bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physicochemical, Microbial and Sensory Characteristics of Yoghurt Processed by Adding Various Formulations of Gum Arabic and Guar Gum
Authors: Salih Zakaria A. , Siddeeg Azhari , Farga Ammar Al- , Mousa Rasha M. A. , Husam S. A. , Zubair A. S. Al
Published: November 2020

Yoghurt is one of the most popular fermented dairy products widely consumed all over the world. The present study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical, microbial and sensory characteristics of yoghurt produced by added various levels of Gum Arabic and Guar gum (stabilizers). Physicochemical characteristics, microbial characteristics and sensory evaluation of processed yoghurt samples were conducted under laboratory conditions by standard methods. The results showed that yoghurt produced by the addition of Gum Arabic at concentrations (0.2, 0.35, and 0.5%) had less serum separation (1.6, 1.4, and 3.3 ml/l) after 9 days compared with that produced by adding Guar gum (4.5., 3.1., 0.0 ml/lit), respectively, and their mixture (4.3., 6.1. and 3.5 ml/l). Results reported significant differences in pH values (4.9, 4.5, and 3.9) during storage (0, 3, and 9 days), respectively for all types of stabilizers added. The results illustrated significant differences in total solid (7–8%) at different concentrations during the storage period. The study showed no significant difference in stabilizers (Gum Arabic and Guar Gum). The effect of storage on microbial characteristics was determined and the results showed that all microbial characteristics except coliform bacteria showed a significant decrease in the supplemented yoghurt samples compared with those of control yoghurt, while no effect with stabilizer concentration on microbial characteristics. Sensory characteristics (texture, color, and overall acceptability) were significantly improved, while the flavor was not affected with type and concentrations of stabilizers, but affected with storage period. Yoghurt processed with the addition of Gum Arabic had best quality characteristics than yoghurt made with addition Guar gum and a mixture of them. The study recommended doing more researches in rheological, microbial, and sensory characteristics to improve the quality of yoghurt.
Evaluation of ‘Revamped’ Crop Insurance Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) among Paddy Farmers in Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Paulraj Asha Priyanka , Easwaran Nandakumar
Published: November 2020

Agricultural sector in India employs more than 50% of the workforce, making crop insurance essential. Crop Insurance in India has continuously evolved for nearly half a decade with various names. With the past knowledge, Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) was implemented during 2016 in a mission to overcome the lacunas in its predecessors. The scheme was revamped during 2020. In this context, a study was conducted to analyse the performance of the scheme among Paddy farmers in the state of Tamil Nadu during 2019 prior to revamping. Thus, this paper has attempted to evaluate the proposed changes in revamping with relevance to the issues faced by various stakeholders of crop insurance. Among the insured farmers, claim not triggered and delay in settlement were the major problems faced in the scheme. Among un-insured farmers, credibility was the major issued for non-enrolment. The study also has collected the response of Agricultural Officials towards the operation of the scheme in the study area. From the results, it was found that the recent revamping is grounded and well planned to make an impact in the crop insurance arena. However, the increase in awareness activities is highly necessary to increase the cover of farmers and to stabilise the numbers.
Quantifying and Mapping of Major, Secondary and Micronutrient Status of Tomato Growing Soils in Kolar District, Karnataka Using GIS and GPS Approach
Authors: Prasad P. N. Siva , Subbarayappa C. T. , Ramamurthy V. , Sathish A.
Published: November 2020

Assessment of land use-induced changes in soil properties is essential for addressing issues of spatial variability in soil fertility and sustainable land productivity. In view of this, a study was conducted to assess the impact of spatial variability on physicochemical properties, macro and micro nutrient status of 75 farmers fields of tomato growing areas of Kolar district, Karnataka. Arc Map with spatial analyst function of Arc GIS software was used to prepare soil fertility maps, which would act as an important tool for soil as well as nutrient management for sustainable crop production by using Global Positioning System coordinates. The results revealed that the soils under investigation were acidic to alkaline in reaction (pH 4.41 to 8.13), mostly non saline and low to high in organic carbon status (0.53 to 1.95%). Available nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulphur content varied from 150.53-348.10, 6.4 - 111.44, 147.18 - 916.61 and 12.29 - 103.8 kg ha-1. Exchangeable Ca, Mg are in the range of 2.5 – 14.2 and 1.2 – 6.6 C mol (p+) kg. The GIS-aided thematic maps with respect to available zinc, 6.67 (low), 21.33 (medium) and 72 (high) per cent samples were categorized, based on the existing critical limits. All the studied samples i.e., 100 per cent were high in copper content, 65.33, 30.67 and 4 per cent samples of Mn, 25.33, 32 and 42.67 per cent samples of Fe, were categorized as low, medium and high in nutrient status respectively. With respect to available boron 16.67 per cent was under low, 38.09 per cent was under medium and 45.24 per cent was under high nutrient status. The nutrient index (NI) of tomato growing areas of Kolar district revealed that N (1.19), manganese (1.39) and iron (1.29) were categorized as low, available boron (2.17) as medium and P (2.65), K (2.71), S (2.65) zinc (2.75), copper (3.0) as high nutrient index category.
Age Pattern Related Moribity and Mortality among COVID-19 Patients: Indian Chapter
Authors: Sood Adiesh
Published: November 2020

The COVID-19 till date has groped in around million lives across the globe that includes children and elderly who became a victim of this pandemic. During course of this pandemic, there has been discussion of age related vulnerability to the disease and the preventive measures and policies implemented by various countries across the globe. The elderly have suffered a disproportionate burden of COVID-19. Patients associated co-morbidities pose a greater threat to that group as compared to general population. The epidemiological data and Case Fatality Ratio (CFR) collected from countries vary significantly but give a vivid picture of the situation of the pandemic in each region. Hence, the author reviewed the published data from several countries to investigate relationship between age and COVID-19 mortality and morbidity. The author also took the time to study briefly about the role of angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) as a receptor against the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. The author also reviewed the literature for studies explaining the difference in the physiological inflammatory response to SARS-CoV-2 infection according to age.

Thus, the information achieved from these data will prove to be useful in determining the precautionary and preventive policies irrational treatment of COVID-19.
Prevalence of Candidiasis Infection & Antifungal Susceptibility Pattern at Tertiary Care Hospital, Jaipur
Authors: Sharma Falguni , Mamoria Ved Prakash , Sabharwal Ekadashi Rajni , Sharma Richa
Published: November 2020

Background: Candida species are among the most common fungal pathogens. They are ubiquitous yeasts found on plants and form the microbiota of the alimentary tract of mammals and the mucocutaneous membranes in humans.

Methods: A total of 90 clinical samples were collected from Mahatma Gandhi Medical College & Hospital, Jaipur over a period of one year. Primary identification is done by the direct smear examination by Gram’s staining and KOH mount and then further sub-cultured on SDA media. 

Results: Out of 90 clinical specimens collected, most common form of Candidiasis seen was Candiduria type followed by blood cultures, swab, Endotracheal tube, sputum and Bronchialveolar lavage. The maximum number of patients were found in the age group of 21-30 years, followed by 51-60 years. Out of 90 patients, 48 (53.3%) were males and 42 (46.6%) were females. C. tropicalis (44.4%) was the predominant species followed by C. albicans and other species of Candida. Among 90 samples, 32% were Candida albicans and remaining 68% were Non albicans Candida species.

Conclusion: The study found that C. tropicalis was sensitive against Micafungin & Caspofungin, showing a 100% sensitivity. Candida albicans showed 100% sensitivity against Flucytosine.
Attitude of Future Health Care Providers Regarding Treatment and Management of Mental Health Disorders
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad Shahid , Khan Salah-Ud-Din , Iqbal Muhammad Zahid
Published: November 2020

Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the attitude of future health care providers regarding the treatment and management of mental health disorders (MHDs).

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a convenience sampling method. A self-developed and pre-validated tool was used to collect data from students studying in three health care faculties of a university in Malaysia. The Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) Version 24.0 was used to analyze the data.

Results: Out of the total study participants, males were 104 (36.6%) and females were 180 (63.4%) in the study. For the race variable the Malays students were 7 (2.5%), Chinese students 212 (74.6%), Indians students 60 (21.2%), and others 5 (1.7%).

Conclusion: Overall positive attitude was observed among the studied cohort of future health care providers.
Despojos do colonizador: os zanryu-hojin exilados entre a política e a sociedade
Authors: Santos André Saraiva
Published: November 2020

Tendo por base a derrota incondicional do Japão em 1945, perdendo todo o seu império colonial espalhado pelo continente asiático, este estudo pretende analisar uma das vítimas desse império: as do próprio colonizador. Perante um Exército e um Estado que descartou responsabilidades de os repatriar, estes denominados zanryu-hojin foram forçados a uma adaptação abrupta e nem sempre bem-sucedida à sociedade local do pós-guerra. Imposto o exílio, as consequências foram marcantes. Assim, é objetivo deste estudo conhecer as estratégias de resistência deste grupo deslocado e a sua adaptação à conjuntura local. Igualmente, pretende-se conhecer as políticas governamentais postas em prática para solucionar o seu repatriamento (ou adiamento) e a assistência prestada in loco (se alguma) na adaptação do retornado ao Japão. Uma vez quebrado o exílio com o retorno à ansiada “pátria”, serão esses “japoneses-chineses” reconhecidos como membros plenos da nação japonesa pelo governo e pela sociedade? Ou serão eles – e as suas famílias chinesas – remetidos a outra forma de exílio, perpetuando-se a sua existência “exílica”?

Palavras-chave: pós-colonialismo - zanryu-hojin - exílio - subalternidade.

 

Abstract:

With Japan’s unconditional defeat in 1945, losing all its colonial empire scattered over Asia, this study intends to analyze one of the victims of that same empire: those of the colonizer. Faced with an army and a state that has ruled out repatriation responsibilities, the so-called zanryu-hojin have been forced to an abrupt and a very difficult adaptation to their local postwar society. With the exile imposed, the consequences were tremendous. It is the objective of this study to know the strategies of resistance of this displaced group and its adaptation to the local conjuncture. It is also intended to know the government policies put in place to solve their repatriation (or postponement) and the assistance rendered in loco (if any) in the adaptation of the returnee to Japan. Once this condition of exile is broken and the return to the “homeland” completed, are these ‘Japanese-Chinese’ recognized as full members of the Japanese nation by their government and society? Or are they - and their Chinese families - relegated to another form of exile, perpetuating their ‘exilic’ existence?

Keywords: postcolonialism - zanryu-hojin - exile - subalternity.

 
Neurofeedback did reduce medication for ADHD
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: November 2020

Many parents are opposed to the idea of stimulant medication for their child's moderate to severe attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), even though it is the first‐line recommended treatment. A recent study has found that neurofeedback (NF), even though it had no effect at either the end of treatment or at the 13‐month follow‐up based on inattention only, did result in the need for less medication.
Effects of Er Additions on the Microstructure, Mechanical Properties, and Electrical Conductivity of the Al‐0.4Fe‐0.05Si Alloy
Authors: Guo Weichun , Chen Xiaohong , Liu Ping , Yu Guoliang , Fu Shaoli , Fan Jun , Zhou Honglei , Liu Hang
Published: November 2020

The effects of Er addition to the Al‐Fe‐Si alloy on phase composition, microstructure, electrical conductivity, and mechanical properties are studied. Formation of the Al3Fe, Al6Fe, Al3Er, ErSi and Al10Fe2Er intermetallic phases in the Al‐Fe‐Si‐Er alloy is proved by optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The results show that the spherical Al3Er precipitates with a radius of less than 6.5 nm ± 0.5 nm form a coherent phase boundary with α‐Al. The recovery temperature range and the recrystallization temperature of Al‐Fe‐Si alloy with Er addition after 80% cold deformation is recorded by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). After annealing at 260 °C for 1 h, the electrical conductivity of the rolled Al‐0.4Fe‐0.05Si‐0.2Er alloy increases from 60.1 to 62.2 IACS%, and the hardness decreases from 50.5 to 36.6 HV. The average tensile properties of the Al‐0.4Fe‐0.05Si‐0.2Er alloy are YS = 131 ± 3 Mpa and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) = 142 ± 3 MPa with 13 ± 1% elongation after annealing at 260 °C for 1 h. The average radius of Al3Er precipitates in Al‐0.4Fe‐0.05Si‐0.2Er is 7.8 ± 0.2 nm, and its strengthening mechanism is Orowan mechanism.
The Future of Memristors: Materials Engineering and Neural Networks
Authors: Sun Kaixuan , Chen Jingsheng , Yan Xiaobing
Published: November 2020

From Deep Blue to AlphaGo, artificial intelligence and machine learning are booming, and neural networks have become the hot research direction. However, due to the size limit of complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) transistors, von Neumann‐based computing systems are facing multiple challenges (such as memory walls). As the number of transistors required by the neural network increases, the development of neural networks based on the von Neumann computer is limited by volume and energy consumption. As the fourth basic circuit element, memristor shines in the field of neuromorphic computing. The new computer architecture based on memristor is widely considered as a substitute for the von Neumann architecture and has great potential to deal with the neural network and big data era challenge. This article reviews existing materials and structures of memristors, neurophysiological simulations based on memristors, and applications of memristor‐based neural networks. The feasibility and advancement of implementing neural networks using memristors are discussed, the difficulties that need to be overcome at this stage are put forward, and their development prospects and challenges faced are also discussed.
Engineered Microsystems for Spheroid and Organoid Studies
Authors: Kang Sung‐Min , Kim Daehan , Lee Ji‐Hoon , Takayama Shuichi , Park Joong Yull
Published: November 2020

3D in vitro model systems such as spheroids and organoids provide an opportunity to extend the physiological understanding using recapitulated tissues that mimic physiological characteristics of in vivo microenvironments. Unlike 2D systems, 3D in vitro systems can bridge the gap between inadequate 2D cultures and the in vivo environments, providing novel insights on complex physiological mechanisms at various scales of organization, ranging from the cellular, tissue‐, to organ‐levels. To satisfy the ever‐increasing need for highly complex and sophisticated systems, many 3D in vitro models with advanced microengineering techniques have been developed to answer diverse physiological questions. This review summarizes recent advances in engineered microsystems for the development of 3D in vitro model systems. The relationship between the underlying physics behind the microengineering techniques, and their ability to recapitulate distinct 3D cellular structures and functions of diverse types of tissues and organs are highlighted and discussed in detail. A number of 3D in vitro models and their engineering principles are also introduced. Finally, current limitations are summarized, and perspectives for future directions in guiding the development of 3D in vitro model systems using microengineering techniques are provided.
Moisture‐Enabled Electricity Generation: From Physics and Materials to Self‐Powered Applications
Authors: Shen Daozhi , Duley Walter W. , Peng Peng , Xiao Ming , Feng Jiayun , Liu Lei , Zou Guisheng , Zhou Y. Norman
Published: November 2020

The exploration of the utilization of sustainable, green energy represents one way in which it is possible to ameliorate the growing threat of the global environmental issues and the crisis in energy. Moisture, which is ubiquitous on Earth, contains a vast reservoir of low‐grade energy in the form of gaseous water molecules and water droplets. It has now been found that a number of functionalized materials can generate electricity directly from their interaction with moisture. This suggests that electrical energy can be harvested from atmospheric moisture and enables the creation of a new range of self‐powered devices. Herein, the basic mechanisms of moisture‐induced electricity generation are discussed, the recent advances in materials (including carbon nanoparticles, graphene materials, metal oxide nanomaterials, biofibers, and polymers) for harvesting electrical energy from moisture are summarized, and some strategies for improving energy conversion efficiency and output power in these devices are provided. The potential applications of moisture electrical generators in self‐powered electronics, healthcare, security, information storage, artificial intelligence, and Internet‐of‐things are also discussed. Some remaining challenges are also considered, together with a number of suggestions for potential new developments of this emerging technology.
Designing Ultraflexible Perovskite X‐Ray Detectors through Interface Engineering
Authors: Demchyshyn Stepan , Verdi Matteo , Basiricò Laura , Ciavatti Andrea , Hailegnaw Bekele , Cavalcoli Daniela , Scharber Markus Clark , Sariciftci Niyazi Serdar , Kaltenbrunner Martin , Fraboni Beatrice
Published: November 2020

X‐ray detectors play a pivotal role in development and advancement of humankind, from far‐reaching impact in medicine to furthering the ability to observe distant objects in outer space. While other electronics show the ability to adapt to flexible and lightweight formats, state‐of‐the‐art X‐ray detectors rely on materials requiring bulky and fragile configurations, severely limiting their applications. Lead halide perovskites is one of the most rapidly advancing novel materials with success in the field of semiconductor devices. Here, an ultraflexible, lightweight, and highly conformable passively operated thin film perovskite X‐ray detector with a sensitivity as high as 9.3 ± 0.5 µC Gy−1 cm−2 at 0 V and a remarkably low limit of detection of 0.58 ± 0.05 μGy s−1 is presented. Various electron and hole transporting layers accessing their individual impact on the detector performance are evaluated. Moreover, it is shown that this ultrathin form‐factor allows for fabrication of devices detecting X‐rays equivalently from front and back side.
Connecting Hydrophobic Surfaces in Cyclic Peptides Increases Membrane Permeability
Authors: Hoang Huy N. , Hill Timothy A. , Fairlie David P.
Published: November 2020

N‐ or C‐methylation in natural and synthetic cyclic peptides can increase membrane permeability, but it remains unclear why this happens in some cases but not others. Here we compare three‐dimensional structures for cyclic peptides from six families, including isomers differing only in the location of an N‐ or Cα‐methyl substituent. We show that a single methyl group only increases membrane permeability when it connects or expands hydrophobic surface patches. Positional isomers, with the same molecular weight, hydrogen bond donors/acceptors, rotatable bonds, calculated LogP, topological polar surface area, and total hydrophobic surface area, can have different membrane permeabilities that correlate with the size of the largest continuous hydrophobic surface patch. These results illuminate a key local molecular determinant of membrane permeability.
Decreased connection density and modularity of functional brain networks during n‐back working memory paradigm
Authors: Kaposzta Zalan , Stylianou Orestis , Mukli Peter , Eke Andras , Racz Frigyes Samuel
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Investigating how the brain adapts to increased mental workload through large‐scale functional reorganization appears as an important research question. Functional connectivity (FC) aims at capturing how disparate regions of the brain dynamically interact, while graph theory provides tools for the topological characterization of the reconstructed functional networks. Although numerous studies investigated how FC is altered in response to increased working memory (WM) demand, current results are still contradictory as few studies confirmed the robustness of these findings in a low‐density setting.

Methods

In this study, we utilized the n‐back WM paradigm, in which subjects were presented stimuli (single digits) sequentially, and their task was to decide for each given stimulus if it matched the one presented n‐times earlier. Electroencephalography recordings were performed under a control (0‐back) and two task conditions of varying difficulty (2‐ and 3‐back). We captured the characteristic connectivity patterns for each difficulty level by performing FC analysis and described the reconstructed functional networks with various graph theoretical measures.

Results

We found a substantial decrease in FC when transitioning from the 0‐ to the 2‐ or 3‐back conditions, however, no differences relating to task difficulty were identified. The observed changes in brain network topology could be attributed to the dissociation of two (frontal and occipitotemporal) functional modules that were only present during the control condition. Furthermore, behavioral and performance measures showed both positive and negative correlations to connectivity indices, although only in the higher frequency bands.

Conclusion

The marked decrease in FC may be due to temporarily abandoned connections that are redundant or irrelevant in solving the specific task. Our results indicate that FC analysis is a robust tool for investigating the response of the brain to increased cognitive workload.
The prevalence of hereditary neuromuscular disorders in Northern Norway
Authors: Müller Kai Ivar , Ghelue Marijke Van , Lund Irene , Jonsrud Christoffer , Arntzen Kjell Arne
Published: November 2020

Aim

To investigate the point prevalence of hereditary neuromuscular disorders on January 1, 2020 in Northern Norway.

Methods

From January 1, 1999, until January 1, 2020, we screened medical and genetic hospital records in Northern Norway for hereditary neuromuscular disorders.

Results

We identified 542 patients with a hereditary neuromuscular disorder living in Northern Norway, giving a point prevalence of 111.9/100,000 on January 1, 2020. The prevalence of children (<18 years old) and adults (≥18 years old) were 57.8/100,000 and 125.1/100,000, respectively. Inherited neuropathies had a prevalence of 38.8/100,000. Charcot–Marie–Tooth and hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies had a prevalence of 29.9/100,000 and 8.3/100,000, respectively. We calculated a prevalence of 3.7/100,000 for spinal muscular atrophies and 2.4/100,000 for Kennedy disease. Inherited myopathies were found in 67.7/100,000. Among these, we registered 13.4/100,000 myotonic dystrophy type 1, 6.8/100,000 myotonic dystrophy type 2, 7.3/100,000 Duchenne muscular dystrophy, 1.6/100,000 Becker muscular dystrophy, 3.7/100,000 facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, 12.8/100,000 limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy, 2.5/100,000 hypokalemic periodic paralysis and 11.4/100,000 myotonia congenita.

Conclusion

Our total prevalence was higher than previously hypothesized in European population‐based studies. The prevalence was especially high for myotonia congenita and limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy. The prevalence of Charcot–Marie–Tooth polyneuropathy was higher than in most European studies, but lower than previously reported in epidemiological studies in other regions of Norway.
“Houston, we have a problem”: Revealing MOOC practitioners' experiences regarding feedback provision to learners facing difficulties
Authors: Topali Paraskevi , Ortega‐Arranz Alejandro , Martínez‐Monés Alejandra , Villagrá‐Sobrino Sara L.
Published: November 2020

In spite of the high impact of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), learners frequently disengage from the course contents and activities due to unexpected problems of different natures, such as content‐related or technical issues. Feedback has been identified as an important aspect of the learning process directly connected with learners' engagement. However, the massive and impersonal nature of MOOCs hinders the provision of efficient and timely feedback to those learners facing problems. This paper examines how MOOC practitioners identify and support learners facing problems, what challenges they encounter, and what strategies they apply to overcome such challenges. Additionally, the current study aims to compare the learners' problems and practitioners' experiences between engineering‐related and nonengineering related MOOCs. A qualitative phenomenological study has been conducted through semistructured interviews with 14 MOOC practitioners. The evidence gathered shows diverse learners' and practitioners' problems shared among engineering and nonengineering courses and a general concern on how to address individual learners' needs in time. A common practice of problem identification regards checking the self‐reported issues in communication forums. Identification strategies with the use of learning analytics are limited due to platform restrictions or lack of practitioners' skills in interpreting the provided information. The synthesis of MOOC practitioners from both engineering and nonengineering disciplines may provide insights that are either globally applicable to all disciplines or specific to engineering. The results could be shaped into conceptual and technological solutions to help MOOC stakeholders (e.g., researchers, practitioners) identify potential learners facing difficulties and support them during the course process.
Investigating the effect of reverse engineering pedagogy in K‐12 robotics education
Authors: Zhong Baichang , Kang Siya , Zhan Zehui
Published: November 2020

The purpose of the study is to explore the effectiveness of reverse engineering pedagogy (REP) and forward project‐based pedagogy (FPP) in K‐12 robotics education. A two‐stage study was conducted in two secondary schools, involving a total of 169 students. Based on the experience of the pilot study (Study 1), we refined the REP and examined its effectiveness through a quasi‐experimental design in the formal study (Study 2), which included four teaching models: the Deconstruction Recovery Model, Troubleshooting Model, Element Minitrim Model, and Structural Innovation Model. Results indicated that students in the REP group performed significantly better and perceived a higher degree of compatibility and creative self‐efficacy than those in the FPP group, which is consistent with the final robotics product evaluation. However, no significant difference was found in the learning attitude towards the course. The research findings highlight the value of REP in robotics education, especially in cultivating creativity and enhance learning performance, however, it needs reasonable planning and design.
Assessing the Reliability and Acceptability of an Arabic Language Version of the Child Abuse Potential Inventory
Authors: Al Abduwani Jumana , Ahmed Mohammed Kamal , Barlow Jane
Published: November 2020

This paper presents the findings of a research study aimed at assessing the reliability and validity of an Arabic version of the Child Abuse Potential Inventory (CAPI) in Muscat, the capital of Oman. The research was carried out among a population of women attending antenatal care clinics (N = 309) and reports on the prevalence of high scores and assessment of reliability and validity of the Arabic CAPI. A sub‐sample of mothers were interviewed to explore their views about the acceptability of the tool locally.

The mean score of the Abuse Scale was 159.6 (range 26–390), which was higher than the US version (mean = 91). Internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.911) and test–retest reliability (Pearson's r = 0.89; two‐tailed p 0.00) were both high. With regard to the construct validity, the six‐factor structure of the original version was not replicated; only three factors were obtained. The interview data showed that the CAPI was easy to complete and appropriate for use in Oman.

The Arabic version of the CAPI showed a highly satisfactory internal consistency and test–retest reliability. This suggests that the Arabic version of the CAPI is a valid and reliable tool to use to assess potential for child physical abuse within Oman. These results are in concordance with other cross‐cultural versions of the CAPI.

‘Reports on the prevalence of high scores and assessment of reliability and validity of the Arabic CAPI’

Key Practitioner Messages

This research reports a first attempt to assess the psychometric properties of an Arabic version of the CAPI and use it among an Arab Muslim population.

The results indicated that the tool is culturally acceptable and appropriate within this context, that mothers are able to complete it, and that it was stable over time.

The distribution of CAPI scores showed a higher mean score and a greater proportion of mothers scoring above the original cut‐off score.
Child Abuse in the West Bank: Lessons Learnt from a Qualitative Study
Authors: Rabaia Yoke , Lynch Margaret A. , Giacaman Rita
Published: November 2020

In preparation for a survey using two international child abuse screening tools (ICAST‐P for parents and ICAST‐R for young people), a qualitative study explored the use of discipline and the understanding of child abuse, including sexual abuse, in Palestinian West Bank society, and investigated the appropriateness, in relation to clarity, acceptability and relevance, of the instruments. Qualitative research teams conducted 30 in‐depth interviews with mothers (10), young men (10) and young women (10). Our findings indicate that in a society where sexual abuse is not openly discussed and follow‐up services may be inadequate or inaccessible, inclusion of sexual abuse questions in a survey may be inappropriate and even harmful. However, by asking respondents about sexual abuse questions, rather than asking specifically about an individual's experiences, this study initiated discussion, which acknowledged the occurrence of sexual abuse of both boys and girls in the West Bank population. The findings warrant serious attention by educational, psychological, social and legal services in Palestine. Additionally, the findings caution against administering internationally designed survey instruments in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC) before the potential implications related to cultural, social and political contexts have been carefully examined.

Key Practitioner Messages

Before administering an international child abuse screening tool, qualitative research must be conducted in order to understand the cultural context.

Sexual abuse research must include questions on both male and female exposure to abuse.

Conducting surveys on sensitive issues, such as sexual abuse, could have unforeseen negative consequences for both respondents and researchers.

Qualitative research on sensitive topics may be sufficient in demonstrating the need for social interventions.
2020 is the year of unknowns
Authors: Zacarese Lawrence M.
Published: November 2020

Six months ago, I sat down to pen my quarterly column in a mental fog, struggling to keep the days of the week straight and working on little sleep. Fast forward to today and so much has transpired that it's hard to believe it has only been half a year. In the midst of a global pandemic, societal unrest, economic uncertainty, a political divide, and vitriol, we've made it. We are still here. I would say I told you so, but that is not in my nature (insert smirking emoji). Sure, things certainly don't look like they did a year ago and we have had to adjust to some of the temporary changes on our campuses, but they are just that: temporary. If you are lucky enough to have resumed some semblance of in‐person classes for this semester, as my campus has done, it looks and feels odd.
Campus officials express dissatisfaction with COVID‐19 safety precautions on campus
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: November 2020

More than 60% of campus officials surveyed have given their institution a C grade or lower for their reopening plans, including safety precautions, in the midst of COVID‐19. That finding comes from a recent Kaplan survey, which collected responses from 300 college admissions officers to grade the efforts made by their institutions to reopen safely and effectively during the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Production and analysis of a mammalian septin hetero‐octamer complex
Authors: DeRose Barry T. , Kelley Robert S. , Ravi Roshni , Kokona Bashkim , Beld Joris , Spiliotis Elias T. , Padrick Shae B.
Published: November 2020

The septins are filament‐forming proteins found in diverse eukaryotes from fungi to vertebrates, with roles in cytokinesis, shaping of membranes and modifying cytoskeletal organization. These GTPases assemble into rod‐shaped soluble hetero‐hexamers and hetero‐octamers in mammals, which polymerize into filaments and higher order structures. While the cell biology and pathobiology of septins are advancing rapidly, mechanistic study of the mammalian septins is limited by a lack of recombinant hetero‐octamer materials. We describe here the production and characterization of a recombinant mammalian septin hetero‐octamer of defined stoichiometry, the SEPT2/SEPT6/SEPT7/SEPT3 complex. Using a fluorescent protein fusion to the complex, we observed filaments assembled from this complex. In addition, we used this novel tool to resolve recent questions regarding the organization of the soluble septin complex. Biochemical characterization of a SEPT3 truncation that disrupts SEPT3‐SEPT3 interactions is consistent with SEPT3 occupying a central position in the complex while the SEPT2 subunits are at the ends of the rod‐shaped octameric complexes. Consistent with SEPT2 being on the complex ends, we find that our purified SEPT2/SEPT6/SEPT7/SEPT3 hetero‐octamer copolymerizes into mixed filaments with separately purified SEPT2/SEPT6/SEPT7 hetero‐hexamer. We expect this new recombinant production approach to lay essential groundwork for future studies into mammalian septin mechanism and function.
NMIEDA: Estimation of distribution algorithm based on normalized mutual information
Authors: Lin Zhiyi , Su Qing , Xie Guobo
Published: November 2020

A new estimation of distribution algorithm based on normalized mutual information (NMIEDA) is proposed for overcoming the premature convergence of bivariate estimation of distribution algorithms. NMIEDA first uses normalized mutual information to measure the interaction between two variables and then generate a dependency forest model. Second, based on the concept of sporadic model building and a reward and punishment scheme in Selfish Gene, NMIEDA provides a new updating mechanism that accelerates the convergence speed. Finally, a new sampling mechanism is adopted in NMIEDA to improve the efficiency of sampling, which combines stochastic sampling, the opposition‐based learning scheme and the mutation operator. The simulation results on benchmark problems and real‐world problems demonstrate that NMIEDA often outperforms several other bivariate algorithms.
Photoelectron Spectroscopy and Structures of X−⋅⋅⋅CH2O (X=F, Cl, Br, I) Complexes
Authors: Corkish Timothy R. , Haakansson Christian T. , Watson Peter D. , McKinley Allan J. , Wild Duncan A.
Published: November 2020

A combined experimental and theoretical approach has been used to investigate X−⋅⋅⋅CH2O (X=F, Cl, Br, I) complexes in the gas phase. Photoelectron spectroscopy, in tandem with time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry, has been used to determine electron binding energies for the Cl−⋅⋅⋅CH2O, Br−⋅⋅⋅CH2O, and I−⋅⋅⋅CH2O species. Additionally, high‐level CCSD(T) calculations found a C2v minimum for these three anion complexes, with predicted electron detachment energies in excellent agreement with the experimental photoelectron spectra. F−⋅⋅⋅CH2O was also studied theoretically, with a Cs hydrogen‐bonded complex found to be the global minimum. Calculations extended to neutral X⋅⋅⋅CH2O complexes, with the results of potential interest to atmospheric CH2O chemistry.
Genetic analysis of end‐use quality traits in wheat
Authors: Zhang Guorong , Chen Richard Y. , Shao Mingqin , Bai Guihua , Seabourn Bradford W.
Published: November 2020

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a major cereal food crop in the world. End‐use quality improvement is a major objective in wheat breeding programs. ‘Tiger’ is a hard white winter wheat cultivar with excellent bread baking qualities. The objective of this study was to identify the genetic loci underlying the quality traits in Tiger. A doubled‐haploid (DH) population derived from a cross between Tiger and ‘Danby’ was grown in two environments. A total of 17 quality traits together with grain yield (GY) and stripe rust (Puccinia striiformis f. sp. Tritici) were evaluated. The population was genotyped using single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers generated through genotyping‐by‐sequencing (GBS). A linkage map was constructed with 1,507 GBS‐SNP markers that distributed over all 21 chromosomes. Most traits in this study showed normal or approximately normal distributions. Composite interval mapping analysis revealed a total of 72 quantitative trait loci (QTL), 67 for quality traits that were dispersed on all chromosomes except 3D, 5D, 6A, and 7A. Among the 67 QTL, some were novel QTL that have not been reported previously. Although many QTL were only significant in one environment, six genomic regions on chromosomes 1B, 1D, 2D, 5BL, 6B, and 6DL harbored major QTL for several important quality traits including kernel hardness (KH), grain and flour protein content (GPC, FPC), flour yield (FY), mix time (MT), mixing tolerance (MTOL), loaf volume (LV), and loaf volume regression (LVReg). At these major loci, Danby contributed favorable alleles for KH, GPC and FPC, while Tiger contributed favorable alleles for the other traits. The findings in this study will be useful for the genetic improvement of bread‐making quality in wheat.
Attitudes toward physical activity as a treatment component for adolescents with anorexia nervosa: An exploratory qualitative study of patient perceptions
Authors: Chubbs‐Payne Adam , Lee Jacqueline , Isserlin Leanna , Norris Mark L. , Spettigue Wendy , Spence Kelly , Longmuir Patricia E.
Published: November 2020

Objective

Anorexia nervosa (AN) with compulsive exercise is associated with poor treatment outcomes. This study sought to understand the attitudes of adolescents with AN from various stages of treatment, toward physical activity research practices and physical activity as a component of treatment.

Method

Seventeen adolescents 12–18 years old (15 female) with AN (10 with acknowledged history of compulsive exercise) were recruited from a Canadian Tertiary Care Hospital's Eating Disorder Program. Six inpatients, 5‐day program patients, and six outpatients treated by either the inpatient and/or day treatment program in the past 2 years completed individual, semi‐structured interviews that were audio‐recorded and transcribed. Results were analyzed deductively using qualitative techniques.

Results

Participants recognized both benefits (psychological, sociological, and physiological) and risks (trigger negative thoughts, increase competitive behavior) of implementing physical activity into acute AN treatment. Patient characteristics, such as stage of treatment and exercise history, had an impact on participants' perceptions toward physical activity in AN. Participants suggested that the ideal physical activity program would be focused on fun, individualized and progressively integrated, group‐based, and directly supported by staff. Although the majority of participants stated that they would wear an activity monitor for research purposes, concerns were voiced regarding compliance and the potential impact on eating disorder symptomatology.

Discussion

Participants overwhelmingly supported the careful implementation of structured physical activity and physical activity psychoeducation into the acute treatment of adolescents with AN. This study allows for the inclusion of patient voices in the conversation surrounding the role of physical activity in AN treatment.
A comparative study of CE‐SDS, SDS‐PAGE, and Simple Western: Influences of sample preparation on molecular weight determination of proteins
Authors: Wiesner Rebecca , Scheller Christin , Krebs Finja , Wätzig Hermann , Oltmann‐Norden Imke
Published: November 2020

The development of capillary electrophoresis, especially CE‐SDS devices, has led CE‐SDS to become an established tool in a wide range of applications in the analysis of biopharmaceuticals and is increasingly replacing its method of origin, SDS‐PAGE. The goal of this study was to evaluate the comparability of molecular weight (MW) determination especially by CE‐SDS and SDS‐PAGE. For ensuring comparability, model proteins that have little or no posttranslational modifications and an IgG antibody were used. Only a minor influence of sample preparation conditions, including sample buffer, temperature conditions, and different reducing agents on the MW determination were found. In contrast, the selection of the MW marker plays a decisive role in determining the accurate apparent MW of a protein. When using different MW markers, the deviation in MW determination can exceed 10%. Interestingly, CE‐SDS and 10% SDS‐PAGE hardly differ in their trueness of MW determination. The trueness in relation to the reference MW for each protein was calculated. Although the trueness values for the model proteins considered range between 1.00 and 1.11 using CE‐SDS, they range between 0.93 and 1.03 on SDS‐PAGE, depending on the experimental conditions chosen.
Keep accessibility central in planning for COVID‐19 mitigation
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: November 2020

If students, faculty, and staff members are back on campus this fall, your institution has no doubt taken steps to reduce the risk of COVID‐19 transmission. Check to make sure measures taken in your office and elsewhere on campus don't restrict access for individuals with disabilities.
Influence of modern plastic furniture on the fire development in fires in homes: large‐scale fire tests in living rooms
Authors: Hofmann Anja , Klippel Andrea , Gnutzmann Tanja , Kaudelka Sven , Rabe Frederik
Published: November 2020

About 80% of all fire fatalities in Germany occur because of fires in homes. It has been known for some time that modern materials (synonym for materials consisting mostly of synthetic polymers) tend to burn differently from older materials (synonym for materials consisting mostly of fibrous cellulosic substances) and it has been acknowledged that the amount of combustible plastics in homes has increased significantly over the last decades. To investigate the influence of modern furniture and ventilation conditions of fires in homes, a series of four large‐scale tests in two living rooms (LRs) with adjacent rooms (ARs) was performed by BAM and the Frankfurt fire service. Two LRs, one with older furniture and one with modern furniture, were tested twice each. Each test started with the ignition of a paper cushion on an upholstered chair. The influence of modern materials on the fire development was investigated, as well as the influence of the ventilation on the fire development. In all settings, an upholstered chair was the first burning item. Results of the test series show that fires in rooms with modern furniture develop faster than fires in rooms with older furniture. This is true for temperature development in the rooms as well as for smoke production.
Comparing machine and deep learning‐based algorithms for prediction of clinical improvement in psychosis with functional magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Smucny Jason , Davidson Ian , Carter Cameron S.
Published: November 2020

Previous work using logistic regression suggests that cognitive control‐related frontoparietal activation in early psychosis can predict symptomatic improvement after 1 year of coordinated specialty care with 66% accuracy. Here, we evaluated the ability of six machine learning (ML) algorithms and deep learning (DL) to predict “Improver” status (>20% improvement on Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale [BPRS] total score at 1‐year follow‐up vs. baseline) and continuous change in BPRS score using the same functional magnetic resonance imaging‐based features (frontoparietal activations during the AX‐continuous performance task) in the same sample (individuals with either schizophrenia (n = 65, 49M/16F, mean age 20.8 years) or Type I bipolar disorder (n = 17, 9M/8F, mean age 21.6 years)). 138 healthy controls were included as a reference group. “Shallow” ML methods included Naive Bayes, support vector machine, K Star, AdaBoost, J48 decision tree, and random forest. DL included an explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) procedure for understanding results. The best overall performances (70% accuracy for the binary outcome and root mean square error = 9.47 for the continuous outcome) were achieved using DL. XAI revealed left DLPFC activation was the strongest feature used to make binary classification decisions, with a classification activation threshold (adjusted beta = .017) intermediate to the healthy control mean (adjusted beta = .15, 95% CI = −0.02 to 0.31) and patient mean (adjusted beta = −.13, 95% CI = −0.37 to 0.11). Our results suggest DL is more powerful than shallow ML methods for predicting symptomatic improvement. The left DLPFC may be a functional target for future biomarker development as its activation was particularly important for predicting improvement.
Resource scarcity and prioritization decisions in medical care: A lab experiment with heterogeneous patient types
Authors: Brendel Franziska , Einhaus Lisa , Then Franziska
Published: November 2020

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, health care systems around the world have received additional funding, while at other times, financial support has been lowered to consolidate public spending. Such budget changes likely affect provision behavior in health care. We study how different degrees of resource scarcity affect medical service provision and, in consequence, patients' health. In a controlled lab environment, physicians are paid by capitation and allocate limited resources to several patients. This implies a trade‐off between physicians' profits and patients' health benefits. We vary levels of resource scarcity and patient characteristics systematically and observe that most subjects in the role of physician devote a relatively stable share of budget to patient treatment, implying that they provide fewer services when they face more severe budget constraints. Average patient benefits decrease in proportion to physician budgets. The majority of subjects chooses an allocation that leads to equal patient benefits as opposed to allocating resources efficiently.