bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of leaching agent on molecularly imprinted membrane urea transport process based on polyeugenoxy acetic acid
Authors: Djunaidi M C , Wahyuni T , Lusiana R A , Widodo D S , Pardoyo
Published: October 2020

Research on membrane synthesis as a hemodialysis membrane candidate has been carried out with molecular imprinting technique using MIM (Molecularly Imprinted Membrane) based on polyeugenoxy acetic acid. Polieugenoxy acetic acid was obtained from the synthesis of eugenol derivatives. This research aims to produce a selective urea membrane based on polyeugenoxy acetic acid for hemodialysis process and to know the effect of different leaching agents in the template release in the transport test. Polyeugenoxy acetic acid that has been bound with urea was mixed with Poly Vinyl Alcohol (PVA), a crosslinking agent for Poly Ethylene Glycol Diglycidyl Ether (PEGDE), and N-Methyl 2 Pyrrolidone solvent (NMP) to form the hydrogel. The hydrogel was then dissolved by NMP to make a membrane. The process of releasing the urea template used ethanol and HCl to obtain urea MIM (Molecularly Imprinted Membrane) and transports was done to find out the difference in membrane transportability. The polymer base and urea MIM obtained were characterized using FTIR, SEM-EDX, and TGA / DTA, while urea MIM was used to transport urea, creatinine, and vitamin B12 through the transport process and was analyzed by UV-VIS spectrophotometer. The results obtained are that MIM has better transports results than NIM. The percentage of transport of urea, creatinine, and vitamin B12 by MIM membranes is 45.02%; 33.63%; 14.28%, and the percentage of transport of urea, creatinine, and vitamin B12 by NIM membranes was 43.36%; 27.42%; 9.9%. In addition, there is an influence of eluent variations (leaching agent) on the transport of urea, creatinine, and vitamin B12, where the optimum transport results are shown in washing using HCl eluents. Percentage of urea transport by membrane washed with eluent variations of HCl, Ethanol, and Aquadest was 45.02%; 40.12%; 39.17%, the percentage of creatinine transport in HCl, Ethanol, and Aquadest variations was 47.03%; 44.2%; 36.6%, and the percentage of vitamin B12 transport in the HCl, Ethanol and Aquadest variations respectively was 8.87%; 18.27%; 3.65%.
Application of coconut oil from Ben Tre Province (Vietnam) as the main detergent for body wash products
Authors: Ngan T T K , Hien T T , Quyen N T C , Anh P N Q , Nhan L T H , Cang M H , Nhat D D , Phuc N D , Bach L G
Published: October 2020

Coconut oil is considered the active ingredient as a moisturizer used by many people in tropical regions. At the same time, coconut oil can improve the symptoms of skin disorders by moisturizing and soothing the skin. A body washes formula that contains coconut oil based on the saponification process is formulated through an appropriate content survey. The combination of auxiliary substances such as detergent, foaming agent, moisturizing agent, preservative was also conducted to evaluate different concentrations. Products are assessed and visually observed for appearance, viscosity, pH value, stability, and durability when stored. The body wash formula was found to be white and pearl luster was visually observed. Products using 20% crude soap content, 5% detergent (SLES), 3% glycerin, etc. have all been tested to show good physico-chemical properties in terms of pH value and viscosity, as well as no irritation, upon skin contact. Research shows that coconut oil body wash formulas with good physico-chemical properties can be developed into new body wash cosmetic products.
Development and evaluation of shampoo products based on coconut oil source from Ben Tre Province (Vietnam)
Authors: Ngan T T K , Hien T T , Nhan L T H , Cang M H , Danh P H , Phuc N D , Bach L G
Published: October 2020

In order to enhance the use of coconut oil through its application in personal care products, shampoos formulated with simple soap act as the leading detergent with a 20% content and ingredients other commercial components such as Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate, Plantacare 2000, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, etc. A combination of 20% crude soap and a synthetic active substance synthesizing sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) 5% make up the excellent shampoo recipe with cleansing feature. Ingredients of complementary detergents, moisturizers, and smoothing softeners are supplemented with appropriate levels to improve raw soap’s disadvantages. Foamability and foam durability are selected targets to examine the influence of ingredients in the formula. The sensory elements of the product reach the set goals with an average evaluation score of about 4/5. Thereby, shampoo products penetrate the cosmetic market and attract many consumers in the future.
Hydrolysis of sorghum starch to glucose using organic acid catalyst from rosella flower extract (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.)
Authors: Riniati  , Abdulloh S H , Fauziyah R H , Istiqomaturohmah
Published: October 2020

Highly starch content in sorghum seed has a high potential raw material for the sorghum fluor to be a raw material of liquid sugar known as glucose syrup. The syrup is usually produced through enzymatically or chemically hydrolysis using a strong acid. In this study, sorghum starch is hydrolyzed chemically using a catalyst of organic acids extracted from roselle flower (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.). The goal of the study is to produce glucose syrup free from chemical agents so as generally recognized as safe (GRAS). Rosella flowers are known to contain high amounts of organic acids such as citric acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, oxalic acid, and hibiscus acid. Apart from having natural acid content, rosella flowers also contain vitamins (ascorbic acid) and are rich in natural red pigment dyes from the anthocyanins that can be an added value for the glucose syrup products. Organic acid extraction of dried rosella flowers was carried out at a temperature of 100°C for 30 minutes in a water bath and filtered. The resulting acid extract then determined the value of the total titrated acid (TTA) by the acid-base titration method. Sorghum starch is prepared by mixing sorghum flour with distilled water and then cooled at 4°C for 12 hours. Starch is obtained from the dried filtrate to obtain a water content of <14%. The starch hydrolysis process with rosella flower extract was carried out in several variations, namely the hydrolysis time of 1 - 4 hours, the TTA concentration of rosella 4 - 16%. Meanwhile, the temperature and stirring speed were fixed at 96°C and 200 rpm. The resulting glucose levels were analyzed by the spectrophotometric method. From this research, the result shows that the best sorghum starch hydrolysis condition was obtained at the addition of 16% acid extract for 180 minutes which gave 13.83% of glucose yield
Interaction of mutant PBP2a and bioactive compounds from Streptomyces with anti-MRSA activities
Authors: Laksono A , Asnani A , Iswanto P
Published: October 2020

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is the leading cause of nosocomial infections in hospitals. Treatment of MRSA infection using ceftaroline has been reported to be resistant due to mutations in the Penicillin Binding Protein (PBP)2a. In silico’s approach through virtual screening can analyze the bioactive compounds that can bind effectively to mutant PBP2a. The potential source of bioactive compounds with anti-MRSA activities is Streptomyces, which is the main antibiotic-producing bacteria. Thus, the study aimed to analyze the interactions of PBP2a/mutant PBP2a against ceftaroline and the interactions between mutant PBP2a against bioactive compounds from Streptomyces. The protein receptors were PBP2a (PDB 3ZG0) and mutant PBP2a (PDB 4CPK). The ligands used were ceftaroline (CID 9852981) as control and nine bioactive compounds produced by Streptomyces. Protein preparation and visualization used Discovery Studio, ligand preparation used Marvin, and molecular docking used Autodock4. The alignment results showed that mutant PBP2a has a more extended amino acid sequence (643 amino acids) than PBP2a (641 amino acids). The mutations that occurred in mutant PBP2a caused conformation changes in the active site of mutant PBP2a so that the interaction between ceftaroline and mutant PBP2a decreased. The virtual screening results indicated that 1-acetyl-β-carboline was the most potent compound as anti-MRSA with the lowest binding energy (-7.12 Kcal/mol) compared to ceftaroline (-6.32 Kcal/mol). The amino acids involved in the binding of 1-acetyl-β-carboline with PBP2a mutant were Ser403, Ser461, Asn464, Thr600; Ser462, Tyr446, and Ala642. This result suggests that 1-acetyl-β-carboline has better interaction with mutant PBP2a, hence might serve as a potential anti-MRSA compound.
The agronomic performance and artemisinin content of colchicine-induced polyploid genotypes Artemisia cina
Authors: Herawati M M , Pudjihartati E , Kurnia T D , Setiawan A W
Published: October 2020

Artemisinin is a secondary metabolite contained in the potential genus Artemisia as an antimalarial.Artemisia cinaBerg ex Poljakov is a species from Artemisia that grows as a weed in Indonesia and contains artemisinin. The problem is that the artemisinin content inA. cinais minimal. The efforts must be made to increase the content. Clone improvement through breeding through genetic manipulation and enhancement of technical culture are the strategies that can use to improve the artemisinin content ofA. cina. The purpose of this study was to determine the agronomic performance of nineA. cinapolyploid genotypes (genotypes A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I) obtained from polyploidy induction using colchicines. The results of this study showed that leaf area and chlorophyll content were not significantly different among genotypes. In contrast, shoot dry weight, and plant height showed that I genotype was significantly higher than other genotypes. Glandular trichomes density of genotype was more elevated than different genotypes. Genotypes F, H, I had high artemisinin content compared to other genotypes. The genotype I showed higher artemisinin weight than other genotypes.
Foraging aggressiveness determines trophic niche in a generalist biological control species
Authors: Michalko Radek , Gibbons Alastair T , Goodacre Sara L , Pekár Stano
Published: October 2020

There is a growing evidence that consistent interindividual differences in behavior, that is, behavioral types, can play an important role in key ecological processes such as predator–prey interactions, which in turn can have direct implications on biological control. Behavioral types of generalist predators may affect these interactions through individual differences in predators’ prey preferences and the breadth of predators’ trophic niches. This study examined how the multivariate nature of behavior, namely foraging aggressiveness, activity level, and risk-taking behavior, determines prey selection and trophic niche of the generalist agrobiont spider Philodromus cespitum. In laboratory experiments, we determined the repeatability of these behaviors and the preference between crickets, moths, fruit flies, and collembolans. We found that all three behaviors were moderately to strongly repeatable but there were no correlations between them, thus they did not form a behavioral syndrome. Only foraging aggressiveness influenced the prey selection of philodromid spiders and the more aggressive individuals had wider trophic niches because they incorporated prey that were more difficult to capture in their diet. In addition, more aggressive individuals killed a greater quantity of particular prey types while other prey types were killed at a similar rate by both aggressive and nonaggressive individuals. The differences in philodromids’ foraging aggressiveness, therefore, affected not only the overall prey density but also resulted in different prey community composition. As pest density and composition can both affect crop performance, further research needs to investigate how the interindividual behavioral differences of generalist natural enemies cascade down on the crops.
Pan-cancer analysis of NLRP3 inflammasome with potential implications in prognosis and immunotherapy in human cancer
Authors: Ju Mingyi , Bi Jia , Wei Qian , Jiang Longyang , Guan Qiutong , Zhang Ming , Song Xinyue , Chen Ting , Fan Jingyi , Li Xiaojuan , Wei Minjie , Zhao Lin
Published: October 2020

NLRP3 inflammasome was introduced as a double-edged sword in tumorigenesis and influenced immunotherapy response by modulating host immunity. However, a systematic assessment of the NLRP3-inflammasome-related genes across human cancers is lacking, and the predictive role of NLRP3 inflammasome in cancer immunotherapy (CIT) response remains unexplored. Thus, in this study, we performed a pan-cancer analysis of NLRP3-inflammasome-related genes across 24 human cancers. Out of these 24 cancers, 15 cancers had significantly different expression of NLRP3-inflammasome-related genes between normal and tumor samples. Meanwhile, Cox regression analysis showed that the NLRP3 inflammasome score could be served as an independent prognostic factor in skin cutaneous melanoma. Further analysis indicated that NLRP3 inflammasome may influence tumor immunity mainly by mediating tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and macrophages, and the effect of NLRP3 inflammasome on immunity is diverse across tumor types in tumor microenvironment. We also found that the NLRP3 inflammasome score could be a stronger predictor for immune signatures compared with tumor mutation burden (TMB) and glycolytic activity, which have been reported as immune predictors. Furthermore, analysis of the association between NLRP3 inflammasome and CIT response using six CIT response datasets revealed the predictive value of NLRP3 inflammasome for immunotherapy response of patients in diverse cancers. Our study illustrates the characterization of NLRP3 inflammasome in multiple cancer types and highlights its potential value as a predictive biomarker of CIT response, which can pave the way for further investigation of the prognostic and therapeutic potentials of NLRP3 inflammasome.
MEScan: a powerful statistical framework for genome-scale mutual exclusivity analysis of cancer mutations
Authors: Liu Sisheng , Liu Jinpeng , Xie Yanqi , Zhai Tingting , Hinderer Eugene W , Stromberg Arnold J , Vanderford Nathan L , Kolesar Jill M , Moseley Hunter N B , Chen Li , Liu Chunming , Wang Chi
Published: October 2020

Motivation

Cancer somatic driver mutations associated with genes within a pathway often show a mutually exclusive pattern across a cohort of patients. This mutually exclusive mutational signal has been frequently used to distinguish driver from passenger mutations and to investigate relationships among driver mutations. Current methods for de novo discovery of mutually exclusive mutational patterns are limited because the heterogeneity in background mutation rate can confound mutational patterns, and the presence of highly mutated genes can lead to spurious patterns. In addition, most methods only focus on a limited number of pre-selected genes and are unable to perform genome-wide analysis due to computational inefficiency.

Results

We introduce a statistical framework, MEScan, for accurate and efficient mutual exclusivity analysis at the genomic scale. Our framework contains a fast and powerful statistical test for mutual exclusivity with adjustment of the background mutation rate and impact of highly mutated genes, and a multi-step procedure for genome-wide screening with the control of false discovery rate. We demonstrate that MEScan more accurately identifies mutually exclusive gene sets than existing methods and is at least two orders of magnitude faster than most methods. By applying MEScan to data from four different cancer types and pan-cancer, we have identified several biologically meaningful mutually exclusive gene sets.

Availability and implementation

MEScan is available as an R package at https://github.com/MarkeyBBSRF/MEScan.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
The Open-Specimen Movement
Authors: Colella Jocelyn P , Stephens Ryan B , Campbell Mariel L , Kohli Brooks A , Parsons Danielle J , Mclean Bryan S
Published: October 2020

The open-science movement seeks to increase transparency, reproducibility, and access to scientific data. As primary data, preserved biological specimens represent records of global biodiversity critical to research, conservation, national security, and public health. However, a recent decrease in specimen preservation in public biorepositories is a major barrier to open biological science. As such, there is an urgent need for a cultural shift in the life sciences that normalizes specimen deposition in museum collections. Museums embody an open-science ethos and provide long-term research infrastructure through curation, data management and security, and community-wide access to samples and data, thereby ensuring scientific reproducibility and extension. We propose that a paradigm shift from specimen ownership to specimen stewardship can be achieved through increased open-data requirements among scientific journals and institutional requirements for specimen deposition by funding and permitting agencies, and through explicit integration of specimens into existing data management plan guidelines and annual reporting.
In Their Own Words: Alan Covich
Authors: Verdier James M
Published: October 2020

In Their Own Words chronicles the stories of scientists who have made great contributions to their fields. These short histories provide our readers a way to learn from and share their experiences. Each month, we will publish in the pages of BioScience and on our podcast, BioScience Talks (http://bioscienceaibs.libsyn.com), the results of these conversations. This history is with Dr. Alan Covich, Professor of Ecology at the Odum School of Ecology, at the University of Georgia. He is also a past president of AIBS.

Note: Both the text and audio versions have been edited for clarity and length.
ARID3A promotes the development of colorectal cancer by upregulating AURKA
Authors: Tang Jing , Yang Lirui , Li Yafei , Ning Xuelian , Chaulagain Anita , Wang Tianzhen , Wang Dong
Published: October 2020

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignant tumours, and its morbidity and mortality rates are relatively high. However, the aetiology and pathogenesis of CRC have not been clearly elucidated to date. AT-rich interaction domain 3A (ARID3A) is a member of the ARID3 family and a transcription factor that can bind to specific DNA sites to regulate gene expression. It was reported that ARID3A is involved in various biological processes and may be related to carcinogenesis. In this study, by assessing the mRNA level of ARID3A in TCGA database, we found that ARID3A expression increased in CRC tissues, and proposed that ARID3A could act as a tumour-promoting factor in the development of CRC. To verify this hypothesis, we used cell proliferation, migration and invasion assays to assess the effect of ARID3A on CRC cells. We revealed that ARID3A overexpression enhanced tumour cell proliferation, migration and invasion. ARID3A could target Aurora kinase A (AURKA) to facilitate the malignant phenotype of CRC cells, and patients with a higher ratio of AURKA and ARID3A had a better overall survival. Conclusively, this study showed that ARID3A targeted AURKA to facilitate the development of CRC. The ratio of ARID3A and AURKA could be used as a potential biomarker to predict prognosis, providing a new strategy for the diagnosis and prognosis of CRC.
Fhod3 Controls the Dendritic Spine Morphology of Specific Subpopulations of Pyramidal Neurons in the Mouse Cerebral Cortex
Authors: Sulistomo Hikmawan Wahyu , Nemoto Takayuki , Kage Yohko , Fujii Hajime , Uchida Taku , Takamiya Kogo , Sumimoto Hideki , Kataoka Hiroaki , Bito Haruhiko , Takeya Ryu
Published: October 2020

Changes in the shape and size of the dendritic spines are critical for synaptic transmission. These morphological changes depend on dynamic assembly of the actin cytoskeleton and occur differently in various types of neurons. However, how the actin dynamics are regulated in a neuronal cell type-specific manner remains largely unknown. We show that Fhod3, a member of the formin family proteins that mediate F-actin assembly, controls the dendritic spine morphogenesis of specific subpopulations of cerebrocortical pyramidal neurons. Fhod3 is expressed specifically in excitatory pyramidal neurons within layers II/III and V of restricted areas of the mouse cerebral cortex. Immunohistochemical and biochemical analyses revealed the accumulation of Fhod3 in postsynaptic spines. Although targeted deletion of Fhod3 in the brain did not lead to any defects in the gross or histological appearance of the brain, the dendritic spines in pyramidal neurons within presumptive Fhod3-positive areas were morphologically abnormal. In primary cultures prepared from the Fhod3-depleted cortex, defects in spine morphology were only detected in Fhod3 promoter-active cells, a small population of pyramidal neurons, and not in Fhod3 promoter-negative pyramidal neurons. Thus, Fhod3 plays a crucial role in dendritic spine morphogenesis only in a specific population of pyramidal neurons in a cell type-specific manner.
Knowledge and Strategy in International Litigation: A Review Essay on Hugh Thirlway’s The International Court of Justice, with Some Reference to Non-appearance
Authors: Yee Sienho
Published: October 2020

This short review essay comments on Hugh Thirlway’s outstanding short book The International Court of Justice and expresses appreciation for his expert knowledge about the International Court of Justice (the Court or ICJ) and its law and procedure. The Essay further observes that, in addition to knowledge about the Court and its law and procedure, other factors may have a great role to play in litigation strategy. As such, litigation strategy is a matter not susceptible to broad-brush commentary, but demands tough soul-searching, in the light of all relevant circumstances and of the larger goals to be pursued. This finds illustration in some non-appearance cases and normal cases before the court and other tribunals.
Feasibility Trial of a Mind–Body Activity Pain Management Program for Older Adults With Cognitive Decline
Authors: Mace Ryan A , Gates Melissa V , Popok Paula J , Kulich Ron , Quiroz Yakeel T , Vranceanu Ana-Maria
Published: October 2020

Background and Objectives

The relationship between chronic pain (CP) and cognitive decline (CD) is bidirectional among older adults. The CP–CD comorbidity can progressively worsen cognitive, physical, emotional, and social functioning with aging. We explored the feasibility and outcomes associated with 2 mind–body activity programs for CP and CD that focus on increasing walking using time goals (Active Brains) or step-count reinforced via Fitbit (Active Brains–Fitbit).

Research Design and Methods

Older adults with CP and CD participated in a nonrandomized open pilot of Active Brains (n = 6) and Active Brains–Fitbit (n = 6) followed by exit interviews. Quantitative analysis explored feasibility markers and signals of improvement on physical, cognitive, and emotional function, as well as additional program targets. Qualitative analyses were predominantly deductive and applied the Framework Method to enhance the programs and methodology.

Results

Both programs met a priori feasibility benchmarks. We found within-group improvements for pain intensity, pain-specific coping, physical function, and cognitive function in both programs. Exit interviews confirmed high satisfaction with both programs.

Discussion and Implications

Our mixed-methods data provide preliminary evidence of feasibility, showed promise for improving outcomes, and yielded critical information to further enhance the programs. We discuss “lessons learned” and future directions.
Does routine topical antimicrobial administration prevent sternal wound infection after cardiac surgery?
Authors: Magro Pedro Lamares , Sousa Uva Miguel
Published: October 2020

A best evidence topic in cardiac surgery was written according to a structured protocol. The question addressed was ‘Does routine topical antimicrobial administration prevent sternal wound infection (SWI) after cardiac surgery? Altogether >238 papers were found using the reported search, of which 11 represented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The authors, journal, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes and results of these papers are tabulated. Several different antimicrobial agents, dosages and application protocols were found in the literature. Regarding topical vancomycin use, a meta-analysis by Kowalewski et al. demonstrated a 76% risk reduction in any SWI. Collagen-gentamicin sponge application was associated with a 38% risk reduction in SWI in another meta-analysis by Kowalewski et al., which included 4 randomized control trials and >23 000 patients. Lower evidence observational studies found benefit in the use of different regimes, including: combination of vancomycin paste and subcutaneous gentamycin; combined cefazoline and gentamicin spray; isolated cefazolin; bacitracin ointment; and rifampicin irrigation. We conclude that, in light of the body of evidence available, topical antibiotic application prevents SWI, including both superficial and deep SWI. The strongest evidence, derived from 2 meta-analyses, is related to the use of gentamicin-collagen sponges and topical vancomycin. Heterogeneity throughout studies regarding antibiotic agents, dosages, application protocols and SWI definition makes providing general recommendations challenging.
Aicardi–Goutières syndrome-like encephalitis in mutant mice with constitutively active MDA5
Authors: Onizawa Hideo , Kato Hiroki , Kimura Hiroyuki , Kudo Tomoo , Soda Nobumasa , Shimizu Shota , Funabiki Masahide , Yagi Yusuke , Nakamoto Yuji , Priller Josef , Nishikomori Ryuta , Heike Toshio , Yan Nan , Tsujimura Tohru , Mimori Tsuneyo , Fujita Takashi
Published: October 2020

MDA5 is a cytoplasmic sensor of viral RNA, triggering type I interferon (IFN-I) production. Constitutively active MDA5 has been linked to autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, Singleton–Merten syndrome (SMS) and Aicardi–Goutières syndrome (AGS), a genetically determined inflammatory encephalopathy. However, AGS research is challenging due to the lack of animal models. We previously reported lupus-like nephritis and SMS-like bone abnormalities in adult mice with constitutively active MDA5 (Ifih1G821S/+), and herein demonstrate that these mice also exhibit high lethality and spontaneous encephalitis with high IFN-I production during the early postnatal period. Increases in the number of microglia were observed in MDA5/MAVS signaling- and IFN-I-dependent manners. Furthermore, microglia showed an activated state with an increased phagocytic capability and reduced expression of neurotrophic factors. Although multiple auto-antibodies including lupus-related ones were detected in the sera of the mice as well as AGS patients, Ifih1G821S/+Rag2−/− mice also exhibited up-regulation of IFN-I, astrogliosis and microgliosis, indicating that auto-antibodies or lymphocytes are not required for the development of the encephalitis. The IFN-I signature without lymphocytic infiltration observed in Ifih1G821S/+ mice is a typical feature of AGS. Collectively, our results suggest that the Ifih1G821S/+ mice are a model recapitulating AGS and that microglia are a potential target for AGS therapy.
Measures of Systemic Innate Immune Function Predict the Risk of Nosocomial Infection in Pediatric Burn Patients
Authors: Thakkar Rajan K , Devine Racheal , Popelka Jill , Hensley Josey , Fabia Renata , Muszynski Jennifer A , Hall Mark W
Published: October 2020

Critical injury-induced immune suppression has been associated with adverse outcomes. This acquired form of immunosuppression is poorly understood in pediatric burn patients, who have infectious complication rates as high as 71%. Our primary objectives were to determine if thermal injury results in early innate immune dysfunction and is associated with increased risk for nosocomial infections (NI). We performed a prospective, longitudinal immune function observational study at a single pediatric burn center. Whole blood samples from burn patients within the first week of injury were used to assess innate immune function. Nosocomial infections were defined using CDC criteria. Immune parameters were compared between patients who went on to develop NI and those that did not. We enrolled a total of 34 patients with 12 developing a NI. Within the first 3 days of injury, children whom developed NI had significantly lower whole blood ex vivo LPS-induced TNFα production capacity (434 pg/mL vs 960 pg/mL, P = .0015), CD14+ monocyte counts (273 cells/µL vs 508 cells/µL, P = .01), and % HLA-DR expression on CD14+ monocytes (54% vs 92%, P = .02) compared with those that did not develop infection. Plasma cytokine levels did not have a significant difference between the NI and no NI groups. Early innate immune suppression can occur following pediatric thermal injury and appears to be a risk factor for the development of nosocomial infections. Plasma cytokines alone may not be a reliable predictor of the development of NI.
Recording Patient Data in Burn Unit Logbooks in Rwanda: Who and What Are We Missing?
Authors: Miranda Elizabeth , Velin Lotta , Ntirenganya Faustin , Riviello Robert , Mukagaju Francoise , Shyaka Ian , Nezerwa Yves , Pompermaier Laura
Published: October 2020

Systematic data collection in high-income countries has demonstrated a decreasing burn morbidity and mortality, whereas lack of data from low- and middle-income countries hinders a global overview of burn epidemiology. In low- and middle-income countries, dedicated burn registries are few. Instead, burn data are often recorded in logbooks or as one variable in trauma registries, where incomplete or inconsistently recorded information is a known challenge. The University Teaching Hospital of Kigali hosts the only dedicated burn unit in Rwanda and has collected data on patients admitted for acute burn care in logbooks since 2005. This study aimed to assess the data registered between January 2005 and December 2019, to evaluate the extent of missing data, and to identify possible factors associated with “missingness.” All data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Fisher’s exact test, and Wilcoxon Rank Sum test. In this study, 1093 acute burn patients were included and 64.2% of them had incomplete data. Data completeness improved significantly over time. The most commonly missing variables were whether the patient was referred from another facility and information regarding whether any surgical intervention was performed. Missing data on burn mechanism, burn degree, and surgical treatment were associated with in-hospital mortality. In conclusion, missing data is frequent for acute burn patients in Rwanda, although improvements have been seen over time. As Rwanda and other low- and middle-income countries strive to improve burn care, ensuring data completeness will be essential for the ability to accurately assess the quality of care, and hence improve it.
Assessing Recognition of the Vector of Lyme Disease Using Resin-Embedded Specimens in a Lyme Endemic Area
Authors: Bron Gebbiena M , Fenelon Hannah , Paskewitz Susan M
Published: October 2020

Lyme disease (LD) is the most common vector-borne disease in the United States. To assess whether a tick bite puts someone at risk for LD, adequate tick identification skills are needed. We surveyed residents of a high LD-incidence state, Wisconsin, on their ability to distinguish ticks from insects and to identify the specimens that could transmit the LD causative agent. Surveys were conducted using resin blocks with four insects and four tick specimens embedded. About half of the participants (64 of 130) recognized all of the ticks, and 60% of those individuals chose only ticks and no insects. Younger participants (18- to 44-yr old) were more likely to identify ticks correctly compared with those 45 yr and older. Participants who agreed strongly with the statement ‘I know a lot about ticks` were also likelier to correctly identify ticks. When asked to identify which specimens could transmit LD, less than 25% of participants chose both the Ixodes scapularis Say adult female and nymph and about half of those (15% of participants) picked only those two and no other specimens. Although the relatively small convenience sample was biased toward younger participants who consider themselves ‘outdoorsy’, results showed that further assessments of tick recognition skills are needed to understand what determines whether people can recognize medically important ticks and to evaluate the potential benefits of enhanced education. In addition to the value of the resin blocks as research tools, the blocks may be useful as training tools to improve tick check efficacy.
Laryngeal epidermal inclusion cyst: report of an unusual case and literature review
Authors: Khushaim Hanan , Albaghli Slava , Al-Alsheikh Abdulmalik , Al Rikabi Ammar
Published: October 2020

The causes of dysphonia or hoarseness are numerous and can be classified as functional or organic. The report will highlight the clinical presentation, histopathological features and management plan of laryngeal epidermal inclusion cysts (EICs). Laryngeal EICs are rare. The epidermal and dermoid cysts represent only 0.01% of oral cavity cysts. Their clinical presentation varies from a completely asymptomatic presentation to dysphonia for years. This current report represents a case of a 34-year-old female who presented with 2-year history of dysphonia, which was caused by a unilateral laryngeal EIC.
Effect of leaf temperature on the estimation of photosynthetic and other traits of wheat leaves from hyperspectral reflectance
Authors: Khan Hammad A , Nakamura Yukiko , Furbank Robert T , Evans John R
Published: October 2020

A growing number of leaf traits can be estimated from hyperspectral reflectance data. These include structural and compositional traits, such as leaf mass per area (LMA) and nitrogen and chlorophyll content, but also physiological traits such a Rubisco carboxylation activity, electron transport rate, and respiration rate. Since physiological traits vary with leaf temperature, how does this impact on predictions made from reflectance measurements? We investigated this with two wheat varieties, by repeatedly measuring each leaf through a sequence of temperatures imposed by varying the air temperature in a growth room. Leaf temperatures ranging from 20 °C to 35 °C did not alter the estimated Rubisco capacity normalized to 25 °C (Vcmax25), or chlorophyll or nitrogen contents per unit leaf area. Models estimating LMA and Vcmax25/N were both slightly influenced by leaf temperature: estimated LMA increased by 0.27% °C–1 and Vcmax25/N increased by 0.46% °C–1. A model estimating Rubisco activity closely followed variation associated with leaf temperature. Reflectance spectra change with leaf temperature and therefore contain a temperature signal.
Serum Uric Acid may be Associated with Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction in Military Individuals
Authors: Tu Chung-Ming , Tseng Guo-Shiang , Liu Cheng-Wei
Published: October 2020

Introduction

We investigated the correlation and association between serum uric acid (SUA) and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) criteria in military individuals.

Material and Methods

We prospectively enrolled military individuals who visited our hospital for evaluation of electrocardiographic abnormalities detected at an annual health exam between January 1, 2018 and December 31, 2019. Hyperuricemia was defined as an SUA level ≥7 mg/dL in men and ≥6 mg/dL in women. The definitions of LVDD criteria and LV hypertrophy were according to contemporary echocardiographic guidelines.

Results

The study included 268 individuals (89% male), with a mean age of 32.9 ± 7.6 years and SUA of 6.1 ± 1.3 mg/dL. The hyperuricemic (n = 74) and normouricemic (n = 194) groups had no significant differences in lifestyle choices and baseline characteristics. Serum uric acid correlated weakly with heart size parameters (r = 0.354, P < .001 for left atrial diameter and r = 0.146, P = .017 for left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and average E/e' >14 (r = 0.204, P = .001). The hyperuricemic group had higher LVMI (87.6 g/m2 vs. 81.8 g/m2, P = .022), septal e' velocity <7 cm/s (14.9% vs. 5.2%, P = .019), lateral e' velocity <10 cm/s (27.0% vs. 11.3%, P = .003), and average E/e' >14 (4.1% vs. 0%, P = .020) values than the normouricemic group. In multivariate logistic regression analyses, SUA was significantly associated with septal e' velocity <7 cm/s (adjusted HR: 2.398; 95% CI, 1.427-4.030; P = .001).

Conclusion

Elevated SUA was significantly associated with the presence of LVDD criteria, namely, septal e' velocity <7, in military individuals. Maintaining SUA levels within normal limits may prevent the development of LVDD.
Fatal Isoniazid Hepatotoxicity in the Deployed Environment
Authors: Cybulski Daniel J , White Brian K
Published: October 2020

Deployed clinicians have limited resources at their disposal to augment medical decision-making and management. All deploying personnel undergo predeployment medical assessment to evaluate their fitness for deployment. The purpose of predeployment screening is to allow for anticipation of medical needs that may arise which could challenge the available medical resources in an expeditionary environment. Medical standards for deployment are published, identifying disqualifying conditions and medications. A history of latent tuberculosis infection is not disqualifying for deployment. Isoniazid is not specifically mentioned as a disqualifying medication, though it is well known to have the potential of causing drug-induced liver injury. Here, a case of fatal isoniazid-induced drug-induced liver injury in a deployed setting is presented with a review of current latent tuberculosis infection literature. Our goal is for the reader to form their own opinion whether or not isoniazid should be used in the forward environment.
Genomic Analysis Revealed a Convergent Evolution of LINE-1 in Coat Color: A Case Study in Water Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis)
Authors: Liang Dong , Zhao Pengju , Si Jingfang , Fang Lingzhao , Pairo-Castineira Erola , Hu Xiaoxiang , Xu Qing , Hou Yali , Gong Yu , Liang Zhengwen , Tian Bing , Mao Huaming , Yindee Marnoch , Faruque Md Omar , Kongvongxay Siton , Khamphoumee Souksamlane , Liu George E , Wu Dong-Dong , Barker James Stuart F , Han Jianlin , Zhang Yi
Published: October 2020

Visible pigmentation phenotypes can be used to explore the regulation of gene expression and the evolution of coat color patterns in animals. Here, we performed whole-genome and RNA sequencing and applied genome-wide association study, comparative population genomics and biological experiments to show that the 2,809-bp-long LINE-1 insertion in the ASIP (agouti signaling protein) gene is the causative mutation for the white coat phenotype in swamp buffalo (Bubalus bubalis). This LINE-1 insertion (3′ truncated and containing only 5′ UTR) functions as a strong proximal promoter that leads to a 10-fold increase in the transcription of ASIP in white buffalo skin. The 165 bp of 5′ UTR transcribed from the LINE-1 is spliced into the first coding exon of ASIP, resulting in a chimeric transcript. The increased expression of ASIP prevents melanocyte maturation, leading to the absence of pigment in white buffalo skin and hairs. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that the white buffalo-specific ASIP allele originated from a recent genetic transposition event in swamp buffalo. Interestingly, as a similar LINE-1 insertion has been identified in the cattle ASIP gene, we discuss the convergent mechanism of coat color evolution in the Bovini tribe.
Lichonycteris obscura(Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae)
Authors: Zamora-Gutierrez Veronica , Ortega Jorge
Published: October 2020

The dark long-tongued bat (Lichonycteris obscura Thomas, 1895) is a small-sized phyllostomid with a broad distribution from southern Mexico to both, the Pacific and Atlantic lowlands of South America. It is easily distinguished from other Glossophaginae because of its tricolored dorsal pelage with a dark basal band, well-furred elbow, lack of lower incisors, and wing membrane attached to the foot at about mid-length of the metatarsals. L. obscura is a foliage-roosting species, and primarily feeds on nectar and pollen. The species is rare because locally it occurs in low numbers. Despite the lack of information and low abundance, L. obscura is listed as a species of “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources.
ADPriboDB 2.0: an updated database of ADP-ribosylated proteins
Authors: Ayyappan Vinay , Wat Ricky , Barber Calvin , Vivelo Christina A , Gauch Kathryn , Visanpattanasin Pat , Cook Garth , Sazeides Christos , Leung Anthony K L
Published: October 2020

ADP-ribosylation is a protein modification responsible for biological processes such as DNA repair, RNA regulation, cell cycle and biomolecular condensate formation. Dysregulation of ADP-ribosylation is implicated in cancer, neurodegeneration and viral infection. We developed ADPriboDB (adpribodb.leunglab.org) to facilitate studies in uncovering insights into the mechanisms and biological significance of ADP-ribosylation. ADPriboDB 2.0 serves as a one-stop repository comprising 48 346 entries and 9097 ADP-ribosylated proteins, of which 6708 were newly identified since the original database release. In this updated version, we provide information regarding the sites of ADP-ribosylation in 32 946 entries. The wealth of information allows us to interrogate existing databases or newly available data. For example, we found that ADP-ribosylated substrates are significantly associated with the recently identified human protein interaction networks associated with SARS-CoV-2, which encodes a conserved protein domain called macrodomain that binds and removes ADP-ribosylation. In addition, we create a new interactive tool to visualize the local context of ADP-ribosylation, such as structural and functional features as well as other post-translational modifications (e.g. phosphorylation, methylation and ubiquitination). This information provides opportunities to explore the biology of ADP-ribosylation and generate new hypotheses for experimental testing.
Assessing the Relative Effectiveness of Combining Self-Care with Practitioner-Delivered Complementary and Integrative Health Therapies to Improve Pain in a Pragmatic Trial
Authors: Zeliadt Steven B , Coggeshall Scott , Gelman Hannah , Shin Marlena H , Elwy A Rani , Bokhour Barbara G , Taylor Stephanie L
Published: October 2020

Background

Many health care systems are beginning to encourage patients to use complementary and integrative health (CIH) therapies for pain management. Many clinicians have anecdotally reported that patients combining self-care CIH therapies with practitioner-delivered therapies report larger health improvements than do patients using practitioner-delivered or self-care CIH therapies alone. However, we are unaware of any trials in this area.

Design

The APPROACH Study (Assessing Pain, Patient-Reported Outcomes and Complementary and Integrative Health) assesses the value of veterans participating in practitioner-delivered CIH therapies alone or self-care CIH therapies alone compared with the combination of self-care and practitioner-delivered care. The study is being conducted in 18 Veterans Health Administration sites that received funding as part of the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act to expand availability of CIH therapies. Practitioner-delivered therapies under study include chiropractic care, acupuncture, and therapeutic massage, and self-care therapies include tai chi/qi gong, yoga, and meditation. The primary outcome will be improvement on the Brief Pain Inventory 6 months after initiation of CIH as compared with baseline scores. Patients will enter treatment groups on the basis of the care they receive because randomizing patients to specific CIH therapies would require withholding therapies routinely offered at VA. We will address selection bias and confounding by using sites’ variations in business practices and other encouragements to receive different types of CIH therapies as a surrogate for direct randomization by using instrumental variable econometrics methods.

Real-world evidence about the value of combining self-care and practitioner-delivered CIH therapies from this pragmatic trial will help guide the VA and other health care systems in offering specific nonpharmacological approaches to manage patients’ chronic pain.
Chemical composition and in vitro fermentation characteristics of legumes using canine fecal inoculum
Authors: Traughber Zachary T , He Fei , Hoke Jolene M , Davenport Gary M , de Godoy Maria R C
Published: October 2020

Legumes are a popular grain-free alternative carbohydrate source in canine diets, however, information on their fermentative characteristics have not been established. Thus, the objectives of the present study were to 1) quantify the chemical compositions and 2) fermentative profile of select legumes using canine fecal inoculum. Five legume varieties, whole yellow peas (WYP), green lentils (GL), black bean grits (BBG), navy bean powder (NBP), and garbanzo beans, were analyzed and compared to a positive control, beet pulp (BP). Substrates were analyzed for gross energy (GE), dry and organic matter, crude protein (CP), acid hydrolyzed fat, and total dietary fiber (TDF) fractions, beta-glucans, starch-free, and hydrolyzed sugars, as well as fermentative characteristics: pH, short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), branched-chain fatty acids (BCFA), total gas, hydrogen, and methane. Substrates then underwent a two-stage in vitro digestion and subsequent fermentation using canine fecal inoculum for 0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 h. All test substrates contained approximately 8% to 9% moisture and 4.5 kcal/g GE. The highest CP content was observed in GL (27%). Analyzed TDF content of test substrates was greatest for WYP (32%) and GL (36%). Total starch content was greatest for GL (58%) and WYP (56%). Sucrose and stachyose were the most predominant free sugars and glucose was the most predominant hydrolyzed sugar among test substrates. After 3 and 6 h of fermentation, a net negative change in pH was observed among most substrates with a net negative change in all substrates after 9 and 12 h. Values for SCFA did not differ among substrates after 3 or 6 h of fermentation with BP and WYP among the greatest acetate (1,656 and 1,765 umol/g, respectively) and propionate production values (157.7 and 126.1, respectively) after 9 h. All substrates produced greater total gas volumes than WYP after 3 h, with no differences observed after any other time points. However, BP hydrogen production values were greater after 9 and 12 h (P < 0.0001; 726,042 and 394,675 ng/g, respectively) with greater methane production values after 12 h (P < 0.0001; 54,291 ng/g) than all test substrates. These data suggest that legumes offer a diverse macronutrient profile and appear to be a source of slowly fermentable fiber, which may have beneficial implications on the ratios of saccharolytic to proteolytic fermentation toward the distal colon.