bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low-cost commercial borosilicate glass slides for passive radiation dosimetry
Authors: Abdul Sani S. F. , Othman M. H. U. , Alqahtani Amal , Almugren K. S. , Alkallas F. H. , Bradley D. A.
Published: December 2020

For x- and gamma- irradiations delivering entrance doses from 2- up to 1000 Gy to commercial 1.0 mm thick borosilicate glass microscope slides, study has been made of their thermoluminescence yield. With an effective atomic number of 10.6 (approximating bone equivalence), photon energy dependency is apparent in the low x-ray energy range, with interplay between the photoelectric effect and attenuation. As an example, over the examined dose range, at 120 kVp the photon sensitivity has been found to be some 5× that of 60Co gamma irradiations, also with repeatability to within ~1%. The glow-curves, taking the form of a single prominent broad peak, have been deconvolved yielding at best fit a total of five peaks, the associated activation energies and frequency factors also being obtained. The results indicate borosilicate glass slides to offer promising performance as a low-cost passive radiation dosimeter, with utility for both radiotherapy and industrial applications.
OpenStats: A robust and scalable software package for reproducible analysis of high-throughput phenotypic data
Authors: Haselimashhadi Hamed , Mason Jeremy C. , Mallon Ann-Marie , Smedley Damian , Meehan Terrence F. , Parkinson Helen
Published: December 2020

Reproducibility in the statistical analyses of data from high-throughput phenotyping screens requires a robust and reliable analysis foundation that allows modelling of different possible statistical scenarios. Regular challenges are scalability and extensibility of the analysis software. In this manuscript, we describe OpenStats, a freely available software package that addresses these challenges. We show the performance of the software in a high-throughput phenomic pipeline in the International Mouse Phenotyping Consortium (IMPC) and compare the agreement of the results with the most similar implementation in the literature. OpenStats has significant improvements in speed and scalability compared to existing software packages including a 13-fold improvement in computational time to the current production analysis pipeline in the IMPC. Reduced complexity also promotes FAIR data analysis by providing transparency and benefiting other groups in reproducing and re-usability of the statistical methods and results. OpenStats is freely available under a Creative Commons license at www.bioconductor.org/packages/OpenStats.
Ordering sequential competitions to reduce order relevance: Soccer penalty shootouts
Authors: Rudi Nils , Olivares Marcelo , Shetty Aditya
Published: December 2020

In sequential competitions, the order in which teams take turns may have an impact on performance and the outcome. Previous studies with penalty shootouts have shown mixed evidence of a possible advantage for the first shooting team. This has led to some debate on whether a change in the rules of the game is needed. This work contributes to the debate by collecting an extensive dataset of shootouts which corroborates an advantage for the first shooter, albeit with a smaller effect than what has been documented in previous research. To evaluate the impact of alternative ordering of shots, we model shootouts as a probability network, calibrate it using the data from the traditional ordering, and use the model to conduct counterfactual analysis. Our results show that alternating the team that shoots first in each round would reduce the impact of ordering. These results were in part developed as supplement to field studies to support the International Football Association Board’s (IFAB) consideration of changing the shooting order.
Characterization of ecotin homologs from Campylobacter rectus and Campylobacter showae
Authors: Thomas Cody , Nothaft Harald , Yadav Ruchi , Fodor Christopher , Alemka Abofu , Oni Oluwadamilola , Bell Michael , Rada Balázs , Szymanski Christine M.
Published: December 2020

Ecotin, first described inEscherichia coli, is a potent inhibitor of a broad range of serine proteases including those typically released by the innate immune system such as neutrophil elastase (NE). Here we describe the identification of ecotin orthologs in variousCampylobacterspecies, includingCampylobacter rectusandCampylobacter showaeresiding in the oral cavity and implicated in the development and progression of periodontal disease in humans. To investigate the function of these ecotinsin vitro, the orthologs fromC.rectusandC.showaewere recombinantly expressed and purified fromE.coli. Using CmeA degradation/protection assays, fluorescence resonance energy transfer and NE activity assays, we found that ecotins fromC.rectusandC.showaeinhibit NE, factor Xa and trypsin, but not theCampylobacter jejuniserine protease HtrA or its ortholog inE.coli, DegP. To further evaluate ecotin functionin vivo, anE.coliecotin-deficient mutant was complemented with theC.rectusandC.showaehomologs. Using a neutrophil killing assay, we demonstrate that the low survival rate of theE.coliecotin-deficient mutant can be rescued upon expression of ecotins fromC.rectusandC.showae. In addition, theC.rectusandC.showaeecotins partially compensate for loss of N-glycosylation and increased protease susceptibility in the related pathogen,Campylobacter jejuni, thus implicating a similar role for these proteins in the native host to cope with the protease-rich environment of the oral cavity.
Acceleration of opportunistic atrial fibrillation screening for elderly patients in routine primary care
Authors: Suzuki Akifumi , Okamura Tomonori , Sasaki Masahiro , Matsuoka Hitoshi , Ikeda Yoshinobu , Takahashi Akira , Akiyama Sayako , Ono Fumiko , Yoshihara Nariaki ,   The Akita Study group
Published: December 2020

Cardio-embolic ischemic stroke caused by atrial fibrillation is more severe compared with other types of stroke, such as lacunar infarction and atherothrombotic infarction in patients without atrial fibrillation. Therefore, it is important to prevent cardio-embolic ischemic stroke by detecting atrial fibrillation early in at-risk patients and administering appropriate anticoagulation therapy. This prospective observational study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of opportunistic atrial fibrillation screening at 12 primary clinics in Japan. The study included a 12-month pre-campaign period and a 12-month campaign period. During the campaign period, an awareness campaign was conducted to encourage physicians to be mindful of screening patients aged ≥65 years for atrial fibrillation by checking their pulses and performing subsequent electrocardiography when an irregular pulse was detected. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with newly diagnosed atrial fibrillation. A sub-analysis focusing on first-time outpatients was performed. There were 9921 and 10,282 patients with no history of atrial fibrillation in the pre-campaign and campaign periods, respectively. In the whole population, the proportion of patients with newly diagnosed atrial fibrillation was 0.9% throughout the pre-campaign and campaign periods. In the sub-analysis limited to first-time outpatients, the detection proportion increased from 1.6% to 1.9% during the campaign period. In terms of age stratification, a large increase in detection was observed, especially among patients aged 65–74 years (detection increased from 0.9% to 1.5%) and ≥85 years (detection increased from 2.9% to 3.3%) during the campaign period. Our findings suggest the feasibility of opportunistic atrial fibrillation screening in routine primary care practice in Japan. Of note, our findings suggest that opportunistic atrial fibrillation screening targeting first-time outpatients may be of clinical value.
Time to recovery and its predictors among adults hospitalized with COVID-19: A prospective cohort study in Ethiopia
Authors: Abrahim Saro Abdella , Tessema Masresha , Defar Atkure , Hussen Alemayehu , Ejeta Eshetu , Demoz Getachew , Tereda Addisu Birhanu , Dillnessa Enatenesh , Feleke Altaye , Amare Misiker , Nigatu Frehiwot , Fufa Yaregal , Refera Hailu , Aklilu Ayalew , Kassa Munir , Kifle Tsigereda , Whiting Susan , Tollera Getachew , Abate Ebba
Published: December 2020

Background

Various factors may determine the duration of viral shedding (the time from infection to viral RNA-negative conversion or recovery) in COVID-19 patients. Understanding the average duration of recovery and its predictors is crucial in formulating preventive measures and optimizing treatment options. Therefore, evidence showing the duration of recovery from COVID-19 in different contexts and settings is necessary for tailoring appropriate treatment and prevention measures. This study aimed to investigate the average duration and the predictors of recovery from Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection among COVID-19 patients.

Method

A hospital-based prospective cohort study was conducted at Eka Kotebe General Hospital, COVID-19 Isolation and Treatment Center from March 18 to June 27, 2020. The Center was the first hospital designated to manage COVID-19 cases in Ethiopia. The study participants were all COVID-19 adult patients who were admitted to the center during the study period. Follow up was done for the participants from the first date of diagnosis to the date of recovery (negative Real-time Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (rRT-PCT) test of throat swab).

Result

A total of 306 COVID-19 cases were followed up to observe the duration of viral clearance by rRT-PCR. Participants’ mean age was 34 years (18–84 years) and 69% were male. The median duration of viral clearance from each participant’s body was 19 days, but the range was wide: 2 to 71 days. Cough followed by headache was the leading sign of illness among the 67 symptomatic COVID-19 patients; and nearly half of those with comorbidities were known cancer and HIV/AIDS patients on clinical follow up. The median duration of recovery from COVID-19 was different for those with and without previous medical conditions or comorbidities. The rate of recovery from SARS-CoV-2 infection was 36% higher in males than in females (p = 0.043, CI: 1.01, 1.85). The rate of recovery was 93% higher in those with at least one comorbidity than in those without any comorbidity. The risk of delayed recovery was not influenced by blood type, BMI and presence of signs or symptoms. The findings showed that study participants without comorbidities recovered more quickly than those with at least one comorbidity. Therefore, isolation and treatment centers should be prepared to manage the delayed stay of patients having comorbidity.
Microbiological profile of diabetic foot ulcers in Kuwait
Authors: Alhubail Asma , Sewify May , Messenger Grace , Masoetsa Richard , Hussain Imtiaz , Nair Shinu , Tiss Ali
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) and infection (DFI) are a major diabetes-related problem around the world due to the high prevalence of diabetes in the population. The aim of our study was to determine the microbiological profile of infected ulcers in patients attending Dasman Diabetes Institute (DDI) clinics in Kuwait and to analyze the distribution of microbial isolates according to wound grade, sex, age and diabetes control.

Methods

We collected and analyzed clinical data and samples from 513 diabetic patients with foot ulcers referred to our podiatry clinic at DDI from Jan 2011 till Dec 2017.

Results

We show a higher prevalence of DFU in men than in women, and a greater percentage of DFU occurred in men at an earlier age (p<0.05). Only about half of the DFU were clinically infected (49.3%) but 92% of DFU showed bacterial growth in the microbiological lab analysis. In addition, we isolated more monomicrobial (57.3%) than polymicrobial (34.8%) DFI and representing an average of 1.30 pathogens per patient. The presence of Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains was comparable between men and women regardless their age or glucose levels. Interestingly, more Gram-positive strains are present in ulcers without ischemia while more Gram-negative strains are present in ulcers with ischemia (p<0.05). While Staphylococcus aureus was common in infected ulcers without ischemia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa was predominant in ulcers with infection and ischemia, regardless of ulcer depth. Finally, a higher percentage of women has controlled HbA1c levels (19.41% versus 11.95% in men) and more women in this group displayed non-infected wounds (60.6% and 43.90% for women and men, respectively).

Conclusion

Our results provide an updated picture of the DFI patterns and antibiotics resistance in patients attending Dasman Diabetes Institute (DDI) clinics in Kuwait which might help in adopting the appropriate treatment of infected foot and improving clinical outcomes.
Improving the quality of childbirth services in Zambia through introduction of the Safe Childbirth Checklist and systems-focused mentorship
Authors: Mudhune Sandra , Phiri Sydney Chauwa , Prescott Marta R. , McCarthy Elizabeth A. , Banda Aaron , Haimbe Prudence , Mwansa Francis Dien , Mwiche Angel , Silumesii Andrew , Micheck Kabamba , Shakwelele Hilda , Prust Margaret L.
Published: December 2020

Although strong evidence exists about the effectiveness of basic childbirth services in reducing maternal and newborn mortality, these services are not provided in every childbirth, even those at health facilities. The WHO Safe Childbirth Checklist (SCC) was developed as a job aide to remind health workers of evidenced-based practices to be provided at specific points in the childbirth process. The Zambian government requested context-specific evidence on the feasibility and outcomes associated with introducing the checklist and related mentorship. A study was conducted on use of the SCC in four facilities in Nchelenge District of Zambia. Observations of childbirth services were conducted just before and six months after the introduction of the intervention. Observers used a structured tool to record adherence to essential services indicated on the checklist. The primary outcome of interest was the change in the average proportion of essential childbirth practices completed. Feedback questionnaires were administered to health workers before and six months after the intervention. At baseline and endline, 108 and 148 pause points were observed, respectively. There was an increase from 57% to 76% of tasks performed (p = 0.04). Considering only these cases where necessary supplies were available, health workers completed 60% of associated tasks at baseline compared to 84% at endline (p<0.01). Some tasks, such as taking an infant’s temperature and hand washing, were never or rarely performed at baseline. Feedback from the health workers indicated that nearly all health workers agreed or strongly agreed with positive statements about the intervention. The performance of health workers in Zambia in completing essential practices in childbirth was low at baseline but improvements were observed with the introduction of the SCC and mentorship. Our results suggest that such interventions could improve quality of care for facility-based childbirth. However, national-level commitment to ensuring availability of trained staff and supplies is essential for success.

Trial registration Clinical Trials.gov (NCT03263182) Registered August 28, 2017

This study adheres to CONSORT guidelines.
Putting cumulative (dis)advantages in context: Comparing the role of educational inequality in later-life functional health trajectories in England and Germany
Authors: Wetzel Martin , Vanhoutte Bram
Published: December 2020

Background

The cumulative (dis)advantage (CAD) perspective more and more is examined in a comparative way, to highlight the role of context in generating inequality over the life course. This study adds to this field of research by examining trajectories of activities of daily living (ADL) in later life by educational level in a country comparison of England and Germany, emphasizing differing institutional conditions.

Method

Data used are the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA; 11,352 individuals) and the German subsample of the Survey of Health and Retirement in Europe (SHARE; 5,573 individuals). Using population averaged Poisson panel regression models, 12-year trajectories of six birth cohorts are investigated, covering the age range of 50 to 90 years.

Results

Respondents in England have a higher level of limitations at age 50, and more limited increases over age than in Germany. An educational gradient exists in both countries at age 50. Notably, the educational gradient increases for more recently born cohorts, but declines with increasing age in England, while in Germany educational differences increase for more recently born cohort only.

Discussion

The current study indicates that CAD processes between educational groups are context sensitive. While England showed convergence of disparities with increasing age, in Germany no differential development was found.
Pain(less) cleansing: Watching other people in pain reduces guilt and sadness but not shame
Authors: Bocian Konrad , Baryla Wieslaw
Published: December 2020

Past research has shown that pain experience reduces feelings of guilt for earlier wrongdoings. In this paper, we aim to investigate whether watching other people in pain can reduce feelings of guilt. In Study 1 (N= 60), we found that participants’ levels of guilt and sadness decreased after they watched a one-minute movie clip showing a painful medical procedure. Study 2 (N= 156), eliminated an alternative explanation in which pain observation but not the misattribution of unrelated excitation reduced guilt. Finally, in Study 3 (N= 60), pain observation lowered participants’ feelings of guilt but not their feelings of shame. Overall, these results suggest that the guilt-reducing effect of pain may appear even without the actual experience of physical pain.
Lipid flip-flop and desorption from supported lipid bilayers is independent of curvature
Authors: Jing Haoyuan , Wang Yanbin , Desai Parth Rakesh , Ramamurthi Kumaran S. , Das Siddhartha
Published: December 2020

Flip-flop of lipids of the lipid bilayer (LBL) constituting the plasma membrane (PM) plays a crucial role in a myriad of events ranging from cellular signaling and regulation of cell shapes to cell homeostasis, membrane asymmetry, phagocytosis, and cell apoptosis. While extensive research has been conducted to probe the lipid flip flop of planar lipid bilayers (LBLs), less is known regarding lipid flip-flop for highly curved, nanoscopic LBL systems despite the vast importance of membrane curvature in defining the morphology of cells and organelles and in maintaining a variety of cellular functions, enabling trafficking, and recruiting and localizing shape-responsive proteins. In this paper, we conduct molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to study the energetics, structure, and configuration of a lipid molecule undergoing flip-flop and desorption in a highly curved LBL, represented as a nanoparticle-supported lipid bilayer (NPSLBL) system. We compare our findings against those of a planar substrate supported lipid bilayer (PSSLBL). Our MD simulation results reveal that despite the vast differences in the curvature and other curvature-dictated properties (e.g., lipid packing fraction, difference in the number of lipids between inner and outer leaflets, etc.) between the NPSLBL and the PSSLBL, the energetics of lipid flip-flop and lipid desorption as well as the configuration of the lipid molecule undergoing lipid flip-flop are very similar for the NPSLBL and the PSSLBL. In other words, our results establish that the curvature of the LBL plays an insignificant role in lipid flip-flop and desorption.
Genome-wide linkage analysis of families with primary hyperhidrosis
Authors: Schote Andrea B. , Schiel Florian , Schmitt Benedikt , Winnikes Ulrike , Frank Nicole , Gross Katharina , Croyé Marie-Anne , Tarragon Ernesto , Bekhit Adam , Bobbili Dheeraj Reddy , May Patrick , Schick Christoph , Meyer Jobst
Published: December 2020

Primary focal hyperhidrosis (PFH, OMIM %144110) is a genetically influenced condition characterised by excessive sweating. Prevalence varies between 1.0–6.1% in the general population, dependent on ethnicity. The aetiology of PFH remains unclear but an autosomal dominant mode of inheritance, incomplete penetrance and variable phenotypes have been reported. In our study, nine pedigrees (50 affected, 53 non-affected individuals) were included. Clinical characterisation was performed at the German Hyperhidrosis Centre, Munich, by using physiological and psychological questionnaires. Genome-wide parametric linkage analysis with GeneHunter was performed based on the Illumina genome-wide SNP arrays. Haplotypes were constructed using easyLINKAGE and visualised via HaploPainter. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) with 100x coverage in 31 selected members (24 affected, 7 non-affected) from our pedigrees was achieved by next generation sequencing. We identified four genome-wide significant loci, 1q41-1q42.3, 2p14-2p13.3, 2q21.2-2q23.3 and 15q26.3-15q26.3 for PFH. Three pedigrees map to a shared locus at 2q21.2-2q23.3, with a genome-wide significant LOD score of 3.45. The chromosomal region identified here overlaps with a locus at chromosome 2q22.1-2q31.1 reported previously. Three families support 1q41-1q42.3 (LOD = 3.69), two families share a region identical by descent at 2p14-2p13.3 (LOD = 3.15) and another two families at 15q26.3 (LOD = 3.01). Thus, our results point to considerable genetic heterogeneity. WES did not reveal any causative variants, suggesting that variants or mutations located outside the coding regions might be involved in the molecular pathogenesis of PFH. We suggest a strategy based on whole-genome or targeted next generation sequencing to identify causative genes or variants for PFH.
metaVaR: Introducing metavariant species models for reference-free metagenomic-based population genomics
Authors: Laso-Jadart Romuald , Ambroise Christophe , Peterlongo Pierre , Madoui Mohammed-Amin
Published: December 2020

The availability of large metagenomic data offers great opportunities for the population genomic analysis of uncultured organisms, which represent a large part of the unexplored biosphere and play a key ecological role. However, the majority of these organisms lack a reference genome or transcriptome, which constitutes a technical obstacle for classical population genomic analyses. We introduce the metavariant species (MVS) model, in which a species is represented only by intra-species nucleotide polymorphism. We designed a method combining reference-free variant calling, multiple density-based clustering and maximum-weighted independent set algorithms to cluster intra-species variants into MVSs directly from multisample metagenomic raw reads without a reference genome or read assembly. The frequencies of the MVS variants are then used to compute population genomic statistics such asFST, in order to estimate genomic differentiation between populations and to identify loci under natural selection. The MVS construction was tested on simulated and real metagenomic data. MVSs showed the required quality for robust population genomics and allowed an accurate estimation of genomic differentiation (ΔFST< 0.0001 and <0.03 on simulated and real data respectively). Loci predicted under natural selection on real data were all detected by MVSs. MVSs represent a new paradigm that may simplify and enhance holistic approaches for population genomics and the evolution of microorganisms.
Coronary calcium scoring assessed on native screening chest CT imaging as predictor for outcome in COVID-19: An analysis of a hospitalized German cohort
Authors: Zimmermann Gregor S. , Fingerle Alexander A. , Müller-Leisse Christina , Gassert Felix , von Schacky Claudio E. , Ibrahim Tareq , Laugwitz Karl-Ludwig , Geisler Fabian , Spinner Christoph , Haller Bernhard , Makowski Markus R. , Nadjiri Jonathan
Published: December 2020

Background

Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, a number of risk factors for a poor outcome have been identified. Thereby, cardiovascular comorbidity has a major impact on mortality. We investigated whether coronary calcification as a marker for coronary artery disease (CAD) is appropriate for risk prediction in COVID-19.

Methods

Hospitalized patients with COVID-19 (n = 109) were analyzed regarding clinical outcome after native computed tomography (CT) imaging for COVID-19 screening. CAC (coronary calcium score) and clinical outcome (need for intensive care treatment or death) data were calculated following a standardized protocol. We defined three endpoints: critical COVID-19 and transfer to ICU, fatal COVID-19 and death, composite endpoint critical and fatal COVID-19, a composite of ICU treatment and death. We evaluated the association of clinical outcome with the CAC. Patients were dichotomized by the median of CAC. Hazard ratios and odds ratios were calculated for the events death or ICU or a composite of death and ICU.

Results

We observed significantly more events for patients with CAC above the group’s median of 31 for critical outcome (HR: 1.97[1.09,3.57], p = 0.026), for fatal outcome (HR: 4.95[1.07,22.9], p = 0.041) and the composite endpoint (HR: 2.31[1.28,4.17], p = 0.0056. Also, odds ratio was significantly increased for critical outcome (OR: 3.01 [1.37, 6.61], p = 0.01) and for fatal outcome (OR: 5.3 [1.09, 25.8], p = 0.02).

Conclusion

The results indicate a significant association between CAC and clinical outcome in COVID-19. Our data therefore suggest that CAC might be useful in risk prediction in patients with COVID-19.
A low-background Tet-On system based on post-transcriptional regulation using Csy4
Authors: Zhou Yicheng , Lei Chaoliang , Zhu Zhihui
Published: December 2020

On account of its stringent regulation and high rate of induction, the tetracycline regulatory system is used extensively for inducing target gene expression in eukaryotes. However, under certain circumstances, its associated background expression can be problematic, as in the expression of highly toxic proteins. We found that when using the Tet-On 3G system to drive expression of the kid toxin gene in sf9 insect cells, a higher percentage of cells were killed than when using an empty vector in the absence of the induction agent doxycycline, thereby indicating the leaky expression of this inducible expression system. Moreover, we found that the tetracycline-controlled transcriptional silencer (tTS) does not effectively reduce the background expression of the Tet-On 3G system in sf9 cells. However, Csy4, a Cas9 homologous protein in the CRISPR family with sequence-specific endonuclease activity, was found to be effective in reducing the Tet-On 3G system-associated background expression, although there was a concomitant reduction in the maximum induced expression. Nevertheless, we found that modification of the system via incorporation of TRE-controlled anti-sense csy4 in combination with a WSSVie1 (Δ23) promotor-driven sense csy4 significantly reduced the leaky expression of the Tet-On 3G system, and that the level of induction was higher than that initially obtained. This optimized Tet-On 3G system can significantly reduce cell death attributed to the background expression of Kid under uninduced conditions. Therefore, we developed a novel low-background inducible expression system for use in insect cells and potentially in other organisms including mammals based on post-transcriptional regulation using Csy4.
The life cycle of the Siamese shield leech, Placobdelloides siamensis Oka, 1917
Authors: Chiangkul Krittiya , Trivalairat Poramad , Purivirojkul Watchariya
Published: December 2020

Placobdelloides siamensis is a glossiphoniid leech with a short life cycle. In a laboratory setting, ten mature P. siamensis left their host (a turtle) after feeding for approximately three days and initiated copulation. The adults spent 3–4 days gestating before depositing eggs (272.8±62.9 eggs/clutch; range: 186–359 eggs/clutch). The eggs then changed from a creamy white to a creamy brownish color before hatching. Hatching occurred after incubation on the parent's ventral surface for 5–7 days. The transparent brood, with a single pair of red eyes, spent a couple of weeks under the venters of their parents. After this period, they left their parents and grew to maturity in 10–15 days; leeches were considered mature when their color was similar to that of their parents and they performed their first copulation. In addition, the mature leeches survived for 163 days on one feeding.
A CD209 ligand and a sialidase inhibitor differentially modulate adipose tissue and liver macrophage populations and steatosis in mice on the Methionine and Choline-Deficient (MCD) diet
Authors: Pilling Darrell , Karhadkar Tejas R. , Gomer Richard H.
Published: December 2020

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes and is characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver (steatosis). NAFLD can transition into non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), with liver cell injury, inflammation, and an increased risk of fibrosis. We previously found that injections of either 1866, a synthetic ligand for the lectin receptor CD209, or DANA, a sialidase inhibitor, can inhibit inflammation and fibrosis in multiple animal models. The methionine and choline-deficient (MCD) diet is a model of NASH which results in the rapid induction of liver steatosis and inflammation. In this report, we show that for C57BL/6 mice on a MCD diet, injections of both 1866 and DANA reversed MCD diet-induced decreases in white fat, decreases in adipocyte size, and white fat inflammation. However, these effects were not observed in type 2 diabeticdb/dbmice on a MCD diet. Indb/dbmice on a MCD diet, 1866 decreased liver steatosis, but these effects were not observed in C57BL/6 mice. There was no correlation between the ability of 1866 or DANA to affect steatosis and the effects of these compounds on the density of liver macrophage cells expressing CLEC4F, CD64, F4/80, or Mac2. Together these results indicate that 1866 and DANA modulate adipocyte size and adipose tissue macrophage populations, that 1866 could be useful for modulating steatosis, and that changes in the local density of 4 different liver macrophages cell types do not correlate with effects on liver steatosis.
Emergency ventilator for COVID-19
Authors: King William P. , Amos Jennifer , Azer Magdi , Baker Daniel , Bashir Rashid , Best Catherine , Bethke Eliot , Boppart Stephen A. , Bralts Elisabeth , Corey Ryan M. , Dietkus Rachael , Durack Gary , Elbel Stefan , Elliott Greg , Fava Jake , Goldenfeld Nigel , Goldstein Molly H. , Hayes Courtney , Herndon Nicole , Jamison Shandra , Johnson Blake , Johnson Harley , Johnson Mark , Kolaczynski John , Lee Tonghun , Maslov Sergei , McGregor Davis J. , Milner Derek , Moller Ralf , Mosley Jonathan , Musser Andy , Newberger Max , Null David , O’Bryan Lucas , Oelze Michael , O’Leary Jerry , Pagano Alex , Philpott Michael , Pianfetti Brian , Pille Alex , Pizzuto Luca , Ricconi Brian , Rubessa Marcello , Rylowicz Sam , Shipley Clifford , Singer Andrew C. , Stewart Brian , Switzky Rachel , Tawfick Sameh , Wheeler Matthew , White Karen , Widloski Evan M. , Wood Eric , Wood Charles , Wooldridge Abigail R.
Published: December 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the world in 2020 by spreading at unprecedented rates and causing tens of thousands of fatalities within a few months. The number of deaths dramatically increased in regions where the number of patients in need of hospital care exceeded the availability of care. Many COVID-19 patients experience Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), a condition that can be treated with mechanical ventilation. In response to the need for mechanical ventilators, designed and tested an emergency ventilator (EV) that can control a patient’s peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) and breathing rate, while keeping a positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP). This article describes the rapid design, prototyping, and testing of the EV. The development process was enabled by rapid design iterations using additive manufacturing (AM). In the initial design phase, iterations between design, AM, and testing enabled a working prototype within one week. The designs of the 16 different components of the ventilator were locked by additively manufacturing and testing a total of 283 parts having parametrically varied dimensions. In the second stage, AM was used to produce 75 functional prototypes to support engineering evaluation and animal testing. The devices were tested over more than two million cycles. We also developed an electronic monitoring system and with automatic alarm to provide for safe operation, along with training materials and user guides. The final designs are available online under a free license. The designs have been transferred to more than 70 organizations in 15 countries. This project demonstrates the potential for ultra-fast product design, engineering, and testing of medical devices needed for COVID-19 emergency response.
Pengaruh Annealing terhadap Sifat Keras dan Struktur Mikro Baja Tahan Karat AISI 410-3Mo-3Ni
Authors: Puspasari Vinda , Prasetyo Mukhlis Agung , Ta’an Halab Januarius Velix , Anwar Moch. Syaiful , Mabruri Efendi , Herbirowo Satrio
Published: December 2020

AISI 410-3Mo-3Ni stainless steel is a martensitic steel which limited in using when compared to austenitic and ferritic stainless steels. Martensitic steel has an essential role in specific components due to a combination of strength, toughness and excellent corrosion resistance. However, martensitic steel tends to undergo decreasing in mechanical properties and microstructure after the forging process. In this study, mechanical properties and microstructure of the forged AISI 410 after receiving annealing heat treatment will be studied. Annealing aims to reduce material hardness and increase grain refinement of material. Annealing heat treatment is carried out by varying the annealing temperature and time. Annealing temperature variations are 7000, 7600, and 8000C. The annealing time variation is 3 hours and 6 hours. The effect of annealing time and temperature will be studied on the hardness and microstructure of the AISI 410 modified material. The optimum hardness of 35.9 HRC in sample with annealing treatment in 760°C for 6 hours. The microstructure shows delta ferrite, martensite, austenite, and carbide phases which affect hardness value of annealed samples.
PENGKAYAAN UNSUR YTTRIUM DAN CERIUM PADA TERAK TIMAH BANGKA: ANALISIS TERMODINAMIKA
Authors: Permana Sulaksana , Rachel Debby , Prasetyo Agus Budi , Majid Rafdi Abdul , Kartika Wahyu , Susanto Iwan , M Johny Wahyuadi
Published: December 2020

Beberapa negara melakukan penelitian untuk mendapatkan sumber unsur tanah jarang (UTJ) dikarenakan dominasi suplai UTJ oleh negara China. Beberapa penelitian sebelumnya menunjukkan adanya sumber UTJ dari proses penambangan dan pemurnian timah di kepulauan Bangka Belitung. Pada penelitian ini terak timah Bangka (TTB) dilakukan serangkaian kondisi proses untuk mendapatkan hasil pengkayaan yttrium dan cerium yang optimal. Proses yang dilakukan adalah dengan melakukan pemanggangan TTB pada suhu 900⁰C, pelindian dengan NaOH, pelindian dengan HNO3 dan terakhir pelindian dengan H3PO4 dengan variasi konsentrasi. Hasil yang didapatkan adalah kadar optimal cerium 4,39 % setelah kondisi proses pelindian NaOH dan kadar yttrium mengalami peningkatan terus pada seluruh kondisi proses serta didapatkan kadar optimal 1,35 % setelah dilakukan pelindian dengan HNO3 2M dan H3PO4 1,5 M.
PENGARUH PENAMBAHAN MAGNESIUM TERHADAP SIFAT MEKANIK, MIKROSTRUKTUR DAN ELECTROCHEMICAL IMPEDANCE SPECTROSCOPY POLIMER PLA/ABS UNTUK MATERIAL IMPLAN BIOABSORBABEL
Authors: Erryani Aprilia
Published: December 2020

Pada penelitian ini telah dilakukan pembuatan implan bioabsorbable dengan bahan polimer logam komposit (PLA/ABS/Mg) dengan menggunakan metode solvent casting dengan tiga komposisi yakni PLA:ABS 70:30, 60:40, 80:20 dengan komposisi Mg masing-masing 5%, 10% dan 15%  kemudian dilarutkan dengan clorofoam sebanyak 17 mL sehingga mendapatkan sampel berbentuk film. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui variasi optimal  PLA/ABS terhadapat karakterisitik sifat mekanik, morfologi, impedansi dengan adanya penambahan Mg. Hasil karakterisasi sifat mekanik menggunakan uji tarik dengan komposisi PLA:ABS 80:20 pada variasi Mg 10% dan 15% menunjukkan hasil yang optimal, sehingga Mg terbukti meningkatkan sifat mekanik dari PLA. Semakin banyak penambahan variasi Mg menunjukkan peningkatan nilai kekerasan vikers dan impedansi pada polimer logam komposit. Hasil pengamatan dengan menggunakan SEM pada kompoisi PLA:ABS 70:30 menunjukan bahwa homogenitas Mg didalam polimer telah tercapai dengan baik.
PENGARUH PERLAKUAN HIDROTERMAL TERHADAP MORFOLOGI, SIFAT OPTIK DAN SIFAT LISTRIK LAPISAN TIPIS NANORODS ZNO
Authors: Suhaimi Lalu
Published: December 2020

Zinc oxide nanorods (ZnO NRs) is a semiconductor material that has been widely applied in various fields. In this research, ZnO NRs were successfully grown on ITO substrates by chemichal bath deposition (CBD) method. The process begins with making a seed solution using an ecimolar mixture of Zn-Nitrate and hexamethylentetramine (HMTA) at 00C for one hour with 0.015 M concentration. Furthermore, making a layer of seeds using spin coating technique. ZnO NRs were grown using the CBD method at 900C for three hours then treated with variations which are hydrothermal method treatment and non-hydrothermal method treatment at 1500C for three hours. Samples were given characterization treatment using SEM, XRD, UV-Vis and four-point probe. SEM results showed that hydrothermal treatment was able to increase the coverage of nanorods on the substrate to be more prevelently and was able to increase the vertical structure of the nanorods. The results of XRD analysis showed that samples given hydrothermal treatment experienced an increase in the crystallite size. The amount of crystallite size in the sample treated with variation of non-hydrothermal treatment and hydrothermal treatment was 71, 198 and 165.696 nm. Hydrothermal treatment of nanorods samples decreased the sample diameter from 288,252 nm to 125,824 nm. The transmittance value of the samples decreased in the presence of hydrothermal treatment which is 56.53% to 38.67%. The hydrothermal treatment was able to reduce the energy bandgap (Eg) of the sample, while the sample of non-hydrothermal treatment showed value of the Eg was 3.22 eV. Meanwhile, the value of Eg after hydrothermal treatment was 3.17 eV. The resistivity value of ZnO NRs with hydrothermal treatment was 0.833 x 10-4 Ωcm, while the resistivity value of non-hydrothermal treatment was 1.126 x 10-4 Ωcm. Key words: zinc-oxide nanorods, chemical bath deposition, hydro-thermal
Mechanical Properties Enhancement of Al-Si-Cu-Fe Alloy Through Aging Treatment Variations
Authors: Muttahar Moch Iqbal Zaelana , Virdhian Shinta , Putra Purbaja Adi , Djuanda Dagus Resmana , Afrilinda Eva , Genesar Amsal
Published: December 2020

Al-Si alloys are being widely used as main engine components replacing iron in several parts in the automotive industry. Some of its mechanical properties were a reference in its alloy utilization. In this research, the heat treatment carried out on the specimen included solid solution treatment and the artificial aging process for aluminium alloys. Test pieces were heated on the furnace with a solid solution treatment process at 540 ° C with holding time around 5 hours and quenched at 60 °C with water quenchant, followed by 3 different aging treatment which included single-stage aging, artificial aging with pre-aged, and double stage aging. Tests carried out by hardness test, tensile strength test, impact test, metallographic and Scanning Electron Microscopy-Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) observations. The results of this research showed the differences in phase constituent and morphology microconstituents due to variations of aging. The difference of each treatment could be seen in the morphology of the precipitate that is dispersed, rounded and needle-like shaped, this phase can influence the mechanical properties of Al-Si-Cu alloys. The results of mechanical testing show the highest hardness was obtained by double stage aging treatment 161.27 HRB. The highest tensile strength occurs in specimens with a single-stage aging treatment of 202.56 MPa. The highest impact resistance occurred in samples with the pre-aging treatment of 18.6 J.
Kesetaraan Gender dalam Pelaku Iptek, Mungkinkah?
Authors: Pratiwi Andi Misbahul , Pitaloka Ardanareswari Ayu , Asmara Indri Juwita , Poerbosisworo Ishelina Rosaira , Faraz Nahiyah Jaidi , Simamora Nani Grace , Setiawan Sigit , Hermawati Wati , Santoso Widjayanti M. , Dinaseviani Anggini
Published: December 2020

Maraknya ketidakadilan yang dialami kaum perempuan berdasarkan kacamata keilmuan gender dan feminisme, khususnya mereka yang berkecimpung dalam bidang iptek, bukanlah sesuatu yang baru. Menjadi menarik manakala di hadapan kita tersaji wacana empiris mengenai pola dan struktur sosial masyarakat yang berkontribusi mengonstruksi suatu pandangan sehingga mengondisikan terciptanya tatanan masyarakat yang tidak seimbang antara kaum laki-laki dan perempuan, khususnya dalam ranah iptek.
Buku yang berada di tangan Anda ini diramu secara khusus dari hasil penelitian para peneliti LIPI dengan pihak dari instansi terkait lainnya dalam menyingkap fenomena ketimpangan gender sebagai pelaku iptek. Pengalaman beberapa perempuan sebagai sivitas perguruan tinggi, aparatur sipil negara, anggota legislatif, hingga pelaku usaha kecil yang memanfaatkan peran teknologi, dengan pola dan keunikannya masing-masing, diceritakan secara runut dalam buku (bunga rampai) ini.
Dengan demikian, terbitan LIPI Press kali ini cocok bagi Anda yang tertarik atau tengah mendalami isu-isu kesenjangan gender yang terjadi di sekeliling kita, khususnya dalam bidang iptek, beserta faktor yang melatarbelakanginya. Semoga hadirnya buku ini dapat berkontribusi bagi kemajuan ilmu pengetahuan dalam mengungkap fakta kesenjangan yang terjadi antara kaum perempuan dan laki-laki, khususnya mereka yang berjibaku dalam dunia iptek.
DRACAENA JIEWHOEI (ASPARAGACEAE), A NEW ENDEMIC SPECIES FROM SUMATRA, INDONESIA
Authors: Hambali G. G. , Sulistiarini Diah , Rugayah Rugayah
Published: December 2020

HAMBALI, G. G., SULISTIARINI, D. & RUGAYAH. 2020. Dracaena jiewhoei (Asparagaceae), a new endemic species from Sumatra, Indonesia. Reinwardtia 19(2): 75‒79. ‒‒ Dracaena jiewhoei Hambali, Sulistiarini & Rugayah, a new endemic species from Muara Emat, Batang Merangin, Jambi, Sumatra, Indonesia is described and illustrated. It is genetically related to Dracaena cantleyi Baker but differs substantially in a range of morphological and its growth pattern characteristics.
ANATOMICAL STUDIES ON WALLICHIA NANA GRIFF., A WILD PALM OF ASSAM, INDIA
Authors: Mehmud Selim , Roy Himu
Published: December 2020

MEHMUD, S. & ROY, H. 2020. Anatomical studies on Wallichia nana Griff., a wild palm of Assam, India. Reinwardtia 19(2): 97‒102. ‒‒ The present communicated research is a study based on the observation of free hand transverse section of leaf, stem and root and epidermal morphology of lamina in Wallichia nana, a species distributed in North-eastern states of India. Occurrence of paracytic stomata was noted on both surfaces of the lamina but comparatively more on lower surface. Number of metaxylem vessel recorded in lamina is single whereas, one to two in stem, petiole and roots. Presence of mucilage sacs recorded in the cortex of both petiole and stem.
DIVERSITY OF FRUIT FLIES (TEPHRITIDAE: BACTROCERA SPP.) IN CAMPUS C OF AIRLANGGA UNIVERSITY, SURABAYA, INDONESIA
Authors: Arum Eka Kartika , Affandi Moch. , Hariyanto Sucipto
Published: December 2020

This research aims to get information about the species of host plants and fruit flies, composition and structure of community, distribution pattern, and impact of environmental factors to fruit flies in Campus C, Airlangga University. Research was conducted from August to November 2019. A modification of Steiner trap with methyl eugenol 1.5 ml bait was installed in nine sites. Each Steiner trap was placed on a mango tree 1-2 meters above ground level. Trapped fruit fly specimens were collected after one week. Four replications were made, with intervals between two periods of installation. As many as 682 host plants of the fruit flies were found at the study site consisting of 25 species from 15 families. Results showed that 1121 individuals of Bactrocera fruit flies were found, consisting of 6 species, namely B. carambolae, B. dorsalis, B. minuscula, B. papayae, B. occipitalis, and B. musae. The most abundant species was B. carambolae (62.8%), followed by B. dorsalis (22.8%), B. minuscula (8.4%), B. papayae (4.5%), B. occipitalis (1%), and the lowest was B. musae (0.5%). B. occipitalis has an even distribution pattern, while five other species have aggregated distribution patterns. The diversity index at nine locations ranged from 0.855 (low) to 1.328 (moderate). B. carambolae and B. dorsalis were the dominant species. The presence of fruit flies was influenced by environmental (humidity, temperature, sunlight intensity, wind) and host plant factors.
Resenha do livro "Teorias do Discurso - Novas Práticas e Formas Discursivas"
Authors: Ribeiro de Moura Douglas
Published: December 2020

Resenha crítica da obra "Teorias do Discurso - Novas Práticas e Formas Discursivas", publicada em 2020.
Discursos materializados em canções de Naira Azavedo
Authors: De Arruda Júnior Francisco , Abreu Holanda Janete
Published: December 2020

Este artigo analisa e descreve a rede de enunciados, em função de jogos de poder e resistência, materializados nas letras de músicas no movimento nomeado atualmente de feminejo. Assim, buscamos, em nossa pesquisa, dar visibilidade aos enunciados que, nesse estilo musical, ao serem reiterados/repetidos, legitimam saberes sobre a mulher. Para a análise, selecionamos os enunciados do significativo conjunto das canções de Naiara Azevedo para a construção do corpus de nossa pesquisa. Assim, no apoio de uma análise discursiva, mobilizamos os postulados de Foucault (1979, 2007, 2009, 2010) e suas contribuições para Análise do Discurso francesa (AD), para discutirmos as relações de poder e resistência que colocam em jogo relações entre sujeitos. Com isso, podemos observar como é constituído o discurso de resistência, por meio de estratégias precisas, no feminejo. Por meio das análises, pudemos constatar que as posições do sujeito mulher resiste às regras e aos discursos hegemônicos na sociedade, ocupando e, até mesmo transgredindo, papéis e espaços sociais legitimados.
Língua fascista, discurso contraditório
Authors: Nascimento Lucas
Published: December 2020

Este trabalho está filiado à Análise do Discurso e aos autores Pêcheux, Foucault, Courtine e Barthes. São enunciados das análises: “Quem quiser vir ao Brasil fazer sexo com mulher, fique à vontade” e “Não podemos ser país do mundo gay, temos família”, afirmações de Jair Messias Bolsonaro, durante café da manhã com jornalistas, em 25 de abril de 2019, em Brasília-DF. Argumentamos em relação à expressão fique à vontade que abre fissuras na imagem da mulher brasileira e a simboliza ao turismo sexual do país. Argumentamos também em relação à contradição do segundo enunciado, situação em que o locutor nega para afirmar. A negação é para a sexualidade do homem homossexual, tendo como funcionamento discursivo a exclusão sexista e a afirmação homofóbica. Portanto, o discurso de Bolsonaro corrobora com o seguinte imaginário sobre o turismo brasileiro: a exploração do corpo da mulher brasileira e a negação da homossexualidade – elementos de uma língua fascista.

Palavras-chave: Língua; Discurso; Fascismo; Misoginia; Homofobia.