bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE OCCURRENCE OF INSECTS AND MOULDS IN STORED COCOA BEANS AT SOUTH SULAWESI
Authors: S. DHARMAPUTRA OKKY
Published: October 2019

Surveys on postharvest handling and technology processing of cocoa beans at farmer, trader and exporter levels in South Sulawesi were conducted together with investigations on moisture content, pest infestation (insect and mould) and quality characteristics in terms of reducing sugar, free amino acid and free fatty acid content. Surveys were conducted during dry (July 1997) and wet seasons (February 1998) in three regencies (Pinrang, Polewali-Mamasa and Luwu) and Ujung Pandang, South Sulawesi province. Interviews were carried out during surveys in the dry season. Number of respondents from farmers, trailers and exporters was 38, 15 and 5, respectively. In each season, number of samples taken from farmers, traders and exporters was 9, 21 and 15, respectively. In general, farmers, traders and exporters did not carry out postharvest handling and technology processing properly. MoistureÂ  content of cocoa beans collected from farmers, traders and exporters were higher than the tolerable limit recommended by SNI (7.5%). Moisture content of cocoa beans collected during the wet season was higher than in the dry season. Insects were found on cocoa beans collected from traders and exporters. Species composition and the presence of each insect species were varied among the two seasons, but the predominant species was Tribolium castaneum. At trader level the percentage of insect-damaged beans during the wet season was higher than that during the dry season, while at exporter level it was lower. During the two seasons the percentage of mouldy beans at farmer level was lower than the tolerable limit recommended by SNI (4%), while those from some samples at trader and exporter levels were higher than 4%, but based on the direct plating method, all of the samples at trader and exporter levels were mouldy. Species composition and the percentage of beans infected by each mould species at farmer, trader and exporter levels during the two seasons were varied. The percentage of mouldy beans increased at trader and exporter levels. The predominant moulds were Aspergillus flaws, Eurotium amstelodami, E. chevalieri and Penicillium citrinum. The predominant mould at farmer level during wet season was Saccharomyces cerevisiae (yeast). Reducing sugar and free amino acid content of cocoa beans collected during the dry season was higher than those collected during the wet season, either at farmer, trader or exporter levels. Free fatty acid content of cocoa beans tends to be higher during the wet season than the dry season at the three levels.Keywords: Stored products pests/Postharvest handling/Technology processing/Moisture content/In-sect/Mould/Reducing sugars/Free amino acids/Free fatty acids/Cocoa/South Sulawesi.
INTEGRATED USE OF NEOCHETINA BRUCHI AND ALTERNARIA EICHHORNIAE IN CONTROLLING WATER HYACINTH
Authors: S. DHARMAPUTRA OKKY , KASNO KASNO , SUNJAYA SUNJAYA , PUTRJ ASMARINA S.R. , HANDAYANI HERI S.
Published: October 2019

The study on the integrated use of the chevroned water hyacinth weevil (Neochetina bruchi Mustache) and the water hyacinth blight diseaseÂ  (Alternaria eichhorniae Nag Raj & Ponnappa) in suppressing water hyacinth growth was carried out under field conditions at Situ Bagendit lake, Garut, West Java. The objectives of this study were (I) to investigate whether the combined use of the two control agents produced a better effect in suppressing water hyacinth growth, (ii) to evaluate whether there is a change in oviposition and feeding habit of the chevroned water hyacinth weevil if the water hyacinth is seriously infected byÂ  A. eichhorniae, and (iii) to evaluate the progress of weevil establishment in the field. The following results were obtained:(1) The concentration of Tween 80 which did not interfere with spore germination was 3%.(2) There was no difference between distilled water and 1% Potato Dextrose Broth (PDB) as a medium for fungal spores production.(3) The combined use of chevroned water hyacinth weevil and the water hyacinth blight produces a better suppressing on water hyacinth growth.(4) There was no significant effect of heavy infection by the water hyacinth blight on oviposition habit of chevroned water hyacinth weevil. Heavy fungal infection only affected feeding habit of the adult chevroned water hyacinth weevil.(5) Establishment of the chevroned water hyacinth weevil is in progress at Situ Bagendit lake, Garut regency, West Java.
GENETIC DIVERSITY ANALYSIS OF THERMOPHILIC BACTERIA FROM CANDRADIMUKA CRATER IN CENTRAL JAVA EMPLOYING PCR-RFLP OF 16S-rRNA GENE
Authors: DESILIYARNI TEMMY , SuwANTOAAAo ANTONIUS , SUHARTONO MAGGY T. , PURWADARIA TRESNAWATI
Published: October 2019

The specific primers for bacteria (63f and 1387r) were used to amplify the 16S-rRNA genes from total community genomic DNA of thermophilic bacteria. The total community genomic DNA was obtained from muds and water samples of Candradimuka crater, Dieng Plateau, Central Java. PCR products were cloned into vectorÂ  pCR*2.1-TOPO (3.9 kb) and transformed into Escherichia coli TOPIC. TwoÂ  tetrameric restriction endonucleasesÂ  RsalÂ  andÂ  HhalÂ  were employed to generate Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphisms (RFLP) paterns. These enzymes yielded 10 and 9 groups of 16S-rRNA profiles or OTU (Operational Taxonomic Units) from 27 16S-rRNA gene clones. Rsal was found to be more discriminative in differentiating the clones than Hhal. Rsal-RFLP indicated that OTU 7 and OTU 3 represented the most abundant clones, i.e. 6 and 5 clones respectively. The distribution of 16S-rRNA gene clones couldÂ  indicate relative distribution ofÂ  specific groups ofÂ  thermophilicÂ  bacteriaÂ  inÂ  theirÂ  natural habitat. Analysis of diversity at the DNA level could represent both culturableÂ  andÂ  unculturable bacteria in theÂ  environment. Similarity analysis showed thatÂ  at levelÂ  0.600 thereÂ  were 8 differentÂ  groups from 10Â  RFLPÂ  profiles generated byÂ  RsalÂ  digestion. This study indicated that there were at least 8 groups of different thermophilic bacteria occupying Candradimuka crater. Key words: Thermophiles, 16S-rRNA, Candradimuka crater.
Eight new records of crabs (Decapoda, Brachyura: Sesarmidae, Varunidae) from the coasts of Taiwan
Authors: Li Jheng-Jhang , Hsu Jhih-Wei , Ng Ngan Kee , Shih Hsi-Te
Published: October 2019

Eight species from seven genera of crabs from two families are reported for the first time from the coastal areas of Taiwan, including estuaries, coral reefs and sandy beaches. These are Clistocoeloma balansae A. Milne-Edwards, 1873, C. villosum (A. Milne-Edwards, 1869) and Parasesarma ungulatum (H. Milne Edwards, 1853) of the Sesarmidae; and Cyclograpsus longipes Stimpson, 1858, Otognathon uru N. K. Ng, Komai & P. K. L. Ng, 2009, Ptychognathus pilosus De Man, 1892, Pyxidognathus granulosus A. Milne-Edwards, 1879 and Scutumara laniger (Tesch, 1918) of the Varunidae.
Relationship of wood cell wall ultrastructure to bacterial degradation of wood
Authors: Singh Adya P. , Kim Yoon Soo , Chavan Ramesh R.
Published: October 2019

This review presents information on the relationship of ultrastructure and composition of wood cell walls, in order to understand how wood degrading bacteria utilise cell wall components for their nutrition. A brief outline of the structure and composition of plant cell walls and the degradation patterns associated with bacterial degradation of wood cell walls precedes the description of the relationship of cell wall micro- and ultrastructure to bacterial degradation of the cell wall. The main topics covered are cell wall structure and composition, patterns of cell wall degradation by erosion and tunnelling bacteria, and the relationship of cell wall ultrastructure and composition to wood degradation by erosion and tunnelling bacteria. Finally, pertinent information from select recent studies employing molecular approaches to identify bacteria which can degrade lignin and other wood cell wall components is presented, and prospects for future investigations on wood degrading bacteria are explored.
Performance of Modified Graphite Felt as Cathode in the Electro-Fenton System
Authors: Song Dongbao , Li Junfeng , Liu Weiwei , Wang Zhaoyang , Zhao Chun , Yang Jie , Tao Junhong , Deng Xiaoya
Published: October 2019

The graphite felt (GF) was modified by the impregnation method and the potentiostatic oxidation method to improve its application performance in the electro-Fenton (E-Fenton) system. Sulfuric acid and ammonia water were used as modifying reagents. After the GF was modified, its conductivity,
adsorption performance and hydrogen peroxide production performance were improved. The original graphite felt (GF0) and the modified GF were used as cathode to degrade methylene blue in the E-Fenton system to explore the practical application performance. The reaction kinetics of
the methylene blue degradation process was fitted. The results showed the degradation of methylene blue followed the first-order kinetics. The GF was modified by the potentiostatic oxidation with ammonia as modifying reagent (GFEN) had the best application performance in the E-Fenton
system. Degradation of methylene blue for 30 min, the reaction rate constant of GFEN cathode system was 1.71 times higher than GF0 cathode system. The GFEN electrode was reused 10 times in the E-Fenton system, the removal rate of methylene blue was only decreased
by 7.14%, and the current was only decreased by 4 mA, which showed its good stability. Finally, the comparison of the electrical energy per order (EE/O) values showed that GFEN can significantly improve the current efficiency of the E-Fenton system.
Highly Sensitive Electrochemical Sensor for the Detection of Chloramphenicol Based on Biomass Derived Porous Carbon
Authors: Wang Guoping , NuerbiYayalikun  , Mamat Xamxikamar , Li Yongtao , Hu Xun , Wang Ping , Xin Xuelei , Hu Guangzhi
Published: October 2019

In this study, the method for detection of chloramphenicol was investigated by electrochemical sensor; the sensor was constructed by biomass derived porous carbon. At first, porous carbon doped with hetroatoms (nitrogen, sulfur, phosphorus) was synthesized based on the use of pyrolysis
and high temperature carbonization methods. Elaeagnusangustifolia L. gum was used as the carbon source in the facile template-free process. The biomass derived porous carbon was then used as the active electrode material for antibiotic sensing. The chemically modified electrodes properties
were studied with the cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry methods. The effects of the scan rate, accumulation time and pH, were carefully considered. Comparison with other working electrodes at the optimized conditions indicated that the N, S, P triple doped porous carbon
modified glassy carbon electrode appeared a well-defined reduction peak towards chloramphenicol. The linear concentration response of chloramphenicol ranged from 1 to 40 μM (R=0.9903) and 50 to 500 μM (R=0.9923), and a low detection limit of 0.01 μM
(S/N=3). Furthermore, the constructed novel electrochemical sensor was used for detection of chloramphenicol in real samples and achieved satisfactory recovers.
Application of Graphene-Based Nanocomposites in Electrochemical Detection of Heavy Metal Ions
Authors: Chen Xue , Pei Yongcun
Published: October 2019

The purpose of this study was to explore the application of graphene-based nanocomposites in electrochemical detection of heavy metal ions. In this study, Graphene oxide (GO) was synthesized with improved Hummers method, and flower-like MoS2/rGO nanocomposite was synthesized
with hydrothermal method and used as electrode modification material. In addition, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray images were used to observe the characterization of the prepared samples and to detect the sensitivity of four heavy metal ions under optimal experimental conditions.
The results showed that the reduced graphene oxides were coated with a large number of flower-like MoS2 and laid on the reduced graphene oxides. And in electrochemical experiments, adsorption experiments and interference tests, MoS2/rGO nanocomposites showed satisfactory
performance for Pb(II). Therefore, this study provided a new strategy for the development of new nanocomposites composites as electrochemical sensors to detect the heavy metal ions in the aquatic environment.
Three-Dimensional Numerical Simulation of Residual Stress of Z-Pin Composites During Curing Process
Authors: Tian Fang , Zhang Jun-Qian
Published: October 2019

By using the coupled thermos-mechanical method, a three-dimensional finite element model of composite was established during the curing process. The accuracy of the simulation model was validated by performing a comparison with the literature results. Based on the model, a three-dimensional
finite element method is applied to conduct analysis of the effect exerted by the curing related parameters on residual stresses in the curing process for the Z-pin AS4/3501-6 composite. The results indicate that the resin stress and fiber Z-direction stress increase with the
curing process, especially during the cooling stage. The bottom stresses of both resin and fiber are observed to be lower than that of top layer. The stress of rich-resin zone at pin/fiber interface is higher but the deformation is smaller. The stress of resin and fiber increases as the volume
shrinkage ratio of resin is on the rise.
Poly(3,4-ethylene dioxythiophene):Poly(styrene sulfonate)-Functionalized Reduced Graphene Oxide Electrode for Ionic Electroactive Polymer Actuators
Authors: Park Minjeong , Kim Sangwoo , Sohn Keun Yong , Kim Seonpil , Jeon Minhyon
Published: October 2019

Ionic electroactive polymer (IEAP) actuators, which offer advantages such as reduced device weight, flexibility, and large deformation under low voltages (1–5 V), have found utility in applications such as biomimetic robots, actuators, and sensors. In this context, in this study,
we fabricate poly(3,4-ethylene dioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate)-reduced graphene oxide (PEDOT:PSS-rGO) composite paper electrodes for actuator application. PEDOT:PSS-rGO paper electrodes are prepared by vacuum filtration of a PEDOT:PSS-rGO mixture that is subsequently subjected to heat
treatment under an argon atmosphere via furnace annealing. We find that a 5:1 weight ratio of PEDOT:PSS-GO provides the lowest sheet resistance. We next fabricate a PEDOT:PSS-rGO actuator via filtration and the hot-pressing method with rGO paper electrodes, which have hydrophobic properties
and low liquid permeability that effectively prevents water evaporation, and we examine its actuating performance. Our results indicate that after functionalization with PEDOT:PSS, the electrical properties and surface roughness of PEDOT:PSS-rGO composite paper electrode are improved. Further,
the mechanical properties of the IEAP actuator based on the PEDOT:PSS-rGO paper electrodes exhibits enhanced performance by a factor of 4 relative to an actuator with conventional rGO electrodes.
Preparation of three-dimensional multilayer ECM-simulated woven/knitted fabric composite scaffolds for potential tissue engineering applications
Authors: Guo Dandan , Wang Shuai , Yin Yuxiang , Luo Jun , Meng Chenjie , Liu Qingsheng , Ni Haiyan , Feng Jianyong
Published: October 2019

The extracellular matrix (ECM), with its multilayer fiber structure, regulates diverse functions including cell proliferation, migration, differentiation and tissue regeneration effects. To mimic and replace the native ECM, the structures and properties of three single-layer fabric substrates including warp/weft-knitted and woven fabrics were analyzed, then two-layer warp/weft-knitted composite fabrics prepared by polyurethane (PU) bonding, and woven composite fabrics prepared by polycaprolactone (PCL)/collagen solution bonding or PU bonding, were studied. After PCL/collagen solution bonding or PU bonding, properties such as pore diameter, air permeability, stress and the contact angle of composite fabrics decreased by some degree, while fiber diameter, thickness and the thermal conductivity of composite fabrics increased. In combination with fiber diameter, pore diameter and physical properties, we know that warp- or weft-knitted composite fabrics are ideal scaffolda for potential applications in nerve, myocardium and tendon tissue engineering.
Determinants of Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Health-Related Quality of Life in Memory Clinic Patients Without Dementia
Authors: Banning Leonie C. P. , Janssen Eveline P. C. J. , Hamel Renske E. G. , de Vugt Marjolein , Köhler Sebastian , Wolfs Claire A. G. , Oosterveld Saskia M. , Melis Rene J. F. , Olde Rikkert Marcel G. M. , Kessels Roy P. C. , Pijnenburg Yolande A. L. , Koene Ted , van der Flier Wiesje M. , Scheltens Philip , Visser Pieter Jelle , Verhey Frans R. J. , Aalten Pauline , Ramakers Inez H. G. B.
Published: October 2019

Objective:

To identify determinants within 3 different domains (ie, somatic comorbidities, cognitive functioning, and neuropsychiatric symptoms [NPS]) of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) over time in memory clinic patients without dementia.

Methods:

This longitudinal multicenter cohort study with a 3-year observation period recruited 315 individuals (age: 69.8 ± 8.6, 64.4% males, Mini-Mental State Examination score 26.9 ± 2.6). A multivariable explanatory model was built using linear mixed effects models (forward selection per domain) to select determinants for self-perceived HRQoL over time, as measured by the EuroQoL-5D visual analogue scale (EQ VAS).

Results:

Mean HRQoL at study entry was 69.4 ± 15.6. The presence of agitation, appetite and eating abnormalities, and eyes/ears/nose (ie, sensory impairment) comorbidities were associated with a change in HRQoL over time. Agitation was most strongly associated with HRQoL over time.

Conclusions:

The association of somatic comorbidities and NPS in memory clinic patients with course of HRQoL shows that these should receive more awareness, detection, and monitoring by clinicians.
Generative adversarial nets in laser-induced fluorescence spectrum image recognition of mine water inrush
Authors: Li Jing , Yang Yong , Ge Hongmei , Wang Yong , Zhao Li
Published: October 2019

Water inrush occurred in mines, threatens the safety of working miners which triggers severe accidents in China. To make full use of existing distinctive hydro chemical and physical characteristics of different aquifers and different water sources, this article proposes a new water source discrimination method using laser-induced fluorescence technology and generative adversarial nets. The fluorescence spectrum from the water sample is stimulated by 405-nm lasers and improved by recursive mean filtering method to alleviate interference and auto-correlation to enhance the feature difference. Based on generative adversarial nets framework and improved spectra features, the article proposes a novel water source discrimination-generative adversarial nets model in mines to solve the problem of data limitation and improve the discrimination ability. The results show that the proposed method is an effective method to distinguish water inrush types. It provides a new idea to discriminate the sources of water inrush in mines timely and accurately.
Safe trajectory for an occipital condyle screw: A computer simulation study
Authors: Lou Zhen-Qi , Wang Yang , Xu Ding-Li , Li Guo-Qing , Ma Wei-Hu , Ruan Chao-Yue , Zhao Hua-Guo
Published: October 2019

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of posterior occipital condyle screw (OCS) placement analysis of the safe trajectory area for screw insertion.

Methods:

Computed tomographic angiography scans of patients (46 males and 27 females) with normal occipitocervical structures were obtained consecutively. Vertebral artery (VA)-occiput distance <4.0 mm was defined as “unfeasible” for OCS fixation, and occipital-atlas angulation was measured to assess the feasibility of screw placement. Next, the placement of 3.5 mm diameter OCS was simulated, the probability of breach of structures surrounding occipital condyles was calculated, and placement parameters were analyzed.

Results:

OCS placement was feasible in 91.1% (133/146) of occipital condyles, and the feasible probability also presented a significant sex-related difference: The probability was higher for males than for females (95.7% vs. 83.3%, p < 0.05). The incidence of anatomical structures injured under screw placement limitation was 18.8% (VA), 81.2% (hypoglossal canal), 59.4% (occipital-atlas joint), and 40.6% (occiput bone surface). There were no significant differences between the left and right condyles in relation to the measured parameters ( p > 0.05). The screw range of motion was significantly smaller in females than in males ( p < 0.05). The feasibility of OCS placement and OCS range of motion were significantly greater in the kyphosis group (>5°) than in the other two groups ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

OCS placement is a feasible technique for occipital-cervical fusion. The male group and occipitocervical region kyphosis group had a wider available space for OCS placement. Tangent angulation may be useful for the accurate and safe placement of an OCS.
Preterm neonates benefit from low prophylactic platelet transfusion threshold despite varying risk of bleeding or death
Authors: Fustolo-Gunnink Susanna F. , Fijnvandraat Karin , van Klaveren David , Stanworth Simon J. , Curley Anna , Onland Wes , Steyerberg Ewout W. , de Kort Ellen , d’Haens Esther J. , Hulzebos Christian V. , Huisman Elise J. , de Boode Willem P. , Lopriore Enrico , van der Bom Johanna G.
Published: October 2019

The Platelets for Neonatal Thrombocytopenia (PlaNeT-2) trial reported an unexpected overall benefit of a prophylactic platelet transfusion threshold of 25 × 109/L compared with 50 × 109/L for major bleeding and/or mortality in preterm neonates (7% absolute-risk reduction). However, some neonates in the trial may have experienced little benefit or even harm from the 25 × 109/L threshold. We wanted to assess this heterogeneity of treatment effect in the PlaNet-2 trial, to investigate whether all preterm neonates benefit from the low threshold. We developed a multivariate logistic regression model in the PlaNet-2 data to predict baseline risk of major bleeding and/or mortality for all 653 neonates. We then ranked the neonates based on their predicted baseline risk and categorized them into 4 risk quartiles. Within these quartiles, we assessed absolute-risk difference between the 50 × 109/L- and 25 × 109/L-threshold groups. A total of 146 neonates died or developed major bleeding. The internally validated C-statistic of the model was 0.63 (95% confidence interval, 0.58-0.68). The 25 × 109/L threshold was associated with absolute-risk reduction in all risk groups, varying from 4.9% in the lowest risk group to 12.3% in the highest risk group. These results suggest that a 25 × 109/L prophylactic platelet count threshold can be adopted in all preterm neonates, irrespective of predicted baseline outcome risk. Future studies are needed to improve the predictive accuracy of the baseline risk model. This trial was registered at www.isrctn.com as #ISRCTN87736839.
Quadrantic vortex vein decompression with subretinal fluid drainage for manangement of Nanophthalmic choroidal effusions— a review of literature and case series
Authors: Khatri Anadi , Singh Sweta , Joshi Kriti , Kharel Muna
Published: October 2019

Background

Uveal effusion syndrome is a rare entity of idiopathic exudative detachments of uveal tissues and retina. Medical treatments with systemic steroids and antimetabolites have been tried but with variable results. Scleral windows or vortex decompressions are usually performed and surgeons usually perform partial sclerectomy in all the quadrants.

Case presentation

For the first time, we report 2 cases of nanophthalmic uveal effusion syndrome managed with our technique.

Conclusion

Quadrantic vortex vein decompression with external drainage for nanophthalmic uveal effusion can provide immediate and stable gain in vision.
Enhanced Bruton’s tyrosine kinase in B-cells and autoreactive IgA in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Heukels Peter , van Hulst Jennifer A. C. , van Nimwegen Menno , Boorsma Carian E. , Melgert Barbro N. , von der Thusen Jan H. , van den Blink Bernt , Hoek Rogier A. S. , Miedema Jelle R. , Neys Stefan F. H. , Corneth Odilia B. J. , Hendriks Rudi W. , Wijsenbeek Marlies S. , Kool Mirjam
Published: October 2019

Rationale

Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) is thought to be triggered by repeated alveolar epithelial cell injury. Current evidence suggests that aberrant immune activation may contribute. However, the role of B-cell activation remains unclear. We determined the phenotype and activation status of B-cell subsets and evaluated the contribution of activated B-cells to the development of lung fibrosis both in humans and in mice.

Methods

B-cells in blood, mediastinal lymph node, and lung single-cell suspensions of IPF patients and healthy controls (HC) were characterized using 14-color flow cytometry. Mice were exposed to bleomycin to provoke pulmonary fibrosis.

Results

More IgA+ memory B-cells and plasmablasts were found in blood (n = 27) and lungs (n = 11) of IPF patients compared to HC (n = 21) and control lungs (n = 9). IPF patients had higher levels of autoreactive IgA in plasma, which correlated with an enhanced decline of forced vital capacity (p = 0.002, r = − 0.50). Bruton’s tyrosine kinase expression was higher in circulating IPF B-cells compared to HC, indicating enhanced B-cell activation. Bleomycin-exposed mice had increased pulmonary IgA+ germinal center and plasma cell proportions compared to control mice. The degree of lung fibrosis correlated with pulmonary germinal center B-cell proportions (p = 0.010, r = 0.88).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that IPF patients have more circulating activated B-cells and autoreactive IgA, which correlate with disease progression. These B-cell alterations were also observed in the widely used mouse model of experimental pulmonary fibrosis. Autoreactive IgA could be useful as a biomarker for disease progression in IPF.
Pathogenic Cav3.2 channel mutation in a child with primary generalized epilepsy
Authors: Souza Ivana A. , Gandini Maria A. , Zhang Fang-Xiong , Mitchell Wendy G. , Matsumoto Joyce , Lerner Jason , Pierson Tyler Mark , Zamponi Gerald W.
Published: October 2019

Two paternally-inherited missense variants in CACNA1H were identified and characterized in a 6-year-old child with generalized epilepsy. Febrile and unprovoked seizures were present in this child. Both variants were expressed in cis or isolation using human recombinant Cav3.2 calcium channels in tsA-201 cells. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings indicated that one variant (c.3844C > T; p.R1282W) caused a significant increase in current density consistent with a pathogenic gain-of-function phenotype; while the other cis-related variant (c.5294C > T; p.A1765V) had a benign profile.
Association of thyroid hormones with resting energy expenditure and complement C3 in normal weight high body fat women
Authors: Karkhaneh Maryam , Qorbani Mostafa , Ataie-Jafari Asal , Mohajeri-Tehrani Mohamad Reza , Asayesh Hamid , Hosseini Saeed
Published: October 2019

Background

A high body fat percentage has a specific effect on activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis. On the other hand, a slight change in thyroid hormones can affect metabolism and body composition as well as immune function. This study aims to examine the relationship between adiposity, thyroid hormone levels and immunity by comparing resting energy expenditure (REE), serum thyroid hormone levels and complement C3 in normal-weight high body fat (normal weight obesity) women and normal-weight normal body fat women.

Methods

In this case-control study, 40 women with normal body weight (BMI < 24.9 kg/m2) and body fat mass (FM) ≥ 30% (normal-weight obesity (NWO) group), and 30 non-obese women (BMI < 24.9 kg/m2) and FM < 30% (non-normal weight obesity (non-NWO) group) were recruited from a sport club in Tehran. Body composition was analyzed using bioimpedance analyzer. Blood samples were collected and analyzed for fasting serum concentration of thyroid hormones (including total T3 and total T4), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and serum complement C3. REE was measured by an indirect calorimetry.

Results

Serum T3 and T4 and also complement C3 were higher in the NWO group than in the non-NWO group. Body fat percentages had significant positive correlation with T3 (r; 0.344, P <  0.05), T4 (r; 0.294, P <  0.05), and complement C3 (r; 0.417, P <  0.05). Serum T3 and T4 were also positively correlated with C3 concentration (r; 0.417, p <  0.001) and (r; 0.349, p <  0.05); respectively, but there was no significant correlation between TSH and C3. REE was not significantly different between the two groups. REE only had a significant positive correlation with fat-free mass (r; 0.421, P <  0.001).

Conclusion

An increase in body fat even in the presence of a normal body weight can be accompanied by the changes in thyroid function and inflammatory markers such as complement C3.
Dissecting the genetic basis of comorbid epilepsy phenotypes in neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Chow Julie , Jensen Matthew , Amini Hajar , Hormozdiari Farhad , Penn Osnat , Shifman Sagiv , Girirajan Santhosh , Hormozdiari Fereydoun
Published: October 2019

Background

Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) such as autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, developmental disability, and epilepsy are characterized by abnormal brain development that may affect cognition, learning, behavior, and motor skills. High co-occurrence (comorbidity) of NDDs indicates a shared, underlying biological mechanism. The genetic heterogeneity and overlap observed in NDDs make it difficult to identify the genetic causes of specific clinical symptoms, such as seizures.

Methods

We present a computational method, MAGI-S, to discover modules or groups of highly connected genes that together potentially perform a similar biological function. MAGI-S integrates protein-protein interaction and co-expression networks to form modules centered around the selection of a single “seed” gene, yielding modules consisting of genes that are highly co-expressed with the seed gene. We aim to dissect the epilepsy phenotype from a general NDD phenotype by providing MAGI-S with high confidence NDD seed genes with varying degrees of association with epilepsy, and we assess the enrichment of de novo mutation, NDD-associated genes, and relevant biological function of constructed modules.

Results

The newly identified modules account for the increased rate of de novo non-synonymous mutations in autism, intellectual disability, developmental disability, and epilepsy, and enrichment of copy number variations (CNVs) in developmental disability. We also observed that modules seeded with genes strongly associated with epilepsy tend to have a higher association with epilepsy phenotypes than modules seeded at other neurodevelopmental disorder genes. Modules seeded with genes strongly associated with epilepsy (e.g.,SCN1A,GABRA1, andKCNB1) are significantly associated with synaptic transmission, long-term potentiation, and calcium signaling pathways. On the other hand, modules found with seed genes that are not associated or weakly associated with epilepsy are mostly involved with RNA regulation and chromatin remodeling.

Conclusions

In summary, our method identifies modules enriched with de novo non-synonymous mutations and can capture specific networks that underlie the epilepsy phenotype and display distinct enrichment in relevant biological processes. MAGI-S is available athttps://github.com/jchow32/magi-s.
Alcohol use and associated factors among women attending antenatal care in Southern Ethiopia: a facility based cross sectional study
Authors: Mekuriaw Birhanie , Belayneh Zelalem , Shemelise Tinsae , Hussen Robel
Published: October 2019

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and associated factors of alcohol use among women attending Antenatal Care in Gedeo zone rural health centers (Southern Ethiopia). This was a cross-sectional study conducted among randomly selected 718 pregnant women attending Antenatal Care. Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test-C was used to assess alcohol consumption. Variables with p-values of < 0.05 in the multivariable logistic regression were considered as having a statistically significant association with alcohol use.

Results

The prevalence of alcohol use among pregnant women attending antenatal care service was 8.1% with 95% CI (6.3–10.0). Unplanned pregnancy [AOR = 2.12, 95% CI (1.20, 3.73)], abortion history [AOR = 2.40, 95% CI (1.16, 4.96)], pre pregnancy alcohol use [AOR 2.17, 95% CI (1.18, 4.00)] and mental distress [AOR = 3.50, 95% CI (1.99, 6.15)] were variables found to have a statistically significant association with alcohol use. This calls a holistic and multi modal approach for the prevention, early identification and intervention of alcohol use during pregnancy. More emphasis should also be given for pregnant women with unplanned pregnancy, history of abortion, pre pregnancy alcohol use and mental distress.
Evidence on food control in charitable food assistance programs: a systematic scoping review
Authors: Makhunga Sizwe , Mashamba-Thompson Tivani , Hlongwa Mbuzeleni , Hlongwana Khumbulani
Published: October 2019

Background

Food control is defined as a mandatory regulatory activity of enforcement aimed at ensuring that all foods during production, handling, storage, processing, and distribution are safe, wholesome, and fit for human consumption; conform to safety and quality requirements; and are honestly and accurately labeled as prescribed by law. This applies to food served by the conventional food supply chain as well as the charitable food assistance programs (CFAPs). This review sought to map the available evidence on the food control in the CFAPs globally.

Methods

In order to identify the literature, we developed a series of search terms, as well as parameters for including articles to review the literature using African Index Medicus, PubMed, Google Scholar, and EBSCOhost (MEDLINE with full text, Academic search complete, MEDLINE) search engines. Articles were also searched through the “Cited by” search as well as citations included in the reference lists of included articles. We included studies reported in all languages and published from inception to 2018. We included studies if they presented evidence of the CFAPs, namely food banks, food charitable organizations (FCOs), pantries, community soup kitchens, and emergency shelters. We presented the results of our search using thematic analysis in order to reveal the emerging themes.

Results

Beyond inconsistencies with the classification of the CFAPs, our study found significant knowledge gaps in crucial areas, namely food vulnerability, food traceability, vulnerability of beneficiary populations, and lack of food control. Our search yielded a total of 23 articles, which we included in the analysis. Results show that while food is the critical commodity to saving lives, if not controlled properly, it can have an adverse effect, especially on people it is meant to benefit (the vulnerable).

Conclusion

With no previous comprehensive review to assess what is known about food control in the CFAPs, we undertook a scoping review, focusing on mapping the key concepts, including the main sources and types of evidence available. By drawing conclusions about the overall state of research activity and identifying research gaps and priorities in the existing literature, this study provides a baseline assessment of the CFAP research published in peer-reviewed journals from inception to 2018.
Non-timber forest products and their contribution to healthcare and livelihood security among the Karbi tribe in Northeast India
Authors: Mipun Puranjoy , Bhat Nazir Ahmad , Borah Dipankar , Kumar Yogendra
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) have been an essential source for food, medicine, and handicraft products among the indigenous populations living in forested areas for millennia. Scientific research on the restoration of the importance of NTFPs and their value addition could potentially guide the development of new nutraceutical products in the future. The present study aims to investigate the diversity of non-timber forest products of the Karbi Anglong District of Assam in Northeast India.

Methods

Multistage sampling technique was used for the study. A total of 70 respondents from 7 randomly selected villages were interviewed with a well-developed semi-structured questionnaire to explore the utilisation of NTFPs. Data analysis was done using four quantitative indices: (a) use report (UR), (b) use value (UV), (c) informant consensus factor (ICF), and (d) fidelity level (FL).

Results

A total of 138 plant species belonging to 59 families distributed in 110 genera were recorded and identified as NTFPs of 1 type or the other. These include 42% having ethnomedicinal use, 33% as edible forest products, 15% as household building materials and utensils, 6% as spices and condiments, and 4% as herbal dyes. Among the medicinal plant species, Abroma augustum (L.) L. f., Amaranthus spinosus L, and Geophila repens (L.) I. M. Johnst. showed the highest ICF and FL.

Conclusions

The present study confirms that NTFPs have played an essential role in the healthcare and livelihood of the indigenous people of the Karbi tribe throughout their generations and continue to do so. Also, the species with high value for both ICF and FL could be used for the development of new, cheap, effective, and eco-friendly herbal formulations for healthcare management leading to economic and social benefits to the indigenous tribe. However, anthropogenic pressure and overexploitation of NTFPs may lead to the loss of this precious natural resource from this area.
Low-density lipoprotein-antioxidant flavonoids and a phenolic ester from Plectranthus hadiensis var. tomentosus
Authors: Ji Hyeon-Seon , Li Hua , Mo Eun-Jin , Kim Un-Hee , Kim Young-Ho , Park Ho-Yong , Jeong Tae-Sook
Published: October 2019

To investigate the effects of extraction solvents and drying methods on Plectranthus hadiensis var. tomentosus quality, eight compounds were isolated and the content of active compounds with their antioxidant activities were compared. Compounds 1 and 2 were known antioxidants, whereas the low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-antioxidant activities of compounds 3, 5, 6, and 7 are reported for the first time, with IC50 values of 2.5, 3.8, 22.8, and 53.7 μM, respectively. Our analysis of 30‒95% ethanol extracts from freeze- and air-dried leaves and stems revealed a relationship between extract composition and antioxidant activity. The 95% ethanol extracts of freeze-dried stems (FDS) exhibited highest phenolic and flavonoid content, which were 1.40 and 2.67 times, respectively, greater than those of air-dried stems (ADS), and very high LDL-antioxidant and DPPH radical scavenging activities, which may have resulted from the phenolic ester rosmarinic acid (2), a major component of FDS extracts and potent antioxidant. In contrast, the 95% ethanol extracts of ADS exhibited relatively low antioxidant activity, possibly owing to the low antioxidant activity of the main components ayanin (7) and (+)-plectranthone (8). These results are important for the development of P. hadiensis var. tomentosus as an effective natural antioxidant material.
Intrathoracic hemorrhage by deep pericardial sutures as detected by transesophageal echocardiography: report of two cases
Authors: Nagai Mirei , Kurokawa Satoshi , Ozaki Makoto , Nomura Minoru
Published: October 2019

Background

The use of deep pericardial suture (DPS) is a widely used technique to lift the heart and expose the targeted vessels during off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB). Several reports alert massive bleeding due to DPS, especially for the patients with perioperative administration of tissue plasminogen activator, low molecular weight heparin, and administration of double antiplatelet agents.

Case presentation

We report two cases of bleeding followed by huge hematoma formation in the left thoracic cavity caused by DPS during OPCAB. In one, bleeding was caused by damage to the left lower pulmonary vein and damage to the diaphragmatic artery in the other. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is a potent tool for detecting complications and identifying the location of bleeding.

Conclusions

TEE is useful for finding hemorrhagic complications and for determining the points of bleeding based on the location of the hematoma.
Setting the stage for corporate headquarters: a technological explanation for the rise of modern industrial corporations
Authors: Baldwin Carliss Y.
Published: October 2019

This paper combines theories of organizational design with theories of production to provide a novel perspective, which helps explain the technological forces that led to the rise of vertically integrated “modern” corporations in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. I describe the technology of a flow process with bottlenecks and show how this technology rewards unified governance, a hierarchical organization structure, and the use of direct authority. These properties in turn became the organizational hallmarks of “modern” industrial corporations with central corporate headquarters.
Neuromodulation as a new avenue for resuscitation in hemorrhagic shock
Authors: Powell Keren , Shah Kevin , Hao Caleb , Wu Yi-Chen , John Aashish , Narayan Raj K. , Li Chunyan
Published: October 2019

Hemorrhagic shock (HS), a major cause of early death from trauma, accounts for around 40% of mortality, with 33–56% of these deaths occurring before the patient reaches a medical facility. Intravenous fluid therapy and blood transfusions are the cornerstone of treating HS. However, these options may not be available soon after the injury, resulting in death or a poorer quality of survival. Therefore, new strategies are needed to manage HS patients before they can receive definitive care. Recently, various forms of neuromodulation have been investigated as possible supplementary treatments for HS in the prehospital phase of care. Here, we provide an overview of neuromodulation methods that show promise to treat HS, such as vagus nerve stimulation, electroacupuncture, trigeminal nerve stimulation, and phrenic nerve stimulation and outline their possible mechanisms in the treatment of HS. Although all of these approaches are only validated in the preclinical models of HS and are yet to be translated to clinical settings, they clearly represent a paradigm shift in the way that this deadly condition is managed in the future.
Ecological specificity of the metagenome in a set of lower termite species supports contribution of the microbiome to adaptation of the host
Authors: Waidele Lena , Korb Judith , Voolstra Christian R. , Dedeine Franck , Staubach Fabian
Published: October 2019

Background

Elucidating the interplay between hosts and their microbiomes in ecological adaptation has become a central theme in evolutionary biology. A textbook example of microbiome-mediated adaptation is the adaptation of lower termites to a wood-based diet, as they depend on their gut microbiome to digest wood. Lower termites have further adapted to different life types. Termites of the wood-dwelling life type never leave their nests and feed on a uniform diet. Termites of the foraging life type forage for food outside the nest and have access to other nutrients. Here we sought to investigate whether the microbiome that is involved in food substrate breakdown and nutrient acquisition might contribute to adaptation to these dietary differences. We reasoned that this should leave ecological imprints on the microbiome.

Results

We investigated the protist and bacterial microbiomes of a total of 29 replicate colonies from five termite species, covering both life types, using metagenomic shotgun sequencing. The microbiome of wood-dwelling species with a uniform wood diet was enriched for genes involved in lignocellulose degradation. Furthermore, metagenomic patterns suggest that the microbiome of wood-dwelling species relied primarily on direct fixation of atmospheric nitrogen, while the microbiome of foraging species entailed the necessary pathways to utilize nitrogen in the form of nitrate for example from soil.

Conclusion

Our findings are consistent with the notion that the microbiome of wood-dwelling species bears an imprint of its specialization on degrading a uniform wood diet, while the microbiome of the foraging species might reflect its adaption to access growth limiting nutrients from more diverse sources. This supports the idea that specific subsets of functions encoded by the microbiome can contribute to host adaptation.
Liquid electron microscopy: then, now and future
Authors: Bharda Anahita Vispi , Jung Hyun Suk
Published: October 2019

Contemporary microscopic imaging at near-atomic resolution of diverse embodiments in liquid environment has gained keen interest. In particular, Electron Microscopy (EM) can provide comprehensive framework on the structural and functional characterization of samples in liquid phase. In the past few decades, liquid based electron microscopic modalities have developed tremendously to provide insights into various backgrounds like biological, chemical, nanoparticle and material researches. It serves to be a promising analytical tool in deciphering unique insights from solvated systems. Here, the basics of liquid electron microscopy with few examples of its applications are summarized in brief. The technical developments made so far and its preference over other approaches is shortly presented. Finally, the experimental limitations and an outlook on the future technical advancement for liquid EM have been discussed.
Effectiveness of a Lay Navigation Program in an Academic Cancer Center
Authors: Winget Marcy , Holdsworth Laura , Wang Suwei , Veruttipong Darlene , Zionts Dani , Rosenthal Eben L. , Asch Steven M.
Published: October 2019

PURPOSE:

A navigation program with lay navigators that targets patients with cancer who are receiving multiple treatment modalities was launched with the goal of improving care coordination.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Pseudo-randomization and mixed methods were used to evaluate the program: patients with even-numbered medical records were assigned to navigation help, and patients with odd-numbered medical records made up the control group. Eligible patients were those scheduled to receive at least two treatment modalities. Intent-to-treat, as-treated, and high-user cohorts with propensity matched controls were used to assess the outcomes: patient experience, emergency room (ER) use, and unplanned hospitalizations. In-depth patient interviews explored how and why patients interacted with the navigator program and overall patient experience.

RESULTS:

Marginally lower incidence rate ratios (IRRs) for both ER visits (IRR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.00 to 1.36) and unplanned hospitalizations (IRR, 1.18; 95% CI, 0.97 to 1.43) occurred in as-treated patients who used navigation help and who lived within 50 miles of Stanford Hospital compared with their matched controls; other cohort analyses had similar results. Survey scores for patients who received help with navigation did not differ significantly from those for corresponding controls in any of the analytic cohorts. Patient interviews suggested that the navigation program had low visibility among patients and that lay navigators drove use of the program. Patient-reported positive experiences included getting help with complex scheduling, alleviating anxiousness through access to information and educational resources, and getting help with activities outside traditional health care; negative experiences stemmed from having expectations that were not met.

CONCLUSION:

Marginally lower rates of ER visits and unplanned hospitalizations for a small subset of patients, low penetration of the navigation program, and mixed comments from patient interviews suggest that a navigation program with a broad scope that targets a large population is not effective. Modifying the program to have a narrower scope of practice may help better target anxious or high-risk patients.