bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IDENTIFIKASI E. COLI O157:H7, SALMONELLA SP, DAN SENSITIFITAS ANTIBIOTIKA DARI SUSU KAMBING DAN PRODUK OLAHANNYA
Authors: Suwito Widodo , Andriani NFN , Kristiyanti Felisitas , Winarti Erna
Published: November 2019

Susu kambing dan produk olahannya dapat terkontaminasi E. coli O157:H7 dan Salmonella sp. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk isolasi dan identifikasi E. coli O157:H7, Salmonella sp, dan sensitifitasnya terhadap antibiotika dari susu kambing dan produk olahannya. Sebanyak 15 sampel susu kambing dan produk olahannya seperti susu bubuk, permen, es krim, yogurt, dan krupuk masing-masing sebanyak 10, 3, 6, 4, dan 3 sampel. Semua sampel diperiksa terhadap E. coli O157:H7, dan Salmonella sp berdasarkan reaksi biokimia. Jumlah E. coli pada semua sampel dihitung dengan most probable number (MPN), sedangkan sensitifitas terhadap antibiotika dengan agar difusi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa susu kambing dan produk olahannya tidak ditemukan E. coli O157:H7 dan Salmonella sp., tetapi E. coli non O157:H7 ditemukan pada susu kambing sebanyak 3/15 (20%) dengan jumlah >6 MPN/100ml. Semua produk olahan susu kambing memiliki jumlah E. coli <3 MPN/100ml. E. coli dari susu kambing resisten terhadap cefiksime, kanamisin, tetrasiklin, sulfonamide, dan oksitetrasiklin masing-masing sebanyak 1/3 (30%), sedangkan ampisilin dan amoksilin 100%.

 

Goat milk and dairy products could be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7 and Salmonella sp.

The purpose of this study was to isolation and identification of E. coli O157:H7, Salmonella sp, and antibiotic sensitivity from goat milk and dairy products. A total of 15 samples from goat milk and dairy products such as milk powder, candy, ice cream, yogurt, and crackers respectively 10, 3, 6, 4, and 3 samples. All samples were analyzed for E. coli O157: H7, and Salmonella sp with biochemical reaction. Total of E. coli in all samples was measured with most probable number (MPN) and antibiotic sensitivity with diffusion agar. These study showed that goat milk and dairy products not found E. coli O157:H7 and Salmonella sp., whereas E. coli non O157:H7 was found in goat milk 3/15 (20%) with total E. coli >6 MPN/100ml. All dairy goat products have total E. coli <3 MPN/100ml. E. coli from goat milk was resistant to cefixime, kanamycin, tetracycline, sulfonamide, and oxytetracycline 1/3 (30%) respectively, but ampicillin and amoxicillin 100%.
PENGARUH JENIS FERMENTOR TERHADAP MUTU BIJI KAKAO KERING NON FERMENTASI
Authors: Mulyawanti Ira , Hidayat Tatang , Risfaheri NFN
Published: November 2019

Peningkatan mutu biji kakao non fermentasi dilakukan melalui proses fermentasi menggunakan starter kering dan dua jenis fermentor, yaitu tipe kotak dan rotary drum. Biji kakao non fermentasi dibasahkan terlebih dahulu dengan direndam dalam air selama 2-3 jam, kemudian ditiriskan dan ditambah substrat yang terdiri atas fruktosa:glukosa:sukrosa:asam sitrat dengan perbandingan 62 : 41 : 32 : 22,5, ditambahkan starter kering sebanyak 3% kemudian difermentasi menggunakan kotak fermentasi, fermentor rotary drum dengan pengaturan suhu dan tanpa pengaturan suhu. Penggunaan kotak fermentasi dan fermentor rotary drum menunjukkan adanya proses fermentasi yang diindikasikan dengan terjadinya peningkatan suhu dan pH. Namun, pembentukan flavor hasil fermentasi menggunakan kotak fermentasi menunjukkan hasil yang terbaik. Kandungan asam asetat diperoleh paling tinggi melalui proses fermentasi menggunakan kotak fermentasi, begitu pula komponen volatil flavor penting lainnya seperti senyawa alkohol lebih banyak ditemui dari proses fermentasi menggunakan kotak fermentasi dibandingkan dengan rotary drum.

 

The Influences of Fermentor Type on Quality of Dried Unfermented Cocoa Bean

Increasing the quality of unfermented cocoa beans was done through fermentation process using dry starter and fermenter type rotary drum. Non fermented cocoa beans are soaked in water for 2-3 hours, then drained and added substrate consisting of fructose: glucose: sucrose: citric acid with ratio of 62: 41: 32: 22,5, added 3% dried starter then fermented using fermentation box, rotary drum fermenter 41°C and without temperature setting. The use of fermentation box and fermenter rotary drum indicate the existence of fermentation process indicated by the increase of temperature and pH. However, the formation of fermented flavor using fermentation box showed the best results. Acetic acid content was obtained by fermentation process using fermentation box, as well as other important volatile flavor components such as alcohol compounds found mostly from fermentation process using fermentation box compared with rotary drum.
Knowledge and Experiences Combined under One Hood: Lessons Learned from Peninsular Malaysia Well Abandonment Campaign
Authors: Zulkipli Siti Najmi , Saw Li Juan
Published: November 2019

Operators, regulators, industry experts and service providers had lately landed onto a common ground on the needs for a strategic late field life management focusing on well abandonment planning and execution. With increased number of depleted well strings after exhaustive attempts to unlock the remaining well potential, this topic is gaining a spotlight day by day which triggers the industry to spare their attention to find the best solutions in getting the most out of the campaign. This paper will highlight the practical experiences and capture the lessons learned obtained while executing well abandonment campaign in Peninsular Malaysia waters demonstrating a quick learning curve and agile workflow in achieving a safe and world class project execution. Some best practices will be also proposed to strengthen the technical assurance, project governance as well as enhancing the safety features.

Lessons learned gained are categorized under seven lenses namely cap rock identification and subsurface study, governance model, well and equipment preparation, perforation and cementing operation, cement bond logging and casing integrity evaluation, HSE related matters and also special topics where few examples and case studies will be presented for each. New insights, interpretation and efforts to improve the operational efficiency have led to the birth of new technology deployment, increased industrial networking for knowledge sharing and also integrated project management for cost optimization. As each abandonment campaign is unique in terms of threats and challenges, different approaches will be required to abandon the wells safely which steer the operators to be high on the learning curve and subsequently promote greater industrial collaboration.

In essence, the lessons learned and insights gained throughout abandonment campaigns will keep accumulating with time to feed into the knowledge and experience vault. With proper project documentation, many success cases and best practices can be emulated both from technical and commercial point of view.
Successful Application of an Engineered Fluid Cement Setting Base for Rigless Abandonment
Authors: Webber Claire , Mackay Alan
Published: November 2019

While abandoning a well from a light well intervention vessel (LWIV), and with no ability to run a mechanical cement-setting tool, a fluid barrier spacer was needed to provide a base for the cement. This barrier required a sufficient rheology to hold a 16.0 lb/gal cement slurry and to limit commingling of the cement and the fluid base, which could prevent the cement from setting and risk an inadequate cement barrier length required for abandonment regulations.

Two approaches were investigated: a thixotropic water-based barrier spacer and a high viscosity spacer. Laboratory testing indicated that only the thixotropic barrier spacer maintained good separation between the 13.3 lb/gal calcium chloride/calcium bromide brine (the current annular fluid) and the cement. This testing was repeated with 8.7 lb/gal seawater, and the thixotropic barrier again showed excellent separation. Neither spacer could be weighted with barite because of limited deck space; both pills were built at 8.7 ppg.

The thixotropic water-based spacer was selected for this application. The annulus was circulated to seawater, and the spacer was mixed in a cement batch tank on the vessel. This tank was then used for the cementing operations; there was no requirement to clean the tanks between mixing the cement setting spacer and the cement spacer used to cement the plug. After the pill was mixed, the tubing was punched at 4,100 ft, and a 500 ft thixotropic water-based pill was set in the annulus and outside of the punched tubing. The tubing was punched at 3,600 ft. A cement job was performed with 16 ppg cement; after the wait-on-cement time elapsed to verify the barrier, the top of cement was tagged at 2,669 ft and successfully pressure tested.

The regulatory required length of the cement barrier was successfully set with the thixotropic spacer fluid as a setting base.

The thixotropic spacer successfully demonstrated sustained separation and a viable fluid base for setting cement. The result is a reliable method to set cement. This method does not require the mobilization of mechanical cement setting tools; the use of the fluid as the cement base enabled the use of a LWIV and negated the expensive need of mobilizing rig barriers to be set in place.
Frequency of non-single canals in mandibular premolars and correlations with other anatomical variants: an in vivo cone beam computed tomography study
Authors: Jang Young-Eun , Kim Yemi , Kim Bom Sahn , Kim Sin-Young , Kim Hyung-Jong
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Background: A knowledge regarding anatomical variants is important to achieve success in endodontic treatment. Root canal treatment of mandibular first premolars (PM1s) is challenging due to the existence of numerous variations in canal configurations, including a C-shaped variant. We aim to determine the frequency and morphologic characteristics of non-single canals of mandibular first (PM1s) and second (PM2s) premolars in a Korean population using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and to evaluate correlations between non-single canals of PM1s and other anatomical variants, such as distolingual roots (DLRs) in mandibular first molars (M1s) and C-shaped canals in mandibular second molars (M2s).
Methods: A total of 971 PM1s and 997 PM2s from 500 patients were examined in vivo by CBCT. Root canal configurations and C-shaped canals were determined in accordance with the Vertucci classification and Fan classification, respectively. The correlation between non-single canals in PM1s and DLRs in M1s was evaluated using logistic regression analysis.
Results: PM2s typically had one root (99.89%) with one canal (98.4%). Among PM1s with non-single canals (21.2%), Vertucci type V (10.9%) and C-shaped (3.7%) canals were prevalent. Among C-shaped PM1 canals, the majority were Vertucci type V (77.8%); a C-shaped configuration (C2) was predominant mostly at the middle and/or apical third of the root. After adjusting for other variables (i.e., sex, age, and side), C-shaped canals in PM1s was significantly correlated with the presence of DLRs in M1s (odds ratio = 2.616; 95% confidence interval, 1.257–5.443; p = 0.010).
Conclusions: The presence of C-shaped PM1 canals was positively related to the presence of DLRs in M1s. Although C-shaped canals in PM1s are difficult to distinguish, this finding could aid clinicians in predicting C-shaped canal configurations in PM1s of patients who exhibit DLRs in M1s.
School-based nutrition interventions for Indigenous children in Canada: A scoping review
Authors: Gillies Christina , Blanchet Rosanne , Gokiert Rebecca , Farmer Anna , Thorlakson Jessica , Hamonic Laura , Willows Noreen D.
Published: November 2019

Background
Indigenous children in Canada (First Nations, Inuit, and Métis) are disproportionately affected by nutrition-related chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes. Comprehensive school-based nutrition interventions offer a promising strategy for improving children’s access to healthy foods and sustaining positive eating behaviors. However, little is known about school-based nutrition interventions for Indigenous children. The objectives of this scoping review were to identify school-based nutrition interventions for Indigenous children in Canada and describe their components.
Methods
The scoping review consisted of searches in seven peer-reviewed databases and a general web search for grey literature. Eligibility criteria were applied by two reviewers, and data were extracted and charted by one reviewer using components of the comprehensive school health approach (social and physical environment, teaching and learning, policy, partnerships and services) and additional components with relevance to Indigenous interventions (cultural content, Indigenous control and ownership, funding source, evaluation). Numerical and descriptive summaries were used to present findings.
Results
Thirty-four unique interventions met the inclusion criteria. The majority (97%) of interventions targeted the social and physical environment, most often by offering food programs. Over half of interventions also incorporated teaching and learning (56%) and partnerships and services (59%), but fewer included a policy component (38%). Many interventions included a cultural component (56%) and most (62%) were owned and controlled by Indigenous communities (62%). Finally, over half of interventions disclosed their source(s) of funding (59%), but less than half (41%) included an evaluation component.
Conclusions
The review suggests that school-based interventions for Indigenous children can be more comprehensive by incorporating culturally relevant nutrition education and professional development opportunities for teachers, written school nutrition policies, and activities that actively engage families and community members. The continued focus on Indigenous control and ownership and incorporation of content specific to individual communities may enhance cultural relevancy and sustainability of interventions. Furthermore, there is a need to increase intervention evaluation and the sharing of resources related to funding. These recommendations may be used by communities, as well as by researchers and professionals working with communities, in developing comprehensive school-based nutrition interventions to improve the eating behaviors of Indigenous children.
Association of rs780094 polymorphism of glucokinase regulatory protein with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Mohammadi Saba , Farajnia Safar , Shadmand Masoud , Mohseni Fatemeh , Baghban Roghayyeh
Published: November 2019

Objective GCK rs780094 polymorphism is a single nucleotide polymorphism that has been associated with obesity, type II diabetes and dyslipidemia in some populations, conditions that highly related to NAFL etiology. The present study aimed to evaluate the relationship between NAFLD and rs780094 polymorphism in patients with NAFLD in Tabriz city, northwest of Iran. The rs780094 polymorphism was determined in 74 patients with NAFLD by PCR-RFLP technique. Demographic information was collected using a questionnaire and biochemical analysis was performed using standard laboratory methods.Results There was a significant difference between case and control subjects for alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, HDL-C and triglycerides ( P <0.05). Analysis by PCR-RFLP method revealed that there were no significant differences between NAFLD and healthy subjects for rs780094 polymorphism in the study population. The results of this study indicated that rs780094 polymorphism is not associated with NAFLD in subjects from Tabriz city.
What Explains the Regional Variation in the Use of General Practitioners in Australia?
Authors: Mu Chunzhou , Hall Jane
Published: November 2019

Background: Regional variation in the use of health care services is widespread. Identifying and understanding the sources of variation and how much variation is unwarranted can inform policy interventions to improve the efficiency and equity of health care delivery. Methods: We examined the regional variation in the use of general practitioners (GPs) using data from the Social Health Atlas of Australia by Statistical Local Area (SLAs). 756 SLAs were included in the analysis. The outcome variable of GP visits per capita by SLAs was regressed on a series of demand-side factors measuring population health status and demographic characteristics and supply-side factors measuring access to physicians. Each group of variables was entered into the model sequentially to assess their explanatory share on regional differences in GP usage. Results: Both demand-side and supply-side factors were found to influence the frequency of GP visits. Specifically, areas in urban regions, areas with a higher percentage of the population who are obese, who have profound or severe disability, and who hold concession cards, and areas with a smaller percentage of the population who reported difficulty in accessing services have higher GP usage. The availability of more GPs led to higher use of GP services while the supply of more specialists reduced use. 30.56% of the variation was explained by medical need. Together, both need-related and supply-side variables accounted for 32.24% of the regional differences as measured by the standard deviation of adjusted GP-consultation rate. Conclusions: There was substantial variation in GP use across Australian regions with only a small proportion of them being explained by population health needs, indicating a high level of unwarranted clinical variation. Supply factors did not add a lot to the explanatory power. There was a lot of variation that was not attributable to the factors we could observe. This could be due to more subtle aspects of population need or preferences and therefore warranted. However, it could be due to practice patterns or other aspects of supply and be unwarranted. Future work should try to explain the remaining unexplained variation. Keywords : GP usage, Regional variation, Statistical Local Areas, Australia
Maternal healthcare services use in Mwanza Region, Tanzania: A cross-sectional baseline survey
Authors: Orwa James , Mantel Michaela , Mugerwa Micheal , Brownie Sharon , Pallangyo Eunice Siaity , Mwasha Loveluck , Isangula Kahabi , Subi Leonard , Mrema Secilia , Edwards Grace , Siso David , Selestine Edna , Mwansisya Tumbwene , Mbekenga Columba , Temmerman Marleen
Published: November 2019

Background Improving maternal health by reducing maternal morbidity and mortality relates to Goal 3 of the Sustainable Development Goals. Achieving this goal is supported by antenatal care (ANC), health facility delivery, and postpartum care. This study aimed to understand levels of use and correlates of uptake of maternal healthcare services among women of reproductive age (15–49 years) in Mwanza Region, Tanzania.Methods A cross-sectional multi-stage sampling household survey was conducted to obtain data from 1476 households in six districts of Mwanza Region. Data for the 409 women who delivered in the 2 years before the survey were analyzed for three outcomes: four or more ANC visits (ANC4+), health facility delivery, and postpartum visits. Factors associated with the three outcomes were determined using generalized estimating equations to account for clustering at the district level while adjusting for all variables.Results Of the 409 eligible women, 58.2% attended ANC4+, 76.8% delivered in a health facility, and 43.5% attended a postpartum clinic. Women from peri-urban, island, and rural regions were less likely to have completed ANC4+ or health facility delivery compared with urban women. Education and early first antenatal visit were associated with ANC4+ and health facility delivery. Mothers from peri-urban areas and those who with health facility delivery were more likely to attend postpartum check-ups.Conclusion Use of ANC services in early pregnancy influences the number of ANC visits, leading to higher uptake of ANC4+ and health facility delivery. Postpartum check-ups for mothers and newborns are associated with health facility delivery. Encouraging early initiation of ANC visits may increase the uptake of maternal healthcare services.
Determinants of utilization of maternal health care services among mothers in Harare, Zimbabwe
Authors: Nyarambi Eunice , Mundagowa Paddington Tinashe , Chonzi Prosper , Chadambuka Elizabeth
Published: November 2019

Background: Provision of quality maternal health care services is an essential component in ensuring a healthy mother-baby dyad both pre- and post-delivery. In Africa, antenatal care, postnatal care, and skilled birth attendances are very low when compared to high-income countries. The continent has a high burden of maternal and infant morbidity as well as mortality rates. According to the Harare Annual Report of 2016, the number of women seeking maternal health care services was gradually declining from 2014 and pregnant women reported various challenges in accessing health care services.
Methods: A 1 to 1 case-control study was conducted in Harare West South Western District using pretested interviewer-administered questionnaires. The study was carried out at all three clinics in the district and a total of 73 cases and 73 controls were selected using a systematic random sampling method. Quantitative data were analyzed using Epi Info statistical package and qualitative data was analyzed thematically.
Results: The median ages for cases and controls were 29 and 24 years, respectively and the age-group 19 to 24 years constituted the majority of participants (41%). Predictors of utilization of services were young age ( < 24 years), birth order of < 2, maternal and paternal occupation, and religion. Enabling factors included: asking for permission to seek care, absence of transport challenges, a shorter distance to the health facility, affordability of health services, and a higher household income. Besides the shortage of skilled staff at the clinics, mothers endured long waiting hours to be served. The majority of the cases (78.1 %) and controls (72.6%) preferred to be attended by male nurses. Mothers were required to pay a $25 fee for booking and city medical staff rarely visited the clinics.
Conclusion: The utilization of maternal health care services in Harare is dependent on the individual, household, and system-related factors. There was a need to articulate policies and design maternal health care programs that target socially and economically marginalized women. Creating women-friendly health facilities with extended hours for the antenatal care, delivery care and post-natal care services for mothers can help to decongest the health facilities.
Prevalence of dental caries and oral health related quality of life among preschool children aged 4-6 years in Kisarawe, Tanzania.
Authors: Masumo Ray Mrisho , Ndekero Tumaini S. , Carneiro Lorna C.
Published: November 2019

Background Preschool years are a critical period in the development of a healthy child. The consequences of poor oral health in preschool children reach beyond dental problems, with oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) being associated with overall systematic health as well as one’s quality of life. The purpose of this study was to explore the level to which dental caries impacts the OHRQoL in a sample of preschooler children in Kisarawe.Methods A cross-sectional based study was conducted in 2017. A total of 1,106 preschool children completed a face-to-face interview, using a translated Kiswahili version of the Michigan Oral Health-related Quality of Life Scale–Child Version (2003), and underwent clinical oral examination using WHO (1997) criteria.Results The decayed component was the most prevalent (dft = 2.08) and the Significant Caries Index (SiC) was 5.54 double of the (dft), showing polarization of dental caries in the studied population. After adjusting for appropriate covariates, preschool children of age 5 and 6 years old were more likely to have decayed tooth [Adjusted OR = 3.02, (95% CI =2.01-4.54)] and [Adjusted OR=2.23, (95% CI= 1.55-3.20)] respectively. Preschool children without visible plaque on the buccal surface of upper anterior teeth were less likely to have decayed teeth [Adjusted OR=0.21, (95% CI=0.09-0.45)]. Regarding measurements of oral health-related quality of life using the MOHRQoL, only preschool children who reported on ‘does your teeth hurt you now?’ and ‘do kids make fun of your teeth?’ were more likely to have a decayed tooth [Adjusted OR=1.74, (95% CI=1.12-2.71)] and [Adjusted OR=1.87, (95% CI=1.11-3.15)], respectful.Conclusion The findings suggest that dental caries, affecting a significant portion of preschoolers, was associated with both poor oral hygiene and the age of the child. The MOHRQoL appear to be able to discriminate between groups, and preschool children of 4-6 years of age are reliable informants to answer the MOHRQoL in this group of Tanzanian children.
Polymorphic markers for identification of parasite population in Plasmodium malariae
Authors: Mathema Vivek Bhakta , Nakeesathit Supatchara , Pagornrat Watcharee , Smithuis Frank , White Nicholas J , Dondorp Arjen , Imwong Mallika
Published: November 2019

Background Molecular genotyping in Plasmodium serves many aims including providing tools for studying parasite population genetics and distinguishing recrudescence from reinfection. Microsatellite typing, insertion-deletion (INDEL) and single nucleotide polymorphisms is used for genotyping, but only limited information is available for P. malariae, an important human malaria species. This study aimed to provide a set of genetic markers to facilitate the study of P. malariae population genetics. Methods Markers for microsatellite genotyping and merozoite surface protein 1 (pmmsp1) gene polymorphisms were developed and validated in symptomatic P. malariae field isolates from Myanmar (N=37). Fragment analysis was used to determine allele sizes at each locus to calculate multiplicity of infections (MOI), linkage disequilibrium, genetic richness index, heterozygosity and construct dendrograms. Nucleotide diversity (π), number of haplotypes, and genetic diversity (Hd) were assessed and a phylogenetic tree was constructed. Genome-wide microsatellite maps with annotated regions of newly identified markers were constructed.Results Six microsatellite markers were developed and tested in 37 P. malariae isolates which showed sufficient heterozygosity (0.530-0.922), genetic richness index (0.050-0.250) and absence of linkage disequilibrium (IAS = 0.03, p-value > 0.05) (N=37). In addition, a tandem repeat (VNTR)-based pmmsp1 INDEL polymorphisms marker was developed and assessed in 27 P. malariae isolates showing a nucleotide diversity of 0.092, haplotype gene diversity of 0.698 and identified 14 unique variants. The size of VNTR consensus repeat unit adopted as allele was 27 base pairs. The markers Pm12_426 and pmmsp1 showed greatest diversity with heterozygosity scores of 0.920 and 0.835, respectively. Using six microsatellites markers, the likelihood that any two parasite strains would have the same microsatellite genotypes was 8.46 × 10-4 and was further reduced to 1.66 × 10-4 when pmmsp1 polymorphisms were included.Conclusions Six novel microsatellites genotyping markers and a set of pmmsp1 VNTR-based INDEL polymorphisms markers for P. malariae were developed and validated. Each marker could be independently or in combination employed to access genotyping of the parasite. The newly developed markers may serve as a useful tool for investigating parasite diversity, population genetics, molecular epidemiology and for distinguishing recrudescence from reinfection in drug efficacy studies.
Structural and functional similarities and differences in nucleolar Pumilio RNA-binding proteins between Arabidopsis and Charophyte Chara corallina
Authors: Park Su Hyun , im Hyung-Sae , Kalita Prakash Jyoti , Choi Sang-Bong
Published: November 2019

Background: Pumilio RNA-binding proteins are evolutionarily conserved throughout all eukaryotes and are involved in RNA decay, transport, and translation repression in the cytoplasm. Even though a majority of Pumilio proteins function in the cytoplasm, two nucleolar forms have been reported to have a function in rRNA processing in Arabidopsis. Chara is known to be most closely related to land plants as it shares several characteristics with modern embryophytes. Results: In this study, we identified two putative nucleolar Pumilio protein genes, ChPUM2 and ChPUM3 , from the transcriptome of Chara corallina . Of the two ChPUM proteins, ChPUM2 was the most similar to Arabidopsis APUM23 in the amino acid sequence (27% identity and 45% homology) and the predicted protein structure, while ChPUM3 was similar to APUM24 (35% identity and 54% homology). The transient expression of 35S:ChPUM2-RFP and 35S:ChPUM3-RFP showed nucleolar localization of fusion proteins in tobacco leaf cells, similar to the expression of APUM23-GFP and APUM24-GFP. Moreover, 35S:ChPUM2 complemented the morphological defects of the apum23 phenotypes but not those of apum24, while 35S:ChPUM3 could not complement the apum23 and apum24 mutants. Similarly, the 35S:ChPUM2/apum23 plants rescued the pre-rRNA processing defect of apum23 , but 35S:ChPUM3/apum24 +/- plants did not rescue that of apum24 . Consistent with these complementation results, a known target RNA-binding sequence at the end of the 18S rRNA (5'-GAAUUGACGG) for APUM23 was conserved in Arabidopsis and Chara, whereas a target region of ITS2 pre-rRNA for APUM24 was 156 nt longer in Chara than in Arabidopsis. Moreover, ChPUM2 and APUM23 were predicted to have nearly identical structures, but ChPUM3 and APUM24 have different structures in the 5th C-terminal Puf RNA-binding domain as ChPUM3 has a long random coil in this domain. Conclusions: Our results indicate that ChPUM2 has evolutionarily maintained functions in Arabidopsis, while ChPUM3 is not functional in Arabidopsis, most likely due to the long target ITS2 sequence of Arabidopsis and the distinct tertiary structure from Arabidopsis homologue APUM24.
Nitrogen and phosphorus co-starvation inhibits anthocyanin synthesis in the callus of grape berry skin
Authors: Zheng Hui-Zhen , Wei Huan , Guo Shui-Huan , Feng Ming-Xin , Jin Xu-Qiao , Fang Yu-Lin , Zhang Zhen-Wen , Xu Teng-Fei , Meng Jiang-Fei
Published: November 2019

Background: Anthocyanins are a type of natural pigment that have high potential for development and utilization in regions like food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries, with nitrogen and phosphorus starvation possibly promoting their accumulation in grapes. However, it remains unclear whether such starvation impacts the grape callus, or how the co-starvation of nitrogen and phosphorus affects the biosynthesis of anthocyanins. Here, we investigated how nitrogen starvation, phosphorus starvation, and the co-starvation of these two elements affects the synthesis of anthocyanins in the callus of grape skin. We also evaluated how these parameters participate in the Abscisic acid signaling pathway. Results: Separate starvation of nitrogen and phosphorus, as well as nitrogen and phosphorus co-starvation, inhibited callus growth, while significantly promoting the accumulation of anthocyanins. However, co-starvation did not facilitate anthocyanin biosynthesis during the later stages of callus growth. qRT-PCR analysis showed that the expression of VvUFGT and VvmybA1 was closely related to anthocyanin accumulation in the callus under nitrogen and phosphorus starvation. Besides, we also confirmed that the abscisic acid signaling pathway was involved in anthocyanin accumulation as well as callus resistance under adverse conditions. Conclusions: This study demonstrated how nitrogen and phosphorus starvation contribute to the regulation of anthocyanin synthesis in the callus of grapes. This information provides a basis for investigating the regulatory mechanisms of anthocyanin synthesis in grapes, as well as theoretical support for the production of anthocyanins by callus culture. Keywords: grape; callus; anthocyanin; nitrogen starvation; phosphorus starvation; co-starvation
A Multivariate Multilevel Analysis of the Risk Factors Associated with Anthropometric Indices in Iranian mid-adolescents
Authors: Heydari Seyyed Taghi , Alamolhoda Marizeh , Ayatollahi Seyyed Mohammad Taghi , Tabrizi Reza , Akbari Maryam
Published: November 2019

Background The present study was conducted to assess some specific factors related to anthropometric indices in a representative sample of Iranian mid-adolescents. It also aimed to investigate the relationship between three anthropometric indices using a multivariate multilevel approach.Methods This study was conducted among 2538 students (1286 boys) aged 14 - 20 years old, who were randomly selected among 16 high schools by multi-stage random sampling procedure from 4 education districts of Shiraz, Iran. Data on demographic characteristics and anthropometric measures were collected. Anthropometric indices were estimated by the calibrated tools. A multivariate multilevel model was used to assess the predictor variables associated with obesity measures of the triceps (TST), abdominal (AST), and subscapular (SST) skinfold thickness.Results In this study, the prevalence of overweight and obesity was estimated to be 10.2 and 5.1%, respectively. Hierarchical models showed that, the outcome variables were correlated at the child and district levels. Positive associations were observed between the sex, family history of obesity, and moderate and high Socio-Economic Status (SES) with three anthropometric indices. Moreover, there were positive associations between moderate to vigorous physical activities with AST and SST, but they were not statistically significant at a significance level of 0.05.Conclusions Our findings revealed that, TST, AST, and SST could be useful indices for measuring the adiposity in mid-adolescents. In addition, the effect of the district level on the predictor variables highlights the important role of the environmental factors on the childhood obesity.
The prostate cancer drug enzalutamide shortens anogenital distance in male rat offspring by blocking the androgen receptor
Authors: Schwartz Camilla Lindgren , Svingen Terje , Taxvig Camilla , Christiansen Sofie , Pedersen Mikael , Frandsen Henrik Lauritz , Gøttsche Annemette Fribo , Frederiksen Katrine Ankjær , Johansson Hanna Katarina Lilith , Vinggaard Anne Marie
Published: November 2019

Background: Enzalutamide is a non-steroidal anti-androgen drug used to treat prostate cancer. It is a potent androgen receptor (AR) antagonist, with an in vitro Lowest Observed Effect Concentration (LOEC) of 0.05 μM. In this study, we wanted to assess its utility as a model compound for future mechanistic studies aimed at delineating mechanism-of-action of anti-androgenic effects in the developing fetus. Methods: Enzalutamide in vitro activity was tested using an Androgen receptor reporter assay (AR-EcoScreenTM) and a steroidogenesis assay (H295R assay). For in vivo characterization, pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to 10 mg/kg bw/day enzalutamide from gestational day 7-21. At gestational day 21, enzalutamide exposure concentrations were measured both in amniotic fluids and fetal plasma, alongside Anogenital distance (AGD). Fetal testes were collected and for testosterone measurements and gene expression profiling. Results: Enzalutamide was a strong AR antagonist in vitro and we also observed disrupted androgen synthesis in the H295R steroidogenic assay with a LOEC of 3.1 μM. In utero exposure resulted in about 20% shorter anogenital distance (AGD) in male fetuses., as well as signs of dysregulated expression of the steroidogenic genes Star, Cyp11a1 and Cyp17a1 in the fetal testes at gestational day 21. Intra-testicular testosterone levels were unaffected. Conclusions: Based on these observations, together with in vitro LOECs and the fetal plasma levels of enzalutamide, we propose that the effect on male AGD was caused by AR antagonism rather than suppressed androgen synthesis. Due to the characteristic mechanism of action of enzalutamide, we suggest to use it as a new model compound in research on anti-androgenic environmental chemicals.
Diagnostic performance of pulmonary ultrasonography and a clinical score for the evaluation of hydration status in haemodialysis patients
Authors: Bobot Mickaël , Zieleskiewicz Laurent , Jourde-Chiche Noémie , Kotze Clarissa Von , Ebersolt Manon , Dussol Bertrand , Sallée Marion , Chopinet Sophie , Berland Yvon , Brunet Philippe , Robert Thomas
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND There is no feasible benchmark in daily routine to estimate the hydration status of haemodialysis patients, which is essential to their management. We performed a retrospective study in HD patients to assess the diagnostic performance of pulmonary ultrasound and clinical examination for the evaluation of fluid overload using transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) as a gold standard. METHODS 31 patients receiving chronic HD were included. Evaluation of hydration status was assessed weekly before haemodialysis sessions using clinical and Echo Comet Scores from pulmonary ultrasound and TTE (reference method). RESULTS Five patients had a TTE overload. Compared with TTE, the diagnostic performance of the clinical overload score has a sensitivity (Se) of 100%, a specificity (Sp) of 77%, a positive predictive value (PPV) of 50% and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 100% with a κ of 0.79. Only orthopnoea (P=0.008), jugular turgor (P=0.005) and hepatic-jugular reflux (P=0.008) were significantly associated with TTE overload diagnosis. The diagnostic performance of Echo Comet Score by pulmonary ultrasound has a Se of 80%, a Sp of 58%, a PPV of 26% and a NPV of 94%. Ten patients (32.3%) had an increase of extravascular pulmonary water without evidence of TTE or clinical overload. CONCLUSIONS Our clinical score has a convincing diagnostic performance compared to TTE and could be easily used in daily clinical routine to adjust dry weight. The evaluation of the overload using pulmonary ultrasound seems poorly correlated with the overload evaluated by TTE. The presence of extravascular pulmonary water undetected by clinical examination and TTE remains a parameter which requires further investigation.
Prdx1 Promotes the Loss of Primary Cilia in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Gong Fanghua , Chen Qiongzhen , Li Jinmeng , Yang Xiaoning , Ma Junfeng , Liu Yu
Published: November 2019

Background: Loss of primary cilia is frequently observed in tumor cells, suggesting that the absence of this organelle may promote tumorigenesis through aberrant signal transduction, the inability to exit the cell cycle, and promotion of tumor cell invasion. Primary cilia loss also occurs in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) cells, but the molecular mechanisms that explain how ESCC cells lose primary cilia remain poorly understood. Methods: Inhibiting the expression of Prdx1 in the ESCC cells to detect the up-regulated genes related to cilium regeneration and down-regulated genes related to cilium disassembly by Gene chip. And, mice and cell experiments were carried to confirm the role of the HEF1-Aurora A-HDAC6 signaling axis in ESCC. Results: In this study, we found that silencing Peroxiredoxin 1 (Prdx1) restores primary cilia formation, and over-expressing Prdx1 induces primary cilia loss in ESCC cells. We also showed that the expression of Prdx1 regulates the action of the HEF1-Aurora A-HDAC6 signaling axis to promote the disassembly of primary cilia, and suppression of Prdx1 results in decreased tumor formation and tumor mass volume in vivo. Conclusions: These results suggest that Prdx1 is a novel regulator of primary cilia formation in ESCC cells.
Serum Levels of Neutrophil Gelatinase Associated Lipocalin (NGAL) Predicts Hemodialysis After Coronary Angiography in High Risk Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome.
Authors: Reyes Luis Felipe , Bustamante Carlos A. , Severiche-Bueno Diego Fernando , Murillo Sixta , Soni Nilam J. , Poveda Marcela , Gomez Efrain , Buitrago Ricardo , Rodriguez Alejandro
Published: November 2019

Aim To determine the association of serum the Neutrophil Gelatinase Associated Lipocalin (NGAL) levels and the need for hemodialysis after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).Design This is a prospective, observational study.Setting A cardiovascular and University referral hospital.Patients Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) that underwent PCI, during two consecutive years were enrolled in our study.Main variables of interest NGAL levels were measured using ELISA. Blood samples were obtained within the first 6 hours of hospital admission, and 12 and 24 hours after contrast exposure from angiography. The primary outcome was the requirement of hemodialysis. The non-parametric Mann-Whitney U Test was used to test for differences in median serum levels of NGAL. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was developed to assess the accuracy of NGAL to predict need for hemodialysis after PCI.Results A total of 2,875 were screened; however, 45 patients with ACS that underwent PCI were included. All patients were at high risk of developing Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) defined by Mehran score >11 points. The median (IQR) serum concentration of NGAL was significantly higher in patients that required versus did not require hemodialysis (340 [83-384] vs. 169 [100-210], p=0.01). Elevated serum levels of NGAL predicted the need for hemodialysis with an area under the curve of 0.86 (95% CI: 0.66-1.00).Conclusions In patients with ACS undergoing PCI and high risk of developing CIN, an elevated serum level of NGAL 6 hours after contrast exposure predicts development of acute kidney injury requiring hemodialysis.
The role of Trx/TBP-2 in oxidative stress induced autophagy in human lens epithelial cells
Authors: Hu Jianghua , Shen Lifang , Zhang Chengshou , Yao Ke , Yu Yibo
Published: November 2019

Background: Oxidative stress plays an important role in age-related cataract development. The cellular antioxidant protein thioredoxin (Trx) and its negative regulator, thioredoxin binding protein-2 (TBP-2), maintain the intracellular redox balance upon oxidative stress. The aim of this study is to investigate role of Trx and TBP-2 in human lens epithelial cells (LECs) under oxidative stress. Methods: LECs were treated with 50 μM of H2O2 serum-free medium for different duration, and the mRNA and protein levels of Trx-1, Trx-2 and TBP-2 were measured by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. Trx-1 activity was evaluated by Thioredoxin Activity Fluorescent Assay. The subcellular localization of Trx-1, Trx-2 and TBP-2 was evaluated by cellular immunofluorescence. The cell viability was detected by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and the LC3-II protein level was detected to evaluate the autophagy level. The interaction between Trx-2 and TBP-2 was examined by Co-Immunoprecipitation (Co-IP). Results: The results showed that the mRNA levels of the Trx-1, Trx-2 and TBP-2 were kinetically changed after treatment with 50 μM of H2O2 for different duration. Exposure to H2O2 increased the expression of Trx-2 and TBP-2 but not Trx-1, while the exposure inhibited Trx-1 activity. TBP-2 was co-localized with Trx-1 and Trx-2, exposure to H2O2 enriched co-localization of TBP-2 to Trx-1 but not Trx-2, and increased the interaction between TBP-2 and Trx-1. Under normal circumstances, Trx-1 over-expression enhanced autophagic response and mainly regulates autophagy in the initiation. Conclusions: This study demonstrates differential roles of Trx-1 and Trx-2 in cellular response to oxidative stress, and oxidative stress increased Trx-1 interacting to TBP-2 and Trx-1 regulating autophagic response.
How to Optimally Estimate Malaria Readiness Indicators at the Health district Level? Findings from the Burkina Faso Service Availability and Readiness Assessment (SARA) Cross-Sectional Data
Authors: Rouamba Toussaint , Samadoulougou Sekou Ouindpanga , Compaoré Cheick Saïd , Tinto Halidou , Gaudart Jean , Kirakoya-Samadoulougou Fati
Published: November 2019

Background: One of the major causes of malaria-related deaths in Sub-Saharan African countries is the limited accessibility to quality care. In these countries, malaria control activities are implemented at the health district level. However, malaria indicators are often regionally representative. This paper provides an approach for estimating health district-level malaria readiness indicators from survey data designed to provide regionally representative estimates. Methods: A binomial hierarchical Bayesian spatial prediction method was applied to Service Availability and Readiness Assessment (SARA) survey data to provide estimates of essential equipment availability and readiness to provide malaria care at the health district level. Predicted values of each indicator were adjusted by the type of health facility, location, and population density. Then, a health district composite readiness profile was built via hierarchical ascendant classification. Results: All surveyed health-facilities were mandated to manage malaria. The spatial distribution of essential equipment and malaria readiness was heterogeneous. Around 62.9% of health districts had a high level of readiness to provide malaria care and prevention during pregnancy. Low-performance scores for managing malaria were found in big cities located in the central and Haut-Bassins regions. The health districts with low coverage for both first-line antimalarial drugs and rapid diagnostic tests were Baskuy, Bogodogo, Boulmiougou, Nongr-Massoum, Sig-Nonghin, Dafra, and Do. Conclusion: We provide health district estimates and reveal gaps in basic equipment and malaria management resources in some districts that need to be filled. By providing local-scale estimates, this approach could be replicated for other types of indicators to inform decision-makers and health program managers and to identify priority areas.
Dynamic analysis of towing operation with military tracked recovery vehicle
Authors: M. Sundar , Banerjee Saayan , Deokar Arun Kumar , Srirama Ranjith Kumar , Joshua Sam Davidson
Published: November 2019

The present work is focused upon development of multi-body dynamic (MBD) models of a military tracked recovery and towed vehicles in Adams Tracked Vehicle (ATV) toolkit, and carrying out the dynamic analysis of towing operation with the vehicles. Towing is one of the important recovery operations for the military recovery vehicle, which is generally carried out on plain terrain conditions. However, it is also desired to tow another vehicle of similar weight class over certain gradients as well. In this regard, it is required to assess the structural rigidity of the tow bar assembly, while negotiating the gradients. The finite element models of the tow bars have been developed in Abaqus/CAE, from which the modal information is extracted. The finite element models of the tow bars have been integrated with the MBD model of the recovery and towed vehicles in ATV through Adams/Flex. The dynamic analyses of towing operation with the existing tow bar assembly, have been carried out over different gradients, based on which required design modifications have been proposed to minimize the relative angular motion between the tow bars while descending the gradient. With an objective of further weight reduction and enhanced gradient climbing capability, suitable recommendations have further been provided to modify the tow bar assembly design. Dynamic simulations were carried out with the modified tow bar assembly design, through which higher gradients could be negotiated with reduced tow bar assembly weight. The above dynamic analyses have provided a base platform for arriving at the standard operating procedure of carrying out the towing operation in practice. The analyses have also established a framework for future design of tow bar assemblies under the influence of a three dimensional vehicle dynamic environment.