bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time-dependent changes in FT4 and FT3 levels measured using mass spectrometry after an acute ingestion of excess levothyroxine in a case with hypothyroidism
Authors: Ito Yuko , Suzuki Satoru , Matsumoto Yoshiko , Ohkouchi Chiyo , Suzuki Satoshi , Iwadate Manabu , Midorikawa Sanae , Yokoya Susumu , Suzuki Shinichi , Shimura Hiroki
Published: February 2020

Background Thyrotoxicosis is common disorder among endocrine dysfunctions. It is not rare that the free thyroid hormone level exceeds the measurement range of immunoassay. Such extreme high concentration of free thyroid hormone is generally considered to be impossible to measure correctly because of changes in the balance between free hormones and binding proteins by dilution of serum. Using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), however, higher concentrations are able to be determined. Case presentation We present a case of a 21-year-old female with congenital hypothyroidism who had taken a total of 5 mg levothyroxine over three consecutive days following discontinuance of the medication for a month. Immunoassay performed three hours after the last ingestion showed that the patient’s free thyroxine (FT4) was over 100 pmol/L and her free triiodothyronine (FT3) was 24.5 pmol/L. With a temporary cessation of levothyroxine, the patient was kept for observation without any other medication. Two days after the last ingestion, FT4 was still over 100 pmol/L and FT3 was increased to 28.8 pmol/L. After an additional four days, both FT4 and FT3 levels decreased. Through this period, no thyrotoxic symptom or physical sign had appeared. We also measured FT4 and FT3 levels in her cryopreserved serum by ultrafiltration LC-MS/MS. Her FT4 level measured by LC-MS/MS on the visiting day and two days later were 160.0 and 135.5 pmol/L, respectively, indicating that the toxic dose of levothyroxine was partly changed to T3 during the two days. The FT3/FT4 ratios were revealed to be low, accounting for the patient’s benign clinical course despite temporal toxic exposure to levothyroxine. It is implied that prior discontinuation of supplementary levothyroxine increased potential thyroid hormone binding capacity as a buffer to prevent toxic T3 effect. Conclusion It was helpful to clarify the time dependent changes in free thyroid hormone levels by LC-MS/MS in discussing the clinical course in this case. Though mass spectrometry has a disadvantage in speed for routine laboratory use, its accurate measurement, particularly of levels exceeding the measurable range of the immunoassay, provides valuable information for more appropriate management of extreme thyrotoxicosis.
A mixed methods approach to exploring the moderating factors of implementation fidelity of the integrated chronic disease management model in South Africa
Authors: Lebina Limakatso , Oni Tolu , Alaba Olufunke A. , Kawonga Mary
Published: February 2020

Background Chronic care models like the Integrated Chronic Disease Management (ICDM) model are innovative strategies to improve the efficiency and quality of care for patients with chronic diseases. However, there is a dearth of studies assessing the moderating factors of fidelity during the implementation of the ICDM model. The aim of this study is to identify moderating factors of implementation fidelity of the ICDM model. Methods This was a cross-sectional mixed method study conducted in two health districts in South Africa. The process evaluation and implementation fidelity frameworks were used to guide the assessment of moderating factors on the implementation fidelity of the ICDM model. A total of 30 healthcare workers from four clinics with different levels of implementation fidelity of the ICDM model were interviewed. Linear regression and descriptive statistics were used to analyse quantitative data while qualitative data were analysed thematically. Results The median age of participants was 36.5 (IQR: 30.8-45.5), and they had been in their roles for a median of 4.0 (IQR: 1.0 – 7.3)years. The moderating factors of implementation fidelity of the ICDM model were the existence of facilitation strategies (training and clinical mentorship); intervention complexity (healthcare worker, time and space integration); and participant responsiveness (observing operational efficiencies, compliance of patients and staff attitudes). One feature of the ICDM model that was said to compromise fidelity was the inclusion of tuberculosis patients in the same stream (waiting areas, consultation rooms) as other patients with non-communicable diseases and those with HIV/AIDS with no clear infection control guidelines. Participants also suggested that poor adherence to any one component of the ICDM model affected the implementation of the other components. Contextual factors that affected fidelity included supply chain management, infrastructure and adequate staff, and balanced patient caseloads. Conclusion There are multiple (context, participant responsiveness, intervention complexity and facilitation strategies) interrelated moderating factors of the implementation fidelity of the ICDM model. Augmenting some of the elements, like supply chain management and leadership support, could further improve the degree of fidelity during the implementation of the ICDM model.
A Proposed Severity Classification of Borderline Symptoms Using the Borderline Symptom List (BSL-23)
Authors: Kleindienst Nikolaus , Jungkunz Martin , Bohus Martin
Published: February 2020

Background The Borderline Symptom List (BSL-23) is a well-established self-rating instrument to assess the severity of borderline typical psychopathology. However, a classification of severity levels for the BSL-23 is missing. Methods Data from 1.090 adults were used to develop a severity classification for the Borderline Symptom List (BSL-23). The severity grading was based on the distribution of the BSL-23 in 241 individuals with a diagnosis of BPD. Data from three independent samples were used to validate the previously defined severity grades. These validation samples included a group of treatment seeking patients with a diagnosis of BPD (n=317), a sample of individuals with mental illnesses other than BPD (n=176), and a healthy control sample (n=356). The severity grades were validated from comparisons with established assessment instruments such as the International Personality Disorders Examination, the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV, the global severity index of the Symptom Checklist (GSI, SCL-90), the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF), and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II). Results Six grades of symptom severity were defined for the BSL-23 mean score: none or low : 0-0.3; mild : 0.3-0.7; moderate : 0.7-1.7; high : 1.7-2.7; very high : 2.7-3.5; and extremely high : 3.5-4. These grades received consistent empirical support from the independent instruments and samples. For instance, individuals with a severity grade of none or low were virtually free from diagnostic BPD-criteria, had a GSI below the normative population, and a high level of global functioning corresponding to few or no symptoms. Severity grades indicating high to extremely high levels of BPD symptoms were observed at a much higher rate in treatment-seeking patients (70.0%) than in clinical controls (17.6%) and healthy controls (0.0%). The BSL-23 score that best separated treatment-seeking BPD patients and clinical controls was 1.50, whereas the clearest discrimination of BPD patients and healthy controls was found at a score of 0.64. Conclusions The grades of BPD-specific symptom severity derived from the distribution of the BSL-23 scores received consistent empirical validation from established assessments for psychopathology. Future studies should expand this validation by including additional instruments e.g., to assess self-esteem, loneliness, connectedness, and quality of life.
Fine particulate matter PM2.5 generated by building demolition increases the malignancy of breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells
Authors: Cheng Chun-Wen , Sheu Gwo-Tarng , Chou Jing-Shiuan , Wang Pei-Han , Cheng Yu-Chun , Lai Chane-Yu
Published: February 2020

Background PM2.5 is associated with increased risk of mortality for a variety of cancers and all subjects, including breast cancer in females, and lung cancer in males. This study investigates the effects of water-extracted PM2.5 on a triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell line, MDA-MB-231, by sampling suspended particulates around a building demolition site.Methods PM2.5 particles were obtained using a high-flow TISCH sampler. Being water-soluble, they were extracted from sampled filters using an ultrasonic oscillator and then freeze-dried. The heavy metal components of soluble PM2.5 particle was analyzed by ICP-MS. Cell viability was evaluated by MTT assay for cells that were exposed to PM2.5. Wound healing and transwell cell migration and invasion assays were used to measure cell motility and the invasiveness of cancer cells that had been exposed to PM2.5 into a chemo-attractant substance. Possible mechanisms of cancer malignancy were analyzed by Western blot analysis.Results The results revealed that nearby PM2.5 concentrations increased significantly during the deconstruction of buildings, and the Cd, Cu, Pb, Zn and Cr contents of soluble PM2.5 also significantly increased. Following exposure to PM2.5, the survival rate of breast cancer cells was significantly higher than that of the control group. Soluble PM2.5-treated cells also had a higher migration capacity, as determined by wound healing and transwell migration assays. The signaling pathway of FAK/PI3K/AKT proteins was more activated in PM2.5-treated cells than the control group. The data show that increased levels of Aurora B and Bcl-2 were associated with cell proliferation. Elevated levels of cathepsins D, β-catenin, N-cadherin, vimentin and MMP-9 were associated with breast cancer cell metastasisConclusion Soluble PM2.5 that is generated in building demolition may have a role in the promotion/progression of surviving in TNBC cells, increasing the malignancy of breast cancer. The prevention of environmental PM2.5 from deconstruction is strongly recommended.
The Importance of Patient Engagement to Quality of Breast Cancer Care and Health-Related Quality of Life: A Cross-Sectional Study among Rural and Urban Latina Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Bonilla Jackie , Escalera Cristian , Santoyo-Olsson Jasmine , Samayoa Cathy , Ortiz Carmen , Stewart Anita L. , Napoles Anna Maria
Published: February 2020

Background: Compared to their white counterparts, Latina breast cancer survivors experience poorer quality of care and worse health-related quality of life. Limited English proficiency (LEP) and patient engagement in cancer care could help explain these disparities. We assessed associations of LEP status and difficulty engaging with physicians with self-reported quality of breast cancer care and health-related quality of life among rural and urban Latina breast cancer survivors. Methods: Analyses used cross-sectional baseline survey data from two studies that tested a stress management program among rural and urban Latina breast cancer survivors in California. Medical information was collected through medical records review. Linear regression models examined bivariate and multivariate associations of LEP status (yes or no), difficulty engaging with doctors (asking questions and participating in treatment decisions) (1-4; higher score=greater difficulty), and rural versus urban site, on quality of breast cancer care and information and on physical and emotional well-being (health-related quality of life), controlling for demographic and medical factors. Results: The total sample included 304 women (151 from urban and 153 from rural sites). Mean age was 52.7 years (SD 10.9). Most were limited English proficient (84.5%) and had less than a high school education (67.8%). Difficulty engaging with doctors was inversely associated with patient ratings of quality of breast cancer care and information (B = - 0.190, p=0.014), emotional well-being (B = -1.866, p <0.0001), and physical well-being (B = -1.272, p = 0.002), controlling for demographic and treatment factors. Having LEP (vs. not; B = 1.987, p = 0.040) was independently associated with physical well-being only. Rural/urban status was not related independently to any outcome.Conclusions: Rural and urban Latina breast cancer survivors who report greater difficulty engaging with physicians experienced worse quality of breast cancer care and health-related quality of life. Promoting greater engagement of Latina breast cancer survivors in cancer care and providing medical interpreters when needed could improve patient outcomes among this vulnerable group.
Sialic acid-binding lectin-modified fructose-coated nanoparticles: a promising targeted therapeutic synthetic for breast cancers
Authors: He Lin , Zhang Biyuan , Song Yuhua , Wang Haiji
Published: February 2020

Background: Sialic acid-binding lectin (cSBL) specifically kills tumor cells rather than healthy cells. Glycopolymer-coated nanoparticles are selectively ingested by tumor cells because they can interact with the enriched carbohydrate receptors located on the surface of tumor cells. In this context, we synthesized cSBL-modified fructose-coated nanoparticles (LMFN) and cSBL-modified glucose-coated nanoparticles (LMGN) to investigate their anticancer activity in various molecular subtypes of breast cancer cell lines. Methods: The syntheses of fructose-coated nanoparticles and glucose-coated nanoparticles were based on the chemicals of 1,2:4,5-di- O -isopropylidene- β -d-fructopyranose and 1,2:4,5-di- O -isopropylidene- β -d-glucopyranose, respectively. The carbodiimide-based method was employed to synthesize LMFN and LMGN. The antitumor mechanism was explored by cell cycle analysis with flowcytometry and the antitumor activity was assessed by cytotoxicity assay and multiple drug effects analysis. Results: The cytotoxicity assay showed that LMFN had robust antitumor activity against all breast cancer phenotype cell lines whereas LMGN was rarely efficacious to against human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive/overexpression (HER2+/overexpression) breast cancer cells. The intrinsic reason for these findings was that the overexpression of fructose transporter, GLUT5, was observed in all breast cancer subtype cell lines but only a paucity of glucose transporter, GLUT1, was expressed in HER2+/overexpression breast cancer cell lines that dampened the uptake of LMGN to these cells. The cell cycle analysis indicated that the anticancer activity of LMFN was achieved by arresting cell cycle in S phase. The multiple drug effects analysis suggested the synergistic effect in the combinations of LMFN and tamoxifen to kill estrogen receptor+ breast cancer cells and LMFN and trastuzumab to kill HER2+/overexpressed breast cancer cells. Conclusion: Our work pinpoints that LMFN may be a new-onset selection for molecularly targeted therapy of breast cancers and paves the way for establishing its clinical application in the future.
Prevalence of Zika virus neutralizing antibodies in healthy adults in Vietnam during and after the Zika virus epidemic season: a longitudinal population-based survey
Authors: Nguyen Co Thach , Moi Meng Ling , Le Thi Quynh Mai , Nguyen Thi Thu Thuy , Vu Thi Bich Hau , Nguyen Hai Tuan , Pham Thi Thu Hang , Le Thi Hien Thu , Nguyen Le Manh Hung , Ly Minh Huong Phu , Ng Chris Fook Sheng , Takemura Taichiro , Morita Kouichi , Hasebe Futoshi
Published: February 2020

Background: Between 2016 and 2019, 265 cases of Zika virus (ZIKV) infection were reported in Vietnam, predominantly in southern Vietnam. In 2016, a case of ZIKV-associated microcephaly was confirmed in the Central Highlands, and several members of the infant’s family were confirmed to be infected with ZIKV. However, data on the seroprevalence of ZIKV antibodies in the general population is limited. The purpose of this survey was to determine the level of immunity to ZIKV in the general population of the ZIKV epidemic region.Methods: A total of 879 serum samples were collected from 801 participants between January 2017 and July 2018, during and after the ZIKV epidemic in Vietnam. The samples were tested for anti-ZIKV immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG), and anti-dengue virus (DENV) IgG antibodies using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Plaque-reduction neutralization test (PRNT) for ZIKV was performed on all samples, and for DENV on the samples that ZIKV neutralizing antibody positive.Results: A total of 83 (10.3%) participants had anti-ZIKV IgM. Of the 83, 6 were confirmed to be ZIKV positive using PRNT and anti-ZIKV IgG ELISA. Of the 718 participants who were anti-ZIKV IgM negative, a further 3 cases were confirmed to be ZIKV positive. Of the 9 participants with ZIKV infection, 5 lived in the same village as the infant with ZIKV-associated microcephaly and the other 4 lived in 2 neighboring communes. Repeat samples were collected from the 83 ZIKV IgM positive participants 1.5 years after the first collection. No new cases of ZIKV infection were detected. In addition, 2 of 3 participants with anti-ZIKV NS1 IgG demonstrated a 4- to 8-fold increase in ZIKV neutralizing antibody titer.Conclusion: ZIKV was present in the area around Krong Buk since at least 2016. While the low levels of circulation together with low seroprevalence suggests a limited outbreak in the region, the results also reflect on low levels of protective immunity to Zika within the population. These results provide a better understanding of the current ZIKV epidemic status in the region and demonstrate a need for implementation of more effective ZIKV infection control measures.
The isolation and characterisation of equine bone marrow stem cell derived extracellular vesicles – evidence of an anti-inflammatory action on chondrocytes.
Authors: Hotham William Edward , Thompson Charlotte Hannah , Newell Karin , Szu-Ting Lin , Henson Frances
Published: February 2020

Background Osteoarthritis (OA) in the horse is an economic and welfare issue and there are no current disease modifying drugs available. Stem cells have been suggested as potential therapeutics for OA, originally on the basis of their regenerative capacity. However, it is now hypothesised that MSCs exert their effects via paracrine factors including the production of extracellular vesicles, that can themselves recapitulate the MSC effects in the joint. Results In this study we have, for the first time, isolated and characterised extracellular vesicles from equine bone marrow stem cells. We have shown these vesicles can be taken up by autologous chondrocytes and have anti-inflammatory effects on gene expression following chondrocyte exposure to tissue necrosis factor α and Interleukin 1β. No effects on chonodrocyte proliferation or migration was observed. Conclusion Extracellular vesicles can be isolated from equine bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, they are taken up by chondrocytes and have an anti-inflammatory action.
Evaluation of RNA Purification Methods by Using Different Blood Stabilization Tubes: Identification of Key Features for Epidemiological Studies
Authors: Avila Jose Antonio Carrillo , García Raul de la Puente , Carmona Purificación Catalina , García Juan David Rejon , Espín-Vallejo Laura , Gomez Veronica Valdivieso , Aguilar-Quesada Rocio
Published: February 2020

Objetive Peripheral Blood is the most promising source of RNA biomarkers for diagnostic and epidemiological studies, because the presence of disease and prognostic information is reflected in the gene expression pattern. Quality RNA is used by a number of different downstream applications, so the selection of the most appropriate RNA stabilization and purification method is important. We have analyzed the RNA purified from 300 blood samples from 25 donors processed by two technicians using three methodologies with Tempus and PaxGene tubes. Results The best quality sample results were obtained with the Tempus Spin RNA Isolation Kit and the PaxGene Blood miRNA Kit, although larger amounts of RNA were obtained with the Tempus Spin RNA Isolation Kit. Lower Cq values were observed for RNA and miRNA genes in samples that were tested with PaxGene Blood miRNA Kit and Tempus Spin RNA Isolation Kit respectively. We identify the Tempus Spin RNA Isolation Kit as the most robust methodology, whilst the MagMax for Stabilized Blood Tubes RNA Isolation Kit showed the most instability. For biobanks, which process a large cohort and conduct epidemiological studies, the Tempus Spin RNA Isolation Kit is the most appropriate methodology. The study demonstrates the robustness of real-life procedures.
An investigation of genetic polymorphisms in Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycan core proteins and key modification enzymes in an Australian Caucasian multiple sclerosis population
Authors: Okolicsanyi Rachel K , Bluhm Julia , Miller Cassandra , Griffiths Lyn R , Haupt Larisa M
Published: February 2020

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory demyelinating disease affecting the central nervous system in young adults. Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) are ubiquitous to the cell surface and the extracellular matrix. HSPG biosynthesis is a complex process involving enzymatic attachment of heparan sulfate (HS) chains to a core protein. HS side chains mediate specific ligand and growth factor interactions directing cellular processes including cell adhesion, migration and differentiation. Two main families of HSPGs exist, the syndecans (SDC1-4) and glypicans (GPC1-6). The SDCs are transmembrane proteins, while the GPC family are GPI-linked to the cell surface. SDC1 has well-documented interactions with numerous signalling pathways. Genome wide association studies (GWAS) have identified regions of the genome associated with MS including a region on chromosome 13 containing GPC5 and GPC6. International studies have revealed significant associations between this region and disease development. Exostosin-1 (EXT1) and sulfatase-1 (SULF1) are two enzymes responsible for the generation of HS chains. EXT1, with documented tumour suppressor properties, is involved in initiation and polymerisation of the growing HS chain. SULF1 removes 6- O -sulfate groups from HS chains, thereby affecting protein-ligand interactions and subsequent downstream signalling with HS modification potentially having significant effects on MS progression. In this study we identified significant associations between single nucleotide polymorphisms in SDC1, GPC5 and GPC6 and MS in an Australian Caucasian case control population. Further significant associations in these genes were identified when the population was stratified by sex and disease subtype. No association was found for EXT1 or SULF1.
Bioinformatics Combined with Quantitative Proteomics Analyses and Identification of Potential Biomarkers in Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Da Zijian , Gao Long , Su Gang , Yao Jia , Fu Wenkang , Zhang Jinduo , Zhang Xu , Pei Zhaoji , Yue Ping , Bai Bing , Lin Yanyan , Meng Wenbo , Li Xun
Published: February 2020

Background Cholangiocarcinoma(CCA)is an invasive malignancy arising from biliary epithelial cells; it is the most common primary tumour of the bile tract and has a poor prognosis. The aim of this study was to screen prognostic biomarkers for CCA by integrated multiomics analysis. Methods The GSE32225 dataset was derived from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and comprehensively analysed by using R software and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database to obtain the differentially expressed RNAs (DERNAs) associated with CCA prognosis. Quantitative isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) proteomics was used to screen differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) between CCA and nontumour tissues. Through integrated analysis of DERNA and DEP data, we obtained candidate proteins APOF, ITGAV and CASK, and immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression of these proteins in CCA. The relationship between CASK expression and CCA prognosis was further analysed. Results Through bioinformatics analysis, 875 DERNAs were identified, of which 10 were associated with the prognosis of the CCA patients. A total of 487 DEPs were obtained by using the iTRAQ technique. Comprehensive analysis of multiomics data showed that CASK, ITGAV and APOF expression at both the mRNA and protein levels were different in CCA compared with nontumour tissues. CASK was found to be expressed in the cytoplasm and nucleus of CCA cells in 38 (45%) of 84 patients with CCA. Our results suggested that patients with positive CASK expression had significantly better overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) than those with negative CASK expression. Univariate and multivariate analyses demonstrated that negative expression of CASK was a significantly independent risk factor for OS and RFS in CCA patients. Conclusions CASK may be a tumour suppressor; its low expression is an independent risk factor for a poor prognosis in CCA patients, and so it could be used as a clinically valuable prognostic marker.
Identification of a three-long noncoding RNA prognostic model involved competitive endogenous RNA in kidney renal clear cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Di , Hu Xiaopeng , Zeng Song
Published: February 2020

Background: Lone noncoding RNA (lncRNA) is generally identified as competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) that plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC), the most common subtype of renal cell carcinoma with poor prognosis and unclear pathogenesis. This study established a novel ceRNA network and thus identified a three-lncRNA prognostic model in KIRC patients. Methods: Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened out from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The lncATLAS was applied to determine the differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs) located in the cytoplasm. The miRcode, miRDB, miRTarBase, and TargetScan databases were utilized to predict the interactions of DElncRNAs, DEmiRNAs, and DEmRNAs. Cytoscape was used to construct the ceRNA network. Then, a lncRNA prognostic model (LPM) was constructed based on ceRNA-related lncRNA that was significantly related to overall survival (OS), and its predictive ability was evaluated. Moreover, an LPM-based nomogram model was constructed. The significantly different expression of genes in the LPM was validated in an independent clinical cohort (N=21) by quantitative RT-PCR. Results: A novel ceRNA regulatory network, including 73 lncRNAs, 8 miRNAs, and 21 mRNAs was constructed. Functional enrichment analysis indicated that integral components of membrane and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway represented the most significant GO terms and pathway, respectively. The LPM established based on three lncRNAs (MIAT, LINC00460, and LINC00443) of great prognostic value from the ceRNA network was proven to be independent of conventional clinical parameters to differentiate patients with low or high risk of poor survival, with the AUC of 1-, 5- and 10-year OS were 0.723, 0.714 and 0.826 respectively. Furthermore, the nomogram showed a better predictive value in KIRC patients than individual prognostic parameters. The expression of MIAT and LINC00460 was significantly upregulated in the KIRC samples, while the expression of LINC00443 was significantly downregulated compared with the adjacent normal samples in the clinical cohort, TCGA, and GTEx. Conclusion: This LPM based on three-lncRNA could serve as an independent prognostic factor with a tremendous predictive ability for KIRC patients, and the identified novel ceRNA network may provide insight into the prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets of KIRC.
Active and inactive forms of biotin synthase occur in Heterodera glycines
Authors: Kwon Khee Man , Bekal Sadia , Domier Leslie L. , Lambert Kris N.
Published: February 2020

Heterodera glycines, the soybean cyst nematode (SCN), is a plant-parasitic nematode capable of manipulating host plant biochemistry and development. Many studies have suggested that the nematode has acquired genes from bacteria via horizontal gene transfer events (HGTs) that have the potential to enhance nematode parasitism. A recent allelic imbalance analysis identified two candidate virulence genes, which also appear to have entered the SCN genome through HGTs. One of the candidate genes, H. glycines biotin synthase (HgBioB), contained sequence polymorphisms between avirulent and virulent inbred SCN strains. To test the function of these HgBioB alleles, a complementation experiment using biotin synthase-deficient Escherichia coli was conducted. Here, we report that avirulent nematodes produce an active biotin synthase while virulent ones contain an inactive form of the enzyme. Moreover, sequencing analysis of HgBioB genes from SCN field populations indicates the presence of diverse mixture of HgBioB alleles with the virulent form being the most prevalent. We hypothesize that the mutations in the inactive HgBioB allele within the virulent SCN could result in a change in protein function that in some unknown way bolster its parasitic lifestyle.
Meloidogyne aegracyperi n. sp. (Nematoda: Meloidogynidae), a root-knot nematode parasitizing yellow and purple nutsedge in New Mexico
Authors: Eisenback J. D. , Holland L. A. , Schroeder J. , Thomas S. H. , Beacham J. M. , Hanson S. F. , Paes-Takahashi V. S. , Vieira P.
Published: February 2020

Meloidogyne aegracyperi n. sp. is described from roots of purple nutsedge in southern New Mexico, USA. Mature females are small (310–460 µm), pearly white, with their egg masses completely contained inside root galls. The neck is often at a 90 to 130° angle to the protruding posterior end with the perineal pattern. The distance of the dorsal esophageal gland orifice (DGO) to the base of the stylet is relatively long (4.0–6.1 µm), and the excretory pore is level with the base of the stylet. The anterior portion of the rounded lumen lining of the metacorpus contains 3 to 10 small vesicles. The perineal pattern has a rounded dorsal arch with a tail terminal area that is smooth or marked with rope-like striae. Only two males were found. The body twists 90° throughout its length. The DGO to the base of the stylet is long (3.0–3.3) µm. The cephalic framework of the second-stage juvenile is weak, and the stylet is short (10.1–11.8 µm). The DGO to the base of the stylet is long (3–5 µm). The tail is very long (64–89 µm) and the hyaline portion of the tail is very narrow, making the tail finely pointed. Eggs are typical for the genus and vary in length (85.2–99.8 µm) and width (37.1–48.1 µm), having a L/W ratio of (2.1–2.6). Maximum likelihood phylogenetic analyses of the different molecular loci (partial 18S rRNA, D2-D3 of 28S rRNA, internal transcribed spacer (ITS) rRNA, cytochrome oxidase subunit II (COII)-16S rRNA of mitochondrial DNA gene fragments and partial Hsp90 gene) placed this nematode on an independent branch in between M. graminicola and M. naasi and a cluster of species containing M. chitwoodi. M. fallax, and M. minor. Greenhouse tests showed that yellow and purple nutsedge were the best hosts, but perennial ryegrass, wheat, bentgrass, and barley were also hosts.
A loop-mediated isothermal amplification assay for the plant-parasitic nematode Aphelenchoides besseyi in rice seedlings
Authors: Yang Jiue-in , Yu Guan-yi
Published: February 2020

Aphelenchoides besseyi is a seed-borne plant-parasitic nematode pathogen that causes rice white-tip disease worldwide. For quarantine purposes at custom border inspection and in field surveillance, a rapid, highly specific, and sensitive loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay for the nematode detection was developed. The assay targets the sequence variable region of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene of the nematode. It is capable of distinguishing the A. besseyi rice pathotype from the closely related A. besseyi nest fern pathotype. The assay is highly sensitive, with the detection minimum limit at 103 copy numbers/µl cloned target plasmid or a single nematode crude DNA. A minimum of 35 min is needed for the assay to complete, and the detection results can be rapidly determined by the color change of hydroxynaphathol blue dye or by the indication bar on a specific lateral flow dipstick. The application potential of this assay on rice seeding was demonstrated at the sensitivity level of five nematodes in single rice seedling. This is the first LAMP assay for A. besseyi rice race detection using a mitochondria gene as marker. This assay is well-suited for phytosanitary examination and seedling screening purposes in nurseries.
A COI DNA barcoding survey of Pratylenchus species in the Great Plains Region of North America
Authors: Ozbayrak Mehmet , Todd Tim , Harris Timothy , Higgins Rebecca , Powers Kirsten , Mullin Peter , Sutton Lisa , Powers Thomas
Published: February 2020

Pratylenchus species are among the most common plant parasitic nematodes in the Great Plains Region of North America. Our goal was to survey Pratylenchus species diversity across the Great Plains region using a mitochondrial COI DNA barcode. The objectives were to (i) determine species boundaries of the common Pratylenchus species within the region, (ii) assess the host associations of the barcoded Pratylenchus specimens, and (iii) determine Pratylenchus distribution patterns throughout the region. A total of 860 soil samples, primarily associated with eight major crops, were collected from Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, and Wyoming. From this total, 246 soil samples provided the majority of 915 individual nematode specimens that were amplified by PCR and sequenced for a 727 to 739 bp region of COI. Maximum likelihood, neighbor-joining, and Bayesian phylogenetic trees all recognized 19 distinct and well-supported haplotype groups. The most common and widespread haplotype group, representing 53% of all specimens was P. neglectus, detected from 178 fields in 100 counties and associated with fields growing wheat, corn, dry beans, barley, alfalfa, sugar beets, potatoes, and a vineyard. The second most prevalent haplotype group was P. scribneri, representing 30% of all specimens and recovered from 104 fields in 45 counties, and most frequently associated with corn. Mixed field populations were encountered in approximately 20% of infested fields, with P. neglectus and P. scribneri most often occurring together in corn-soybean cropping systems. Less frequently encountered from the region were P. hexincisus, P. thornei, P. penetrans, P. alleni, and P. zeae. Eight additional haplotype groups, potentially new Pratylenchus species, were discovered in the survey.
Impact of a conservation agriculture system on soil characteristics, rice yield, and root-parasitic nematodes in a Cambodian lowland rice field
Authors: Suong Malyna , Chapuis Elodie , Leng Vira , Tivet Florent , Waele Dirk De , Thị Huế Nguyễn , Bellafiore Stéphane
Published: February 2020

Rice production in Southeast Asia is significantly affected by root-parasitic nematodes (RPN). The Green Revolution has encouraged new agricultural practices (e.g. intensive monoculture, high yielding rice variety) to respond to the high rice demand; however, these methods have promoted the spread of these pests. The recent banning of chemical nematicides resulted in a need for alternative sustainable control strategies. In the present study, we assessed the effects of a direct-seeding mulch-based cropping system (DMC) vs conventional plough-based tillages (CT) on soil properties, rice yield and RPN communities during a two-year trial in Cambodia. Our results show that on average the population densities of RPN were significantly higher in DMC than in CT. Molecular identification revealed only two RPN species associated with roots: Meloidogyne graminicola, not previously reported from Cambodia, was predominant and was present throughout the plant’s development, whereas Hirschmanniella mucronata was only found at the tillering and milky stages. We conclude that DMC had a significant positive impact on rice yield, despite higher RPN short-term pressure. In order to increase the efficiency of such cropping systems, further studies and an evaluation of the long-term relationships between DMC, the nature of cover crops used, the soil biota including RPN, and rice yield should be conducted.
Fast simulation of detector effects in Rivet
Authors: Buckley Andy , Kar Deepak , Nordström Karl
Published: February 2020

We describe the design and implementation of detector-bias emulation in the Rivet MC event analysis system. Implemented using C++ efficiency and kinematic smearing functors, it allows detector effects to be specified within an analysis routine, customised to the exact phase-space and reconstruction working points of the analysis. A set of standard detector functions for the physics objects of Runs 1 and 2 of the ATLAS and CMS experiments is also provided. Finally, as jet substructure is an important class of physics observable usually considered to require an explicit detector simulation, we demonstrate that a smearing approach, tuned to available substructure data and implemented in Rivet, can accurately reproduce jet-structure biases observed by ATLAS.
Corporate governance mechanism and risk disclosure by Islamic banks in Indonesia
Authors: Mukhibad Hasan , Nurkhin Ahmad , Rohman Abdul
Published: February 2020

The disclosure of risk by Islamic banks is very important, as this openness of information is emphasized in Islamic teachings. The purpose of this article is to provide empirical evidence regarding the influence of the number of members of the Sharia Supervisory Board (SSB) and their cross membership, the debt and the Syirkah fund ratio (investment accounts), the composition of the board of commissioners, the number of audit committee members, and the amount of assets on risk disclosure by Indonesian Islamic banks. The study uses content analysis techniques to measure risk disclosure by Islamic banks. The analysis uses panel data regression with observations for the period of 2010–2017. Based on the Fixed Effect Model, the study found out that the number of SSB members, the cross memberships of SSB, the ratio of independent commissioners to the number of audit committees do not influence risk disclosure. The leverage to investment account ratio does not influence risk disclosure. Also, the results of this study demonstrate that only the amount of assets influences risk disclosure.
Implementing SDG to Village Level by Integrating Social Capital Theory and Value Chain: (Case of Village Tourism Pentingsari in Yogyakarta, Indonesia)
Authors: Affandi Roseno Aji , Permana Aditya , Yani Yanyan Mochamad , Mursitama Tirta Nugraha
Published: February 2020

Since the publication of the 2030 blueprint, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have been promoted as a global project. Many steps have been taken; however, until now, the achievement remains limited. This is due to the low understanding of SDGs from stakeholders at the local level, such as the village. This study examines how we can develop SDG awareness and implementation in the village level. This article argues that we need to look at two essential factors namely the notion of social capital and value chain management in order to fulfill SDGs at the local level. Arguably, social capital can be mobilized by the local leaders to socialize the importance of SDGs at the village level. Second, value chain management enables local leaders to manage sustainable economic activities at the village level. Hence, these two concepts eventually enhance the implementation of SDGs at the village level. This argument will be illustrated in the case of three tourism village development areas in Yogyakarta namely, Pentingsari in Sleman, Mangunan in Bantul, and Bleberan in Gunungkidul.
The efficiency of a flocculent consisting of saw dust and bentonite clay in the removal of Fe and Ni from AMD
Authors: Ntwampe I. O. , Mthembu R.
Published: February 2020

Sets of experiments were conducted by pouring 200 mL of synthetic acid mine drainage (AMD) into five 500 mL glass beakers, dosed with varying quantities of bentonite clay and saw dust interchangeably, mixed at 250 and 100 rpm for 2 and 10 mns respectively. The samples settled for 1 hour after which the pH, concentration, oxidation reduction potential (ORP) and percentage removal of heavy metals were measured. The results show that the removal efficiency of a flocculent on Ni and Fe is effective. The results show that saw dust does not affect the conductivity of a solution. The ORP of the samples with a flocculent with increasing bentonite clay exhibits a higher rate oxidation than that of a flocculent with increasing saw dust. The crystal morphology of the SEM micrographs with 1.5 g bentonite clay and 1.5 g saw dust show three types of structures, i.e. round flocs, elongated and clustered agglomerates which is indicative of high sorption capacity.
Aroma de café: Economía y empresas cafeteras en la Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta
Authors: Viloria De La Hoz Joaquin
Published: February 2020

En el artículo se estudia la economía cafetera de la Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta y Serranía de Perijá, así como las actividades empresariales que surgieron en torno a esta actividad, desde finales del siglo XIX hasta principios del siglo XXI. El estudio muestra los orígenes del cultivo del café en el Caribe colombiano, destacando tres haciendas y varios los pioneros de la caficultura regional. Una parte considerable de esa colonización iniciada a finales del siglo XIX en la Sierra Nevada y Serranía de Perijá, fue adelantada por empresarios y familias extranjeras, ubicados mayoritariamente en la vertiente Norte de la Sierra Nevada. Haciendas como Jirocasaca, La Victoria y Cincinnati son estudiadas en este artículo con cierta profundidad, así como algunos pioneros del cultivo como Pedro Cothinet, Joaquín de Mier, Francois Dangond, Orlando Flye y las familias Opdenbosch y Weber. Los casos estudiados en este artículo se enmarcan dentro de los postulados teóricos de la historia empresarial (business history y entrepreneurial history), que tienen su origen en la década de 1920 en las universidades de Estados Unidos.   Palabras clave: Café, Empresarios cafeteros, Haciendas cafeteras, Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Serranía del Perijá
Lise Öğrencilerinin Kış Sporlarına Yönelik Farkındalık Düzeylerinin İncelenmesi
Authors: Er Yusuf , Çuhadar Abdullah , Demirel Mehmet
Published: February 2020

Çalışmanın amacı lise öğrencilerinin kış sporlarına yönelik farkındalık düzeylerinin farklı değişkenlere göre incelenmesidir. Örneklem grubu; uygun örnekleme yöntemi kullanılarak Ağrı ilindeki lise öğrencilerinden gönüllük esasına dayalı olarak belirlenmiştir. Çalışmada 200 kadın (%50.0) ve 200 erkek (%50.0) olmak üzere toplam 400 lise öğrencisi katılımcı olarak yer almıştır. Verilerin analizinde katılımcıların kişisel bilgilerinin dağılımlarını belirlemek için yüzde ve frekans gibi tanımlayıcı istatistiksel yöntemler, verilerin normal dağılım gösterip göstermediğini belirlemek için verilerin çarpıklık ve basıklık değerleri kontrol edilmiştir. Ayrıca t-testi ve anova testi analizi yöntemleri kullanılmıştır (α = 0.05). Sonuç olarak lise öğrencilerinin cinsiyet, baba mesleği, aile gelir durumu ve spor yapma sıklığı değişkenkenlerine göre kış sporlarına yönelik farkındalık düzeyleri tüm alt boyutlarında anlamlı farklılıklar tespit edilmiştir.
Critical Review on the Chemical Aspects of Cannabidiol (CBD) and Harmonization of Computational Bioactivity Data
Authors: Mastinu Andrea , Ribaudo Giovanni , Ongaro Alberto , Bonini Sara Anna , Memo Maurizio , Gianoncelli Alessandra
Published: February 2020

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Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychotropic phytocannabinoid which represents one of the
constituents of the “phytocomplex” of Cannabis sativa. This natural compound is attracting growing
interest since when CBD-based remedies and commercial products were marketed. This review aims to
exhaustively address the extractive and analytical approaches that have been developed for the isolation
and quantification of CBD. Recent updates on cutting-edge technologies were critically examined in
terms of yield, sensitivity, flexibility and performances in general, and are reviewed alongside original
representative results. As an add-on to currently available contributions in the literature, the evolution
of the novel, efficient synthetic approaches for the preparation of CBD, a procedure which is appealing
for the pharmaceutical industry, is also discussed. Moreover, with the increasing interest on the therapeutic
potential of CBD and the limited understanding of the undergoing biochemical pathways, the
reader will be updated about recent in silico studies on the molecular interactions of CBD towards several
different targets attempting to fill this gap. Computational data retrieved from the literature have
been integrated with novel in silico experiments, critically discussed to provide a comprehensive and
updated overview on the undebatable potential of CBD and its therapeutic profile.
Novel Approaches to Profile Functional Long Noncoding RNAs Associated with Stem Cell Pluripotency
Authors: Zhu Yanbo , Yan Zi , Tang Ze , Li Wei
Published: February 2020

The pluripotent state of stem cells depends on the complicated network orchestrated by
thousands of factors and genes. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a class of RNA longer than 200
nt without a protein-coding function. Single-cell sequencing studies have identified hundreds of
lncRNAs with dynamic changes in somatic cell reprogramming. Accumulating evidence suggests that
they participate in the initiation of reprogramming, maintenance of pluripotency, and developmental
processes by cis and/or trans mechanisms. In particular, they may interact with proteins, RNAs, and
chromatin modifier complexes to form an intricate pluripotency-associated network. In this review, we
focus on recent progress in approaches to profiling functional lncRNAs in somatic cell reprogramming
and cell differentiation.
Glycation and Antioxidants: Hand in the Glove of Antiglycation and Natural Antioxidants
Authors: Khanam Afreen , Ahmad Saheem , Husain Arbab , Rehman Shahnawaz , Farooqui Alvina , Yusuf Mohd Aslam
Published: February 2020

The non-enzymatic interaction of sugar and protein resulting in the formation of advanced glycation end products responsible for cell signaling alterations ultimately leads to the human chronic disorders such as diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, etc. Studies suggest that AGEs upon interaction with receptors for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) result in the production of pro-inflammatory molecules and free radicals that exert altered gene expression effect. To date, many studies unveiled the potent role of synthetic and natural agents in inhibiting the glycation reaction at a lesser or greater extent. This review focuses on the hazards of glycation reaction and its inhibition by natural antioxidants, including polyphenols.