resonators with a high sensitivity and low detection limits for volatile components. Analytical signals of the sensor array in the vapour of the equilibrium gas phase of the samples were assembled into a multidimensional data set, presented in the form of a “visual imprint” (diagrams were plotted according to the maximum responses of the sensors in the equilibrium gas phase of the samples during a time interval of 60 s). Data for the samples with acceptable organoleptic characteristics complying with regulatory documents were taken as the standard. For the samples under study, the responses of chemical sensors in the equilibrium gas phase were presented in the form of a total signal and compared with the “visual imprint” of the maxima for the standard; the areas of indentation figures were calculated – SΣ, Gc.s.. As additional characteristics, 5 identification parameters Aij were used, calculated from the signals of individual sensors in the gas phase of the analyzed samples and selected standards. The identity between the composition of the sample under analysis and the corresponding standard was established, when the relative difference in the parameters of the "visual imprint" figures did not exceed 20%. Conversely, a sample was considered not identical to the selected standard, when the relative difference was higher than 20%. The experimental results were used to establish the identity or authenticity of hop pellet samples from different batches.
Chemical composition of spring wheat at different levels of mineral nutrition
Authors: Chikishev D. V. , Abramov N. V. , Larina N. S. , Sherstobitov S. V.
Published: October 2020

Spring wheat is widely used as a raw material for the production of human food and animal feed. This study was aimed at investigating the response of spring wheat to different levels of mineral nutrition. The article presents the results of applying mineral fertilisers when growing spring wheat of the Novosibirsk 31 variety in the Tyumen region. The following parameters were determined: wheat grain yield, grain nutritional quality (protein content, raw gluten, gluten quality, grain hardness, grain-unit value), and amino acid and elemental (N, P, K, S, Na, Mg, Ca, Cl) composition. The efficiency of mineral fertilisers was shown to depend on their dosage, as well as on soil and weather conditions. In 2018, the use of mineral fertilisers led to an increased wheat yield and an improved grain quality. Thus, in comparison with the control (no fertilisers), the wheat yield increased by 1.6 t/ha, while the protein and wet gluten content grew by 3.67% and 9.9%, respectively. The application of fertilisers allowed 3rd class wheat to be obtained, while experiments involving no fertilisers produced only 4th class wheat. It was revealed that the role of mineral fertilisers in wheat yields and their quality decreases when growing wheat on leached chernozem under favourable weather conditions. Thus, in 2019, 3rd class wheat varying in yield insignificantly was obtained in all experiments (with and without fertilisers). It was confirmed that an increase in the dose of mineral fertilisers leads to an increase in the content of glutamic and aspartic acids in the grain, at the same time as decreasing the content of arginine. The elemental composition of grain, except for nitrogen, does not depend on the dose of fertilisers.
Calculation of dependences for estimating the amount of weight loss during lyophilization of diagnostic preparations
Authors: Komissarov A. V. , Bibikov D. N. , Badarin S. A. , Sinitsyna N. V. , Kostyleva N. I. , Ovchinnikova M. V. , Korovkina G. I. , Zinina O. S. , Plotnikov I. A. , Nikiforov A. K.
Published: October 2020

In this study, we aimed to calculate dependencies for assessing the value of weight loss during lyophilization of diagnostic preparations depending on the drying temperature and time. A model solution for lyophilization was Hottinger broth with gelatin (1.5%) and peptone (10%) used as stabilizers. To achieve the aim, a full factorial experiment 23 was planned and implemented, the investigated factors in which were the temperature and time of final drying, as well as the amount of substance in the primary packaging. Using ampoules as containers for primary packaging, a regression equation was obtained. The conducted statistical processing of the obtained equation showed the feasibility of the developed mathematical model. According to the model, an increase in the drying temperature and time leads to a decrease in the amount of weight loss; however, weight loss increases under an increase in the amount of substance in the secondary packaging. As a result of the experiments, a correspondence between the experimental and calculated values of weight loss during drying was revealed. The effect of the height of the material under drying on the weight loss was studied when drying an equivalent amount of substance in vials. The developed mathematical model for drying in ampoules was modified to describe the process of lyophilization in vials. The experimental results confirmed the possibility of calculating weight loss during drying using the proposed model. The developed dependencies can be used for estimating the value of weight loss during lyophilization of various substances, which is of particular importance in terms of reducing costs when establishing the temperature and time parameters of drying new biological products and modifying production regimes when changing the amount of product, type of primary packaging or desorption conditions.
Behaviour of pancreatic lipase enzyme during recyclization when synthesizing butyl butyrate in non-aqueous media
Authors: Gamaurova V. S. , Davletshina G. A.
Published: October 2020

Aromatic substances are widely applied in the creation of fragrances for cosmetic, detergent and food products, as well as medical preparations for external use. Environmentally friendly enzymes obtained using green chemistry methods are of particular value. Therefore, the enzymatic synthesis of esters of aromatic aliphatic acids and aromatic alcohols is of great practical interest. This approach has significant advantages over chemical methods, since it is carried out at low temperatures without the formation of byproducts, thus requiring no special purification techniques. Although the cost of enzyme preparations is rather high, immobilized enzymes can be used repeatedly and continuously. In the present work, we investigate the possibility of using non-immobilized freeze-dried lipase (Lipase from porcine pancreas, Type 11) for repeated esterification of butyl alcohol with butyric acid. The synthesis was carried out in hexane. The completeness of the process was controlled by titration of the residual acid with aqueous alcoholic alkali in the reaction medium. The resulting enzyme preparation was separated from the reaction mixture and reused with a new portion of the substrate. It is shown that the obtained enzyme can be used for more than 10 cycles. It was found that, starting from the second cycle, the enzyme activity increases depending on its concentration in the medium. In addition, the butyric acid conversion increases by 6–180% reaching the initial level only after the 10th cycle. The unusual effect of increasing the enzymatic activity of lipase in recycles can be explained by both the phenomenon of autocatalysis, i.e. activation of the enzyme by water released as a result of esterification, and structural features of the active site of pancreatic lipase.
Study of the composition and properties of crude oil mined at the Ichyodinskoye field
Authors: Вelozerova O. V. , Kovalenko V. V. , Shakirova E. V.
Published: October 2020

This study was aimed at investigating the chemical composition and commercial properties of crude oil mined at the Ichyodinskoye field. A graph of atmospheric distillation was constructed. The content of commercial fractions was determined from the curve of true boiling temperatures. The obtained data were analysed according to the hydrocarbon composition of the gasoline fraction, which was found to comprise alkane, cycloalkane and aromatic compounds in the amount of 53.12%, 27.21% and 18.45%, respectively. In terms of sulphur, the oil mined at the Ichyodinskoye field is considered to be low-sulphur, thus belonging to the1st class. A distinctive feature of this oil consists in its inability to form stable emulsions due to a low content of solid paraffins in its composition. In the study, artificial emulsions of the oil and deposit water with a watercut value of 30% were obtained. The developed emulsions were investigated by analysing the process of gravitational settling for 120 min at a temperature of 50 °C, as well as using a LUMiFuge device. It was found that the oil mined at the Ichyodinskoye field is low-sulphur and light, containing a high content of light distillates. It is known that low-sulphur oils are safer for field equipment in terms of corrosion, thereby decreasing costs of supplying oil to consumers. Such oils are a high-quality and promising raw material for the production of oil products.
IFRS and stock exchange development in sub-Saharan Africa: a logistic model
Authors: B. Emudainohwo Ochuko
Published: October 2020

This study examines the impact of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) on the stock exchange development (SED) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The essence is to offer suggestions on how the adoption of IFRS in the SSA region can benefit their SED. The study employed logistic regression analysis of data for 40 SSA countries for the period 2010–2018. Data were extracted from the World Bank’s World Development Index (WDI) database, sampled countries’ stock exchange websites, and the IFRS website. The dependent variable (SED) took two values: 1 – if a stock exchange is established in the observed country’s period, otherwise – 0. The model result was well fitted: p < 0.0001, correctly classified an overall SED accuracy up to 84.84% and excellent area predictive power at a receiver operator characteristic of 0.9347. The study observed that IFRS had high degree of co-movement with SED, and changes in IFRS had a strong positive impact on SED. Besides, changes in market size, ICT infrastructure, and public sector management and institution (PSMI) had a positive and significant impact on SED. The odd ratio of SED compared to non-SED is greatest with IFRS (40.67 times), and for the other variables, the ratios are: market size (4.02), ICT infrastructure (1.26), and PSMI (2.73), respectively. On a greater extent, SSA countries should allow the use of IFRS for financial reporting to expedite SED.
Causality of external population migration intensity and regional socio-economic development of Ukraine
Authors: Mulska Olha , Levytska Olha , Panchenko Volodymyr , Kohut Maryana , Vasyltsiv Taras
Published: October 2020

The Carpathian Region (Zakarpattia, Lviv, Chernivtsi, and Ivano-Frankivsk) is inferior to other regions in Ukraine regarding its economic development, which does not contribute to migration stability and, rather, serves as a factor motivating the active part of the population to emigrate. The problem of the labor market disproportions in the Carpathian Region is one of the significant causes of the formation and subsequent implementation of migration intentions, especially in rural areas, less economically developed areas, and district centers, where labor demand is much lower. The research aims to develop an innovative approach to calculating the intensity of the population’s external migration based on the introduction of a correction coefficient, which enables to consider the scale of transit migration in the Carpathian Region. The data presented in the study were collected for the period 2005–2018. Granger causality analysis is used to assess the relationship between migration and socio-economic development of the region. The analysis reveals that in all regions of the Carpathian Region, there is a short-run causal relationship between the intensity of external migration and the share of total household expenditure on food; in the medium run, the real household income, the size of the average monthly wages, and the volume of foreign portfolio investment, the foreign economic activity and retail trade turnover in the region; in the long run, living standards and indicators of economic growth. Future studies may require a more diverse set of indicators to evaluate the causal relationship in other regions of Ukraine, which will provide the integrity of the results of Granger causality analysis.
AcknowledgmentThe research has been conducted within the framework of applied research ‘Migration Activity of the Population of the Carpathian Region’ (Dolishniy Institute of Regional Research of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Reg. No. 0119U002010, 2019–2021).
PENGARUH PERSEPSI SISWA TENTANG KETERSEDIAAN DAN PEMANFAATAN FASILITAS LABORATORIUM IPA TERHADAP MOTIVASI BELAJAR IPA-BIOLOGI SISWA KELAS VIII MTs NEGERI 1 KENDAL TAHUN AJARAN 2018/2019
Authors: Fadhilah Nila , Kusrinah Kusrinah , Rizqianti Anif
Published: October 2020

Salah satu fasilitas yang dapat mendukung proses pembelajaran IPA adalah laboratorium IPA. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk untuk mendreskripsikan pengaruh persepsi siswa tentang ketersediaan dan pemanfataan fasilitas laboratorium IPA terhadap motivasi belajar IPA-Biologi kelas VIII MTs Negeri 1 Kendal Tahun 2018/2019. Peneliti ini menggunakan pendekatan penelitian kuantitatif dengan jenis penelitian Asosiatif. Metode pengambilan sampel yang adalah Simple Random Sampling dengan jumlah resonden 30. Teknik pengumpulan data dengan metode angket. Penelitian ini menggunakan analisis data regresi linier ganda dengan uji F. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa  sebesar 1,81955321 sedangkan  taraf signifikan 5% adalah 3,28. Karena nilai  hal ini berarti Ho diterima. Artinya tidak ada pengaruh ketersediaan dan pemanfaatan fasilitas laboratorium IPA terhadap motivasi belajar IPA-Biologi. Nilai kontribusi pengaruh persepsi siswa tentang ketersediaan dan permanfaatan fasilitas laboratorium IPA terhadap motivasi belajar IPA-Biologi sebesar 11,87% Sedangkan 88,12 % ditentukan oleh faktor lain yang ada kalanya berupa faktor internal dan faktor eksternal. Faktor internal diantaranya yaitu kebutuhan belajar, harapan dan cita-cita, minat sedangkan faktor eksternalnya berupa dorongan keluarga, lingkungan, imbalan.
Kata kunci: Persepsi, ketersediaan, pemanfaatan, fasilitas, laboratorium, motivasi belajar
PENGEMBANGAN BOOKLET KEANEKARAGAMAN LEPIDOPTERA SUBORDO RHOPALOCERA DI KAWASAN CAGAR ALAM PAGERWUNUNG DARUPONO KENDAL SEBAGAI SUMBER BELAJAR BIOLOGI PADA MATERI KEANEKARAGAMAN HAYATI DI MA NU 03 SUNAN KATONG KALIWUNGU KENDAL
Authors: Nafsiyah Fitrotun
Published: October 2020

Sumber belajar Biologi khususnya materi keanekaragaman hayati di MA NU 03 Sunan Katong Kaliwungu Kendal masih terbatas sehingga berpengaruh pada pemahaman peserta didik terhadap materi keanekaragaman hayati. Sekolah ini memiliki jarak yang dekat dengan kawasan Cagar Alam Pagerwunung Darupono Kendal yang memiliki potensi keanekaragaman jenis Lepidoptera (Rhopalocera:Kupu-kupu), akan tetapi belum dimanfaatkan sebagai sumber belajar. Tujuan penelitian ini yaitu menjelaskan jenis Lepidoptera Subordo Rhopalocera yang ada di kawasan Cagar Alam Pagerwunung Darupono Kendal dan menjelaskan kelayakan booklet tentang Keanekaragaman Rhopalocera di kawasan Cagar Alam Pagerwunung sebagai sumber belajar Biologi kelas X MA NU 03 Sunan Katong Kaliwungu Kendal. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah Research and Development (R&D) dengan model 10 Langkah Borg & Gall, namun dimodifikasi hanya sampai tahap uji coba produk skala kecil. Subjek dari penelitian ini adalah peserta didik kelas X MIPA 1 dan X MIPA 2 MA NU 03 Sunan Katong yang berjumlah 18 siswa. Jenis hewan Rhopalocera yang ditemukan di kawasan Cagar Alam Pagerwunung berjumlah 29 spesies yang terbagi atas 4 famili yaitu Nymphalidae berjumlah 15 spesies, Papilionidae 6 spesies, Pieridae 6 spesies, dan Lycaenidae 2 spesies. Uji kelayakan oleh ahli materi termasuk dalam ketegori sangat layak dengan persentase rata-rata yaitu sebesar 92%, penilaian dari ahli media termasuk dalam kategori layak dengan persentase rata-rata sebesar 74,54%, penilaian oleh guru biologi persentase rata-rata yaitu sebanyak 91,30%, serta penilaian dari peserta didik memperoleh persentase rata-rata sebanyak 84,6% yang menunjukkan kategori sangat layak. Berdasarkan persentase tersebut, booklet dapat dikatakan sangat layak digunakan sebagai sumber belajar.
PENGEMBANGAN MEDIA PEMBELAJARAN ULAR TANGGA BERCERITA BERBASIS PENDIDIKAN KARAKTER UNTUK MENINGKATKAN KEMAMPUAN BERPIKIR KRITIS SISWA KELAS X PADA MATERI EKOSISTEM DI MA HIDAYATUL MUBTADI’IN
Authors: Solekhah Inayatus
Published: October 2020

Proses pembelajaran biologi diharapankan mampu memenuhi peraturan pemerintah yang tertuang dalam “Standar Nasional Pendidikan” (SNP) serta mampu mencapai “Standar Kompetensi Lulusan” (SKL). Cara yang dapat dilakukan dalam menciptakan proses pembelajaran sesuai peraturan yang berlaku adalah menggunakan media ular tangga bercerita materi ekosistem yang diharaoakn mampu meningkatkan kemamouan berpikir kritis dan pendidikan karakter. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui karakterisik, tingkat kelayakan, dan efektivitas dari media yang dikembangkan. Model pengembangan yang digunakan adalah ADDIE. Teknik pengumpulan data melalui observasi, wawancara tidak terstruktrur, angket, dan tes soal uraian kemampun berpikir kritis. Sampel ujicoba produk skala besar produk ini diujikan secara kuasi eksperimen yakni pada kelas X MIA 1 (eksperimen) dan  X MIA 2 (kontrol). Spesifikasi media yang dikembangkan diantaranya: papan ular tangga bercerita, kartu soal, kartu kunci, petunjuk permainan, buku pegangan, dan kotak penyimpanan. Media dilengkapi penanaman nilai karakter serta pertanyaan yang memicu kemampuan berpikir kritis. Hasil kelayakan produk dari ahli materi, ahli media, dan praktisi menunjukkan produk tergolong dalam kategori sangat layak digunakan. Hasil respon siswa juga menunjukkan bahwa media termasuk kategori sangat menarik. Keefektivan media pembelajaran ular tangga bercerita berbasis pendidikan karakter diperoleh rata-rata kelas ekperimen 74.2 sedangkan rata-rata kelas kontrol 66.07 dengan nilai thitung= 3.891 dan ttabel=2.0154, sehingga thitung > ttabel dan Ha diterima dan Ho di tolak, disimpulkan terdapat perbedaan hasil post-test kelas ekperimen dengan kelas kontrol. Uji N-gain didapatkan nilai rata-rata kelas kontrol 35.32 yang berarti sedang dan nilai rata-rata kelas eksperimen 43.48 yang berarti sedang, sehingga disimpulkan bahwa penggunaan media ular tangga bercerita berbasis pendidikan karakter terbukti efektif untuk meningkatkan kemampuan berpikir kritis siswa kelas X pada materi ekosistem MA Hidayatul Mubtadi’in
MODEL GROUP INVESTIGATION UNTUK MENGEMBANGKAN MINAT BELAJAR SISWA SMP
Authors: Anggis Eka Vasia
Published: October 2020

Group Investigation tergolong metode kooperatif yang dapat mengembangkan minat belajar melalui pengalaman belajar secara langsung. Berdasarkan observasi pada siswa Sekolah Menegah Pertama (SMP) di Indramayu terdapat kurang adanya kerjasama kelompok, kurang mengajukan pertanyaan dan kurang memiliki ide atau solusi. Tujuan penelitian adalah untuk menumbuhkan minat belajar. Metode penelitian kualitatif deskriptif. Indikator minat belajar yaitu perasaan senang, ketertarikaan, dan keterlibatan. Instrumen penelitian digunakan kuisioner. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan keterlibatan dengan persentase yang lebih besar. Kesimpulan penelitian adalah minat belajar dapat dikembangkan melalui model Group Investigation
Climate change impacts on the water and groundwater resources of the Lake Tana Basin, Ethiopia
Authors: Tigabu Tibebe B. , Wagner Paul D. , Hörmann Georg , Kiesel Jens , Fohrer Nicola
Published: October 2020

Climate change impacts on the water cycle can severely affect regions that rely on groundwater to meet their water demands in the mid- to long-term. In the Lake Tana basin, Ethiopia, discharge regimes are dominated by groundwater. We assess the impacts of climate change on the groundwater contribution to streamflow (GWQ) and other major water balance components in two tributary catchments of Lake Tana. Based on an ensemble of 35 bias-corrected regional climate models and a hydrologic catchment model, likely changes under two representative concentration pathways (RCP4.5 and 8.5) are assessed. No or only slight changes in rainfall depth are expected, but the number of rainy days is expected to decrease. Compared to the baseline average, GWQ is projected to decrease whereas surface runoff is projected to increase. Hence, rainfall trends alone are not revealing future water availability and may even be misleading, if regions rely heavily on groundwater.
Biosurfactants as a Novel Additive in Pharmaceutical Formulations: Current Trends and Future Implications
Authors: Thakur Shubham , Singh Amrinder , Sharma Ritika , Aurora Rohan , Jain Subheet Kumar
Published: October 2020

Background:

Surfactants are an important category of additives that are used widely in most of the
formulations as solubilizers, stabilizers, and emulsifiers. Current drug delivery systems comprise of numerous
synthetic surfactants (such as Cremophor EL, polysorbate 80, Transcutol-P), which are associated with several
side effects though used in many formulations. Therefore, to attenuate the problems associated with conventional
surfactants, a new generation of surface-active agents is obtained from the metabolites of fungi, yeast, and
bacteria, which are termed as biosurfactants.

Objectives:

In this article, we critically analyze the different types of biosurfactants, their origin along with
their chemical and physical properties, advantages, drawbacks, regulatory status, and detailed pharmaceutical
applications.

Methods:

243 papers were reviewed and included in this review.

Results:

Briefly, Biosurfactants are classified as glycolipids, rhamnolipids, sophorolipids, trehalolipids, surfactin,
lipopeptides & lipoproteins, lichenysin, fatty acids, phospholipids, and polymeric biosurfactants. These
are amphiphilic biomolecules with lipophilic and hydrophilic ends and are used as drug delivery vehicles (foaming,
solubilizer, detergent, and emulsifier) in the pharmaceutical industry. Despite additives, they have some biological
activity as well (anti-cancer, anti-viral, anti-microbial, P-gp inhibition, etc.). These biomolecules possess
better safety profiles and are biocompatible, biodegradable, and specific at different temperatures.

Conclusion:

Biosurfactants exhibit good biomedicine and additive properties that can be used in developing
novel drug delivery systems. However, more research should be driven due to the lack of comprehensive toxicity
testing and high production cost which limits their use.
GRβ Regulates Glucocorticoid Resistance in Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Authors: Chen Xubo , Zhang Qi , Yang Chunping , Liu Yuehui , Li Lihua
Published: October 2020

Background:

In recent years, the incidence of sudden deafness has gradually increased,
with a very limited understanding of its etiology and pathogenesis. Glucocorticoids are the first choice
of the treatment, but some hormone-resistant patients are not sensitive to glucocorticoid therapy. The
pathogenesis is not yet known. In this study, we aim to construct the HEI-OC1 cell line stably overexpressing
Glucocorticoid Receptor Beta (GRβ), and identify its exact role in the cases of glucocorticoidresistant
sudden deafness.

Methods:

We used the endotoxin lipopolysaccharide-stimulated cochlear hair cells (HEI-OC1) to investigate
the relationship of inflammation factor IL-2, TNF alpha, and SRp30c with the high expression
GRβ. We built a stable GRβ high expression HEI-OC1 cell line and clarified its effects on the
therapeutic effect of dexamethasone. MTT assay, colony formation assay, CCK-8 assay, Western blot,
and RT-qPCR were utilized for characterizations.

Results:

Dexamethasone reduced the LPS-induced inflammatory response from HEI-OC1 cells (p<0.05),
detected by MTT assay. Dexamethasone could protect HEI-OC1 cells, but its protective effect was weakened
due to the transfection of SRp30c over-expression plasmid (p<0.05). The transfection of SRp30c
over-expression plasmid in HEI-OC1 cells could elevate the expressions of GRβ (p<0.05).

Conclusion:

: We clarified the mechanisms of high expression of GRβ in glucocorticoid-resistant sudden
sensorineural hearing loss, and proved that the inhibition of SRp30c may act as a new treatment
way of glucocorticoid-resistant sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
Evaluation and Comparative Correlation of Abdominal Fat Related Parameters in Obese and Non-obese Groups Using Computed Tomography
Authors: Raghu Teja Kompalli J. Satya Siva , Durgaprasad Bhamidipaty Kanaka , Vijayalakshmi Payala
Published: October 2020

Background:

Obesity is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular (CV) disease. Abdominal
fat is composed of abdominal subcutaneous fat and intra-abdominal (visceral) fat. Computed
tomography (CT) is considered one of the most accurate and reliable methods for assessing abdominal
fat.

Introduction:

The present study was based on evaluating abdominal fat by computed tomography
and the determination of association between CT obtained abdominal fat volumes, anthropometric
indices, and lipid profile.

Methods:

The prospective study was carried out on 120 subjects referred to the Radiology department
for a CT scan. Non - contrast CT scan was performed with 5 mm slice thickness. Abdominal
fat volumes were recorded by using CT attenuation values (- 250 to -50 HU). The section was selected
at the level of the umbilicus (L4-L5). Intra-abdominal fat and subcutaneous fat volumes
were calculated. Body Mass Index (BMI) and lipid profile were recorded for each subject. A comparative
study of the CT values, BMI, and lipid profile was undertaken.

Results:

In the present study, by comparing the anthropometric parameters, CT findings, and lipid
profile and blood parameters of the obese and non-obese groups by sex revealed significant sex differences
in all the parameters under study. It was also found that the obese male and female groups
showed a high prevalence of diabetes, Non-Alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and hypertension
than non-obese groups. This finding also adds to the chances of getting cardiovascular diseases,
specifically in obese individuals. The results found that in obese males and females the abdominal
fat-related parameters Visceral fatty acid (VFA) and subcutaneous fatty acid (SFA) showed
highly significant relation to anthropometric parameters like BMI, waist circumference (WC) and
waist/hip (W/H) ratio on the other hand blood parameters high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density
lipoprotein (LDL), very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), total cholesterol and triglycerides to
some extent have a significant relation to abdominal fat-related parameters. In non-obese groups,
by studying the influence of anthropometric parameters on abdominal fat-related parameters, it was
revealed that WC was strongly affected by the VFA in both sexes. In obese females, more fat was
accumulated in the VFA and SFA and for obese males in SFA and for non-obese males in total fatty
acid (TFA).

Conclusion:

Computed tomography assessed visceral fat area remains the most sensitive independent
predictor of cardiovascular risk.
An Overview of FDA Regulatory Requirements for Vascular Devices
Authors: Targhotra Monika , Aggarwal Rohan , Chauhan Meenakshi K.
Published: October 2020

Background:

Like the latest medications, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) endorsement procedure is expected to give assurance that, when it arrives at the commercial center, a clinical device is efficacious and safe in its planned use.

Objective:

The objective of the particular review is to give an outline of the FDAs’ survey method for clinical vascular devices. This audit principally focuses on the high-risk based or type-III class clinical devices that are used the most for the purpose of analyses.

Methods:

The clinical device guideline is achieved by the CDRH. Exacting adjustment to the wanted standards is required to get promoting approval. 510 (k), PMA, and HDE are the administrative pathways for acquiring promoting approval by the FDA. The decision of the administrative pathway received by organizations relies basically on the multifaceted nature of the structure, a potential hazard to the strength of the client, and safety.

Results:

Clinical devices are fundamentally imperative to vascular care, and doctors who utilize clinical gadgets ought to be increasingly mindful about the administrative procedures supporting their accessibility. The FDA audits high-risk based devices for safety and adequacy.

Conclusion:

The rationale for this analysis is to talk about the current FDA arrangements identified with the endorsement of medical devices alongside the ramifications of these approaches for clinical consideration, especially with regards to vascular care.
Key Factors for Shortening Response Time in the Strategic Issues Diagnosis Process
Authors: Potter Jodi A. , Minutolo Marcel C. , Lipinski John
Published: October 2020

Strategic Issue Diagnosis research focused on the complexity of decision making in a turbulent environment; the cognitive processes associated with interpretation; and, political issues embedded in strategic decision making. However, speed has been ignored. Information gathering and sense making of data through competitive intelligence processes affects the speed associated with interpretation, analysis, and decision making. Through a questionnaire administered in the Pittsburgh region, we identified within organizational factors that assist in counteracting the recursiveness and redundancy inherent in the process hastening strategic decision making. Analysis based on Partial Least Squares regression techniques with bootstrapping enabled generalization of previous research includes the role of speed.
Commercial Policy under Ulèëbalangs: A Factor Contributing to Cumbôk War
Authors: Rizki Syukri , Latif Ikhwan Rahmatika
Published: October 2020

Adat chiefs in Aceh – locally termed as ulèëbalang – served as one of the three most compelling socio-political forces besides the sultan and ulamas. As regional rulers in the Aceh Kingdom, they were appointed as leaders through the approval of the Sultan of Aceh. The ulèëbalangs would possess leadership with the reinforcement of a Sarakata letter affixed with a “Cap Sikureueng” (Kingdom of Aceh’s Seal). Not only did ulèëbalangs serve as the ruler in terms of Executive administration, but also controlled almost all life sectors of the Acehnese people like trade, court, agriculture and plantation, which the Sultan hardly ever touched. With this legitimate power, the ulèëbalangs were rightful to issue commercial policies in their regional territories. In exercising their power, they often acted recklessly towards their subjects. The objective of this study was to identify whether the commercial policy imposed by the ulèëbalangs was one of the factors contributing to the happening of the Cumbôk war in 1945. This study mainly focused on ulèëbalangs who ruled in the Pidie area by studying secondary data available online and offline. The findings of this study confirmed that it was evident that the ulèëbalangs’ malfeasance in controlling commerce, among other things, did contribute to the tension arising between ulamas and ulèëbalangs, which eventually broke out as the Cumbôk war.
Åčçëñtß
Authors: Carey Richy
Published: October 2020

In 2018 I was appointed to the position of Glasgow’s first UNESCO City of Music artist-in-residence. Over the course of a year I worked with numerous community groups and choirs across the city to collaboratively devise and realise a new choral/film work, titled Åčçëñtß, which was performed by an audience of over three hundred and fifty people at its premiere at the Glasgow Royal Concert Halls in 2019. Åčçëñtß explores accents as a sonorous social matter – staccatos and lilts, patterns of difference in our voices, as sonic markers of place and community – sounds that I have come to understand as resonating between our individual and collective identities. This paper presents some of the thoery orientating my compositional praxis, speaking nearby a reflective account of some of the compositional considerations and processes undertaken through the project. Through it I explore Karen Barad’s methodology of diffractive thought, Trinh T. Minh-ha’s notion of speaking nearby within the interval, Pauline Oliveros’ practice of Deep Listening, thinking towards how these might meet through my praxis to come close to Timothy Corrigan’s Refractive Cinema. Åčçëñtß speaks to the complexity of authorship and agency in distributed, collaborative composition and the motive relationships between sound and image, spectacle and spectator – between the individual and the communal.
México: hacia un mejor horizonte pensionario
Authors: Leal Fernández Gustavo
Published: October 2020

En este trabajo se revisan algunas aristas del diseño y la implementación de las reformas pensionarias en México. A través de su contenido, propone una revisión integral del Sistema de Ahorro para el Retiro (SAR) edificado a partir de los poco prometedores resultados de la reforma al Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS) en el año 1995, durante la administración gubernamental de Ernesto Zedillo; y su posterior extensión en 2007 al Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado (ISSSTE)