bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Classification of features shape of Gram-negative bacterial using an extreme learning machine
Authors: Satoto B D , Utoyo M I , Rulaningtyas R , Koendhori E B
Published: July 2020

Gram-negative bacteria are one of microorganism responsible for nosocomial infections in Indonesia. Nosocomial bacteria can cause nosocomial diseases, which are difficult to cure with antibiotic treatment. This bacterial observation was carried out using image processing to replace visual inspection. The process of this research consists of four stages, namely Pre-processing preparing image data, dividing objects by segmentation, obtaining and selecting features, ending with classification. At the segmentation stage, the bacterial image object was chosen that best suits the expert representation, in this case, a medical analyst. Feature extraction is done to get the pixel object information to be processed. At the classification stage, the use of extreme learning machines was chosen due to its shorter training process time. Two different bacteria were used, namely nosocomial bacteria and Gram-negative bacteria. In this research, selected bacterialKlebsiella pneumoniawas obtained from 50 patients until a total of 2520 images were obtained. At the classification stage, the results of the bacterial object feature extraction are used 120 photographs in the training process and 40 image data in the testing process, with the total amount of data used, is 160 images with 512x512 pixel size and 24-bit depth. Extreme learning accuracy results are obtained in 96.71% of the process testing.
Utilization of plastic waste processing for oil fuel at Tambaan Beach, Pasuruan City
Authors: Rudianto R , Yudaningtyas E , Lelono T D , Kasitowati R D
Published: July 2020

The amount of waste in Indonesia is estimated to reach 68 million tons in 2019, of which 9.52 million tons is a plastic waste. With this amount, Indonesia is ranked second in the world as the largest producer of plastic waste. One area that suffers from plastic waste is the coastal area. This plastic waste is difficult to decompose and cause environmental problems. Likewise, it happened on the Tambaan coast in Tambaan sub-district, Panggungrejo subdistrict, Pasuruan city. Currently, accumulation of plastic waste is evident throughout the coastal area. The accumulation of scattered plastic waste and its proximity to the residents’ settlements has become a hotbed of mosquitoes and caused a pungent smell. The Serving Doctoral Program at Universitas Brawijaya offers a solution to process plastic waste into fuel oil such as diesel, kerosene, and premium. The technology used was Muryani’s distillation from Wlingi, Blitar Regency. The technology can change certain types of plastic waste to produce fuel. Karang Taruna Bina Hang Tuah was acted as a reliable partner to assist the implementation of the technology on site. This study aims to strengthen the capacity of Karangtaruna in Tambaan Village to be more concerned about the environmental problems of Tambaan beach by processing waste that has been polluted by plastic waste. The results of plastic waste treatment showed that 10 kg of dried plastic waste can be transformed into diesel, premium and kerosene with the efficiency value of 60%, 35%, and 15%, respectively.
Banana flour as fillers in making tomato paste
Authors: Muchlisyiyah J , Hasna T
Published: July 2020

Tomatoes are one of the horticultural crops that have high potential value in Indonesia. Statistics of the Ministry of Industry in 2016 shows that tomato sauce is an import commodity worth the US $ 1284 thousand and exports worth the US $ 863 thousand. The raw material for making tomato sauce is tomato paste. Tomato paste is an intermediate product that commonly uses fillers in the form of corn starch which is a lot of imported commodities, CMC, or xanthan gum. This filler can be replaced with other types of carbohydrates that have abundant amounts in Indonesia, including banana flour. Banana flour is one ingredient that can be used as an alternative filler of tomato paste. Both bananas and tomatoes are two commodities that have low prices during the main harvest. This study aims to determine the concentration of banana flour that is suitable for use in making tomato paste. This study uses a completely randomized design (CRD) with the addition of banana flour treatment consisting of 5 levels, namely 0 %, 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4%. The results showed that the addition of banana flour could increase the total dissolved solids, density, and viscosity of tomato paste. The addition of banana flour did not affect the pH of tomato paste. In addition, the addition of banana flour can reduce the value of brightness and redness in tomato paste.
Exploring the farmer productive behavior of cassava in effort of developing value-chain linkages to improve smallholder cassava production systems in North Sumatera, Indonesia
Authors: Irawanto D W , Krisdiana R , Wisnubroto E I , Newby J
Published: July 2020

Cassava farming in North Sumatera is prominently for cash crops as feedstock to the tapioca starch factory. Multiple stakeholder engagement is needed to develop the value chain linkage to improve the smallholder cassava production system in North Sumatera. The project activity started in 2018 to improve the cassava farming system by introduced new cassava varieties, training on soil and fertilizer management, and linkage between multiple stakeholders to support the smallholder cassava farming. A Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and household surveys were conducted in 2019 to evaluate the changes in farmers’ behavior and perspective toward the improvement of the farming system. The results showed that most of the farmers had improved their farming system, and consequently, the cassava tuber yield than in turn, increased the tapioca starch company productivity. However, several issues need to be solved in order to effectively upscaling the smallholder cassava farming in the region.
Hand sanitizer formulation using orange peel essential oil
Authors: Wijana S , Pratama E P , Rahmah N L , Arwani M
Published: July 2020

Hand sanitizer is mainly produced using 60% of alcohol as an active substance. Therefore, many hand sanitizers’ products are highly dominant with the alcohol smell. This research was aimed to formulate a sweet-scented hand sanitizer using a combination of orange essential oil as the addition of fragrant substance. A randomized block design (RBD) method was used, consists of one factor of essential oils proportion (i.e. baby orange (BO): sweet orange (SO)) in the formulation of hand sanitizer (P) with five levels. All treatment combination was carried out in five replicates. Physical properties (i.e. pH, density, and viscosity) and microbiological tests (i.e. total plate count and area of bacterial inhibition) were performed, as well as sensory tests to determine consumer response. The best results of the physical properties and the microbiological test were obtained from A2 treatment with proportion of BO: SO (0.75: 0.25), with the average of bacterial inhibition area of 6.77mm more efficient than that of the control. The sweet scene of the hand sanitizer product was clearly shown, as much as 77% of respondents favoured its aroma. The current study clearly shows that orange peels were potential as the additional ingredients in giving the sweet smell to the hand sanitizer.
Fabrication of transparent ZnO/(CuZn)O heterojunction solar cells by electrochemical deposition
Authors: Keikhaei Mansoureh , Tanaka Masaya , Ichimura Masaya
Published: July 2020

Transparent (CuZn)O thin films were fabricated via electrochemical deposition at room temperature from an aqueous solution containing Zn(NO3)2 and Cu(NO3)2, and properties of the films were studied before and after annealing at 400 °C in air. According to x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy results, copper was in the Cu1+ oxidation state. All the samples before and after the annealing were found to be amorphous by x-ray diffraction, and p-type conductivity was found by photoelectrochemical characterizations. Transparent p-n heterojunction ZnO/(CuZn)O was fabricated by depositing ZnO on as-deposited and annealed (CuZn)O. For both as-deposited and annealed (CuZn)O, rectifying characteristics and photovoltaic effects were observed.
Research on microstructure of copper coatings on AlN ceramic surface by laser cladding and brazing
Authors: Zhao Jian , Wang Xiangwang , Shu Fengyuan , Jiang Sansheng , Ma Pan , Zhao Yixuan , Yu Zhishui
Published: July 2020

The preparation of Cu-based coatings on AlN ceramic surface was accomplished by laser cladding and brazing technology. The Cu-based coating was prepared by both copper powder and titanium powder on ceramic surface. The microstructure and properties were tested by x-ray diffraction, metallurgical microscope, scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive spectrometer and microhardness tester. The novelties of this paper in the method of laser cladding and brazing were used to prepare Cu-coating on ceramic surface and the addition of Ti could improve the properties of Cu-based coating. The addition of Ti improved the wettability of ceramic surface. According to the results of EDS, Ti could better get into the Cu-based coating and formed metallurgical bonding in the laser cladding. The microhardness of laser cladding was higher than brazing, which could be concluded that it was due to the rapid cooling rate during the laser cladding could restrain grain growth and element segregation.
Medications for management of opioid use disorder
Authors: Koehl Jennifer L , Zimmerman David E , Bridgeman Patrick J
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The use of buprenorphine, methadone, and long-acting naltrexone for treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD) is discussed, including a review of current literature detailing treatment approaches and action steps to optimize treatment in acute care and office-based settings.

The U.S. epidemic of opioid-related deaths has been driven by misuse of prescription opioids and, increasingly, illicit drugs such as heroin, fentanyl, and fentanyl analogs, necessitating a refocusing of treatment efforts on expanding access to life-saving, evidence-based OUD pharmacotherapy. Inpatient treatment of opioid withdrawal includes acute symptom control through a combination of nonopioid medications and long-term pharmacotherapy to lessen opioid craving and facilitate stabilization and recovery. Methadone and buprenorphine reduce opioid craving, increase treatment retention, reduce illicit opioid use, and increase overall survival. Buprenorphine has logistical advantages over methadone, such as greater flexibility of treatment setting and less risk of adverse effects. Studies have shown the efficacy of long-acting injectable naltrexone to be comparable to that of buprenorphine if patients are detoxified prior to initiation of therapy; however, patients with active OUD are often not able to complete the week-long period of opioid abstinence needed prior to initiation of naltrexone injections. Although buprenorphine is preferred by many patients and can be prescribed in office-based settings, there remains a paucity of physicians certified to prescribe it.

Conclusion

Buprenorphine has become the medication of choice for many patients with OUD, but its use is limited by the low number of physicians certified to prescribe the agent. Other agents studied for treatment of OUD include methadone and naltrexone.
Immune Response to an Acute Moderate Dose of Alcohol in Healthy Young Adults
Authors: Monnig Mollie A , Lamb Philip S , Parra Jose M , Cioe Patricia A , Martone Christina M , Monti Peter M , Szabo Gyongyi
Published: July 2020

Prior research on alcohol and the immune system has tended to focus on binge doses or chronic heavy drinking. The aim of this single-session preliminary study was to characterize immune response to moderate alcohol (0.60 g alcohol per kilogram body weight) in healthy, nonchronic drinkers. The sample (N = 11) averaged 26.6 years of age and was balanced in gender. Plasma samples were collected at baseline and 1, 2 and 3 hours postconsumption. Markers of microbial translocation [lipopolysaccharide (LPS)] and innate immune response [LPS-binding protein (LBP), soluble cluster of differentiation 14 (sCD14), and selected cytokines] were measured using immunoassays. Participants completed self-report questionnaires on subjective alcohol response and craving. Linear mixed models were used to assess changes in biomarkers and self-report measures. Breath alcohol concentration peaked at 0.069 ± 0.008% 1 hour postconsumption. LPS showed a significant linear decrease. LBP and sCD14 showed significant, nonlinear (U-shaped) trajectories wherein levels decreased at 1 hour then rebounded by 3 hours. Of nine cytokines tested, only MCP-1 and IL-8 were detectable in ≥50% of samples. IL-8 did not change significantly. MCP-1 showed a significant linear decrease and also accounted for significant variance in alcohol craving, with higher levels associated with stronger craving. Results offer novel evidence on acute immune response to moderate alcohol. Changes in LBP and sCD14, relative to LPS, may reflect their role in LPS clearance. Results also support further investigation into the role of MCP-1 in alcohol craving. Limitations include small sample size and lack of a placebo condition.
Dawn and Daytime Singing Behavior of Chipping Sparrows (Spizella Passerina)
Authors: Liu Wan-Chun , Kroodsma Donald E.
Published: July 2020

Songbirds typically have small-to-large repertoires of different song types used in complex patterns over a day or season, but what remains poorly understood are patterns of song use by songbirds that have a single, simple song. Here, on the basis of extensive field observations, we reveal how a male Chipping Sparrow (Spizella passerina) varies its simple, repetitive song to create a dynamic singing performance. During the day, and beginning shortly after males arrive on their territories, males typically sing long songs at a relatively slow rate from the tops of trees near the center of their territories. About two weeks after males have arrived, they begin to sing well before sunrise; during this dawn chorus, songs are brief and delivered rapidly, typically while males face each other on the ground at territorial boundaries. Each male sings this way during the dawn chorus throughout the breeding season, except when his female is fertile. By contrast, daytime singing essentially stops after a male pairs. The dawn chorus appears to mediate social interactions among territorial neighbors, whereas daytime songs function in long-distance territory advertisement, particularly for female attraction.

Comportamiento de Canto al Amanecer y Durante el Día en Spizella passerina
Behavior of Ruddy Duck Broods in Utah
Authors: Joyner David E.
Published: July 2020

This study reports on the brood-related behavior of Ruddy Ducks at Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area, Farmington, Utah. Drake accompaniment of hens and broods apparently resulted from a residual mate attraction rather than from a paternal relationship with the brood. Hen Ruddy Ducks accomplished inter- and intraspecific brood defense by means of agonistic displays and actual aggression. Communication between hen and brood was accomplished through visual and, occasionally, auditory signals. Calls were used to regroup ducklings, whereas visual displays were used to stimulate specific brood response. Brood behavior varied according to the age of the ducklings and the site occupied.
Parent-Offspring Interactions in Zebra Finches
Authors: Muller Robert E. , Smith Douglas G.
Published: July 2020

The begging behavior of immature Zebra Finches has both visual and acoustic components. Begging nestlings gape at their parents, exposing characteristic mouth markings and a moving tongue. They also emit begging calls. Both components undergo changes as the offspring mature, and there is a shift from the visual to acoustic modality as the primary stimulus for feeding. Recorded fledgling begging calls were broadcast inside the cages of Zebra Finch parents with offspring. These begging calls stimulated parental feeding and other behaviors associated with feeding. The offspring also responded to recorded calls by showing begging behavior. Parents were sensitive to recorded begging calls from approximately day 16 to day 28 after the first offspring hatched, although there was substantial variation in these times among pairs of parents.
Possible Specialization for Hummingbird-Hunting in the Tiny Hawk
Authors: Stiles F. Gary
Published: July 2020

This paper describes the hunting tactics of the Tiny Hawk, Accipiter superciliosus fontanieri, in a Costa Rican rain forest, where it appears to be a hummingbird specialist. Three tactics were used by the hawks to hunt hummingbirds: typical Accipiter still-hunting (probably not specifically for hummingbirds), waiting in ambush by a hummingbird's regular territorial perch, and flying rapidly between the perches of several territorial hummingbirds. Relative use of the latter two tactics may reflect the local density of territorial hummingbirds.
Effect of Prey on Predator: Voles and Harriers
Authors: Hamerstrom Frances
Published: July 2020

Nesting of Harriers (Circus cyaneus) in central Wisconsin was strongly linked to vole (Microtus pennsylvanicus) abundance during 3 of 4 peak yr within a 16-yr period. Heavy application of DDT on the study area was believed to be the cause of the damped response to one vole high.
Seventeen Bird Species New to Peru from the Pampas De Heath
Authors: Graham Gary L. , Graves Gary R. , Schulenberg Thomas S. , O'Neill John P.
Published: July 2020

This paper presents notes on 17 species of birds that have not previously been reported for Peru, all of which were collected or observed on a large isolated grassland surrounded by tropical forest in southeastern Peru.
Hormonal Induction of Feather Pigmentation in Ptarmigan
Authors: Höhn E. O. , Braun C. E.
Published: July 2020

Willow Ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus) in the winter plumage, on a regime under which control birds grew white feathers in plucked areas, grew pigmented feathers in the plucked areas, when injected with posterior pituitary extract or α MSH, LH, or FSH (only effective in females). White-tailed Ptarmigan (Lagopus leucurus), patch-plucked and released into the wild after implantation with a hormone-cholesterol mixture, grew pigmented feathers after implantation with α MSH, TSH, thyroxine (in one out of two birds tested), and an FSH/LH mixture. Controls implanted with cholesterol grew only white feathers. Both sets of experiments were carried out in winter.

A scheme of the control of ptarmigan plumage colors, which assumes that MSH and gonadotrophins and, in males, testosterone are involved in the natural control mechanism, is proposed.
The Insulation in Nests of Selected North American Songbirds
Authors: Skowron Carol , Kern Michael
Published: July 2020

The heat flux (Qn), thermal conductance (h), thermal conductivity coefficients (k), and density (based on light penetration) of 66 nests representing 11 species of North American songbirds are presented. Well-insulated nests have relatively small values of Qn (0.151 to 0.167 W) and h (3.53 to 3.74 W m-2 °C-1). The nest wall is either solid or so dense that it prevents light from penetrating it (0 lux-1). Poorly insulated nests have relatively high values for Qn (0.364 to 0.373 W) and h (9.95 to 12.35 W m-2 °C-1), and are exceedingly porous (0.39 to 0.72 lux-1). Nests with moderate insulation have values of Qn (0.230 to 0.293 W) and h (4.37 to 6.15 W m-2 °C-1) that are intermediate in size. Some of these nests are moderately porous (0.0016 to 0.0054 lux-1); others are not (0.00002 to 0.0013 lux-1). Many facets of the nest (diameter of the entrance; depth, volume, and surface area of the nest cavity; thickness of the nest wall; density of the nest wall) influence Qn and h, but generally weakly. The most important of these is nest density. Values of k for nests range between 52 and 239 x 10-3 W m-1 °C-1, but are usually intermediate between those of animal fur and wood.
Effect of Habitat Decimation on Ring-Billed Gull Colony- and Nest-Site Tenacity
Authors: Southern Linda K. , Southern William E.
Published: July 2020

Colony-site tenacity and nest-site tenacity have been documented in several larids, but the proximate factors affecting fidelity remain poorly understood. We examined the effect of severe breeding-habitat alterations (bulldozing) on site tenacity in Ring-billed Gulls (Larus delawarensis). Return rates of wing-tagged adults were similar in bulldozed and unchanged parts of the colony site. In bulldozed areas, however, most ring-bills abstained from nesting; those that did breed showed an increased tendency to move to a different nest site.
UXT in Sertoli cells is required for blood–testis barrier integrity†
Authors: Thomas Phillip A , Schafler Eric D , Ruff Sophie E , Voisin Maud , Ha Susan , Logan Susan K
Published: July 2020

Spermatogenesis is a complex process that establishes male fertility and involves proper communication between the germline (spermatozoa) and the somatic tissue (Sertoli cells). Many factors that are important for spermatozoa production are also required for Sertoli cell function. Recently, we showed that the transcriptional cofactor ubiquitously expressed transcript (UXT) encodes a protein that is essential in germ cells for spermatogenesis and fertility. However, the role of UXT within Sertoli cells and how it affects Sertoli cell function was still unclear. Here we describe a novel role for UXT in the Sertoli cell’s ability to support spermatogenesis. We find that the conditional deletion of Uxt in Sertoli cells results in smaller testis size and weight, which coincided with a loss of germ cells in a subset of seminiferous tubules. In addition, the deletion of Uxt has no impact on Sertoli cell abundance or maturity, as they express markers of mature Sertoli cells. Gene expression analysis reveals that the deletion of Uxt in Sertoli cells reduces the transcription of genes involved in the tight junctions of the blood–testis barrier (BTB). Furthermore, tracer experiments and electron microscopy reveal that the BTB is permeable in UXT KO animals. These findings broaden our understanding of UXT’s role in Sertoli cells and its contribution to the structural integrity of the BTB.
Changes and Continuities in Adoption Social Work: Adoption in Scotland Since the 1968 Act
Authors: Critchley Ariane , Cowan Polly , Grant Maggie , Hardy Mark
Published: July 2020

This article charts changes and continuities in the social work role in adoption since 1968. The Social Work (Scotland) Act 1968 established the Children’s Hearing System, Scotland’s unique approach to child welfare in which lay volunteers make decisions on compulsory intervention relating to children. Although the Act was not intended to reform adoption practice, it has had two major impacts. First, as adoption moved from ‘relinquishment’ to more complex and contested legal routes, the Children’s Hearing came to occupy an integral role in decision-making for children in need of care and protection. Secondly, since 1968, adoption has become understood as a resource for children who are unable to remain within their birth family or kinship networks. Using documentary analysis of adoption files and interviews with key informants, the research focused on three key periods: 1968, 1988 and 2014. The study found that fragmentation of the social work role has decreased the potential of adoption records to be a resource for adopted individuals curious about their origins and story. Paradoxically, over this period, there has been growing understanding of the identity needs of adopted people. Such unintended consequences suggest the need for more a thoughtful approach to adoption record keeping.
Pan-Family Assays for Rapid Viral Screening: Reducing Delays in Public Health Responses During Pandemics
Authors: Erlichster Michael , Chana Gursharan , Zantomio Daniela , Goudey Benjamin , Skafidas Efstratios
Published: July 2020

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 has highlighted deficiencies in the testing capacity of many developed countries during the early stages of pandemics. Here we describe a strategy using pan-family viral assays to improve early accessibility of large-scale nucleic acid testing.

Methods

Coronaviruses and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) were used as a case study for assessing utility of pan-family viral assays during the early stages of a novel pandemic. Specificity of a pan-coronavirus (Pan-CoV) assay for a novel pathogen was assessed using the frequency of common human coronavirus (HCoV) species in key populations. A reported Pan-CoV assay was assessed to determine sensitivity to 60 reference coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2. The resilience of the primer target regions of this assay to mutation was assessed in 8893 high-quality SARS-CoV-2 genomes to predict ongoing utility during pandemic progression.

Results

Because of common HCoV species, a Pan-CoV assay would return false positives for as few as 1% of asymptomatic adults, but up to 30% of immunocompromised patients with respiratory disease. One-half of reported Pan-CoV assays identify SARS-CoV-2 and with small adjustments can accommodate diverse variation observed in animal coronaviruses. The target region of 1 well-established Pan-CoV assay is highly resistant to mutation compared to species-specific SARS-CoV-2 reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction assays.

Conclusions

Despite cross-reactivity with common pathogens, pan-family assays may greatly assist management of emerging pandemics through prioritization of high-resolution testing or isolation measures. Targeting highly conserved genomic regions make pan-family assays robust and resilient to mutation. A strategic stockpile of pan-family assays may improve containment of novel diseases before the availability of species-specific assays.
Evaluation of an immunoseparation method for quantitative measurement of remnant-like particle-cholesterol in serum and plasma
Authors: Leary Elizabeth Teng , Wang Tao , Baker Daniel J , Cilla Donald D , Zhong Jianhua , Warnick G Russell , Nakajima Katsuyuki , Havel Richard J
Published: July 2020

Substantial evidence indicates that triglyceride-rich lipoprotein remnants are atherogenic. Additional research has, however, been limited by available methods for separation and quantification of remnants. We have evaluated an immunoseparation assay developed to measure cholesterol in remnant-like particles (RLP-C). This method uses monoclonal antibodies to human apolipoproteins B-100 and A-I to remove most of the apolipoprotein B-100-containing lipoproteins (namely LDL and nascent VLDL) and apolipoprotein A-I-containing lipoproteins (namely chylomicrons and HDL), leaving behind a fraction of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins, including chylomicron and VLDL remnants, both of which are enriched in apolipoprotein E. Cholesterol in the unbound fraction is measured with a sensitive enzymatic assay. The RLP-C concentration was highly correlated with total triglyceride-rich lipoproteins (sum of VLDL-cholesterol and IDL-cholesterol) separated by ultracentrifugation and by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (r = 0.86 and 0.76, respectively). The within-run and run-to-run imprecision (CV) of the assay was ∼6% and 10%, respectively. The assay was not affected by hemoglobin up to 5000 mg/L (500 mg/dL), bilirubin up to 342 mmol/L (20 mg/dL), glucose up to 67 mmol/L (1200 mg/dL), or ascorbic acid up to 170 mmol/L (3.0 mg/dL). In 726 subjects (men, n = 364; women, n = 362) in the US, the 75th percentiles of RLP-C concentration were 0.17 mmol/L (6.6 mg/dL) and 0.23 mmol/L (8.8 mg/dL) in sera obtained after overnight fasting or randomly, respectively. A group of 151 patients from nine US centers and one Canadian center with coronary artery atherosclerosis established by angiography had higher median RLP-C concentrations than 302 gender- and age-matched controls (P <0.05). We conclude that the RLP-C assay compares favorably to ultracentrifugation and electrophoresis and provides a convenient and economical approach to measure triglyceride-rich lipoprotein remnants in routine clinical laboratories.
Increased concentrations of genotype-interpreted Ca 19-9 in urine of bladder cancer patients mark diffuse atypia of the urothelium
Authors: Vestergaard Else Marie , Wolf Hans , Ørntoft Torben F
Published: July 2020

We investigated the use of genotype-interpreted measurements of the tumor marker Ca 19-9 in the urine of bladder cancer patients as a marker of the extent of urothelial disease. Ca 19-9 in urine (sialyl-Lea/creatinine ratio) was measured in 81 bladder cancer patients and correlated to T-category, histologic grade, and presence of urothelial dysplasia. As reference group, Ca 19-9 ratio was measured in urine from 21 apparently healthy individuals. The amount of sialyl-Lea expressed is influenced by the Lewis genotype and secretor status. Accordingly, secretor status was determined in urine by a novel ELISA method, and the Lewis genotypes of all of the individuals were determined by PCR cleavage methods. Ca 19-9 concentrations in urine were higher (P <0.01) in bladder cancer patients than in healthy individuals and significantly (P =0.02) higher in cancer patients with concomitant urothelial dysplasia than in those with normal urothelium. For individuals Lewis-genotyped as homozygous wild-type, Ca 19-9 concentrations in urine were higher, both in cancer patients (P = 0.06) and in healthy individuals (P = 0.004), than in the heterozygous individuals. Furthermore, nonsecretor cancer patients had higher (P <0.01) Ca 19-9 concentrations in urine. Attention is drawn to the possibility of a general genotype interpretation of a result in clinical chemistry.
Laboratory guidelines for monitoring of antimicrobial drugs
Authors: Hammett-Stabler Catherine A , Johns Thomas
Published: July 2020

Few antimicrobial drugs meet the requirements for therapeutic drug monitoring. Those that are monitored include the aminoglycosides (gentamicin, tobramycin, and amikacin), chloramphenicol, and in some cases, vancomycin. For these drugs, there is evidence of a relationship between serum concentration, efficacy, and/or the incidence of adverse or toxic events. Monitoring begins with the appropriate timing of collection and continues through the analytical process to the integration of all data used to guide the clinician’s next decision.
Homocysteine and vitamins in cardiovascular disease
Authors: Jacobsen Donald W
Published: July 2020

On the basis of recent retrospective and prospective studies, it is now widely accepted that increased total plasma homocysteine is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Impaired enzyme function as a result of genetic mutation or deficiency of the essential B vitamins folic acid, B12, and B6 can lead to hyperhomocysteinemia. Oxidized forms of homocysteine account for 98–99% of total plasma homocysteine. Although there is uncertainty as to whether increased homocysteine is causal or merely a proxy for cardiovascular disease, several lines of evidence suggest that it may play a role in atherothrombotic disease. Homocysteine appears to alter the anticoagulant properties of endothelial cells to a procoagulant phenotype. Mildly increased homocysteine causes dysfunction of the vascular endothelium. Folic acid effectively lowers homocysteine concentration in the plasma. Intervention studies are urgently needed to determine if lowering homocysteine is effective in decreasing the morbidity and mortality of cardiovascular disease.
Kinetics of Serum Tumor Marker Concentrations and Usefulness in Clinical Monitoring
Authors: Bidart Jean-Michel , Thuillier François , Augereau Christine , Chalas Jacqueline , Daver Alain , Jacob Nelly , Labrousse Françoise , Voitot Hélène
Published: July 2020

Only a few markers have been instrumental in the diagnosis of cancer. In contrast, tumor markers play a critical role in the monitoring of patients. The patient’s clinical status and response to treatment can be evaluated rapidly using the tumor marker half-life (t1/2) and the tumor marker doubling time (DT). This report reviews the interest of determining these kinetic parameters for prostate-specific antigen, human chorionic gonadotropin, α-fetoprotein, carcinoembryonic antigen, cancer antigen (CA) 125, and CA 15-3. A rise in tumor markers (DT) is a yardstick with which benign diseases can be distinguished from metastatic disease, and the DT can be used to assess the efficacy of treatments. A decline in the tumor marker concentration (t1/2) is a predictor of possible residual disease if the timing of blood sampling is soon after therapy. The discrepancies in results obtained by different groups may be attributable to the multiplicity of immunoassays, the intrinsic characteristics of each marker (e.g., antigen specificity, molecular heterogeneity, and associated forms), individual factors (e.g., nonspecific increases and renal and hepatic diseases) and methods used to calculate kinetics (e.g., exponential models and timing of blood sampling). This kinetic approach could be of interest to optimize patient management.
Disease Gene Patents: Overcoming Unethical Constraints on Clinical Laboratory Medicine
Authors: Merz Jon F
Published: July 2020

The rapidly growing number of disease gene patents—patents that claim all methods for diagnosis of a particular genetic condition—threatens the ability of physicians to provide medical care to their patients. In the past, patented diagnostic tests were made broadly available to the medical community in the form of test kits or licenses to use the patented test. Disease gene tests, however, are being monopolized by a small number of providers. Monopolization of medical testing services: (a) threatens to restrict research activities; (b) creates unacceptable conflicts of interest; (c) may reduce patient access to testing; (d) may lead to inequitable extensions of patent terms on tests and related discoveries; and (e) grants to patent holders the ability to dictate the standard of care for testing, and to otherwise interfere with the practice of medicine. Because of the risks raised by monopolization, amendment of the patent law to require compulsory licensing of physicians providing medical services is recommended.

Vatican City (Reuters). The Vatican announced today that it has entered into an agreement with Dr. Mark Bogart of Honolulu, Hawaii, which grants to the Vatican exclusive rights to United States Patent no. 4,874,693. That patent, granted to Dr. Bogart in 1989, covers the human chorionic gonadotropin part of the maternal serum triple test for Down syndrome when performed between 18 and 25 weeks of pregnancy. Dr. Bogart, who was collecting royalties of several million dollars per quarter from hospitals, health maintenance organizations, and testing laboratories throughout the US, sold his interests in the patent for an undisclosed sum. The Vatican’s statement made clear that the Church intends to enforce its patent and prevent further use of the test in the US.
Optimization of Apolipoprotein(a) Genotyping with Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis
Authors: Griffioen Pieter H , Zwang Louwerens , van Schaik Ron HN , Engel Henk , Lindemans Jan , Cobbaert Christa M
Published: July 2020

Background: Increased lipoprotein(a) is a risk factor for atherosclerosis, and its concentration in serum is inversely correlated with the size of the apoliprotein(a) [apo(a)] component. The size of the apo(a) gene is determined mainly by the Kringle IV size polymorphism. We have optimized and characterized pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) for apo(a) genotyping.

Methods: Established PFGE protocols were adjusted. The changes included the following: (a) increased DNA yields by the use of all leukocytes for isolation from either 3 mL of fresh EDTA whole blood or 250 μL of frozen buffy coats; (b) increased efficiency of Kpn1 digestion by the inclusion of a digestion buffer wash; (c) reduction of assay time by the use of capillary blotting; (d) increased sensitivity by the use of four digoxigenin-labeled apo(a) probes; and (e) identification using a single film by the inclusion of a digoxigenin-labeled lambda marker probe in addition to apo(a) probes in the hybridization mix.

Results: In older Caucasians, 93% (buffy coats, n=468) were heterozygous for apo(a) gene size. An inverse correlation between serum lipoprotein(a) and the sum of Kringle IV alleles was found (y = −23x + 1553; r = −0.442; n = 468). Gel-to-gel variation was minimal (3%). Imprecision (SD) was one Kringle IV repeat (control sample containing eight fragments of 72–233 kb; n=34 electrophoretic runs).

Conclusions: The practicality and sensitivity of the apo(a) genotyping technique by PFGE were improved, and accuracy and reproducibility were preserved. The optimized procedure is promising for apo(a) genotyping on frozen buffy coats from large epidemiological studies.
Clinical Chemistry Since 1800: Growth and Development
Authors: Rosenfeld Louis
Published: July 2020

The 19th and 20th centuries witnessed the growth and development of clinical chemistry. Many of the individuals and the significance of their contributions are not very well known, especially to new members of the profession. This survey should help familiarize them with the names and significance of the contributions of physicians and chemists such as Fourcroy, Berzelius, Liebig, Prout, Bright, and Rees. Folin and Van Slyke are better known, and it was their work near the end of the second decade of the 20th century that brought the clinical chemist out of the annex of the mortuary and into close relationship with the patient at the bedside. However, the impact on clinical chemistry and the practice of medicine by the 1910 exposé written by Abraham Flexner is not as well known as it deserves to be, nor is the impetus that World War I gave to the spread of laboratory medicine generally known.

In the closing decades of the 20th century, automated devices produced an overabundance, and an overuse and misuse, of testing to the detriment of careful history taking and bedside examination of the patient. This is attributable in part to a fascination with machine-produced data. There was also an increased awareness of the value of chemical methods of diagnosis and the need to bring clinician and clinical chemist into a closer partnership. Clinical chemists were urged to develop services into dynamic descriptions of the diagnostic values of laboratory results and to identify medical relevance in interpreting significance for the clinician.
Quantification of Pro-B-Type Natriuretic Peptide and Its Products in Human Plasma by Use of an Analysis Independent of Precursor Processing
Authors: Goetze Jens Peter , Kastrup Jens , Pedersen Frants , Rehfeld Jens F
Published: July 2020

Background: Measurement of cardiac natriuretic peptides or their precursors in plasma appears promising in the diagnosis of heart failure. However, the currently available assays to measure pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (proBNP)-derived peptides have produced grossly discrepant results.

Methods: We treated plasma with trypsin before assay and used in the assay an antibody specific for a processing-independent epitope of human proBNP. We then determined the total concentration of proBNP and its products in healthy volunteers and heart-failure patients.

Results: The antiserum produced (no. 98192) required an intact proBNP NH2 terminus for binding and displayed a high titer, index of heterogeneity, and binding affinity, implying that the RIA was monospecific and highly sensitive. Preanalytical tryptic treatment of plasma cleaved proBNP forms to release the N-terminal 1–21 fragment. Furthermore, enzymatic treatment of plasma also was efficient in avoiding nonspecific interference from plasma proteins, making it an expedient alternative to extraction. In healthy individuals, the total proBNP concentrations increased with age from 2.0 pmol/L (range, 0–15 pmol/L; ages 51–65 years) to 22 pmol/L (range, 3–40 pmol/L; ages 66–88 years; P <0.0001). The increase in plasma proBNP in the elderly, however, also seems to reflect the prevalence of cardiac disease. Plasma concentrations in patients with heart failure were all markedly increased [median, 89 pmol/L (range, 29–659) vs 1.0 pmol/L (range, 0–16) in age-matched controls; P <0.0001].

Conclusions: The processing-independent analysis measures the total proBNP product irrespective of the degree of proBNP processing. The results show that proBNP and its products circulate in low picomolar concentrations in healthy individuals.
Residency and Movement Patterns of Wintering Dunlin in the Willamette Valley of Oregon
Authors: Sanzenbacher Peter M. , Haig Susan M.
Published: July 2020

In the winters of 1998–1999 and 1999–2000, we tracked 67 radio-marked Dunlin (Calidris alpina) throughout the complex agricultural landscape of the Willamette Valley of Oregon. Individual birds were tracked across 8-week sampling periods and indicated a high degree of regional fidelity throughout the three winter sampling periods. Birds exhibited varied degrees of fidelity to specific wetland sites and were detected at an average of nine different sites. Distances traveled within the region were extensive and greatest during late winter. Females ranged farther from capture sites than males, and movement from capture sites for all birds was greatest during late winter. Mean home-range size (95% minimum convex polygons) of birds was 258.2 ± 44.8 km2 (SE) and was greatest during late winter. Diurnal roosts were identified as centers of activities and daily movements were most pronounced during crepuscular periods. These data represent the most extensive documentation of winter movements for a shorebird at an inland site. Findings indicate Dunlin were winter residents, and extensive local movements suggest a high degree of functional connectivity of habitats.

Residencia y Patrones de Movimiento de Calidris alpina en el Valle Willamette de Oregon

Resumen. En los inviernos de 1998–1999 y 1999–2000, seguimos 67 individuos de Calidris alpina marcados con transmisores a través del complejo paisaje agrícola del Valle Willamette, Oregon. Seguimos aves individuales a lo largo de períodos de 8 semanas de muestreo, que indicaron un alto nivel de fidelidad regional a través de los tres períodos invernales muestreados. Las aves exhibieron diversos grados de fidelidad a sitios específicos de los humedales y fueron detectadas en promedio en nueve sitios diferentes. Las distancias recorridas dentro de la región fueron grandes y mayores durante el final del invierno. Las hembras se desplazaron a mayores distancias desde los sitios de captura que los machos, y el movimiento de todas las aves desde los sitios de captura fue mayor durante el final del invierno. El tamaño medio del área de hogar (95% de polígonos convexos mínimos) de las aves fue 258.2 ± 44.8 km2 (EE) y fue mayor durante el final del invierno. Los dormideros diurnos fueron identificados como los centros de actividad de las aves y los movimientos diarios fueron más pronunciados durante los períodos crepusculares. Estos datos representan la documentación más completa sobre movimientos invernales para un ave playera en un sitio tierra adentro. Los hallazgos indican que los individuos de C. alpina fueron residentes invernales, y los extensos movimientos locales sugieren un alto nivel de conectividad funcional entre los ambientes.
Isotopic Evaluation of Interrupted Molt in Northern Breeding Populations of the Loggerhead Shrike
Authors: Pérez Guillermo E. , Hobson Keith A.
Published: July 2020

The Loggerhead Shrike (Laniusludovicianus) breedsthroughout North America and various populationsapparently exhibit diverse molt strategies.However, molt in this species and how it may varygeographically is generally poorly known. Weinvestigated molt sequence in 27 breedingLoggerhead Shrikes using stable hydrogen(δD) isotope analysis of flightfeathers. Because feather δD varies with thelatitude at which feathers are grown in NorthAmerica, it is relatively straightforward toidentify those feathers grown south of anindividual's breeding location. We sampled 11feathers per individual to evaluate locations offeather molt between breeding and wintering groundsin North America. Sampling took place in centralSaskatchewan, Canada (n =  18 individuals) andin the southern region of the Saskatchewan-Manitobaborder (n =  9). We found evidencethat shrikes initiated flight feather molt on theirbreeding grounds (P1 and P3) but thenlargely suspended molt until reaching theirwintering areas. The isotopic evidence suggeststhat the first primary (P1, most depleted indeuterium, mean  = −103‰) provides information onshrike breeding latitudes while the innermosttertial (S9, most enriched in deuterium, mean =  −49‰)provides information on shrike wintering orsouthernmost molting latitudes.
Plunging floater survival causes cryptic population decline in the Common Loon
Authors: Piper Walter H , Grear Jason , Hoover Brian , Lomery Elaina , Grenzer Linda M
Published: July 2020

Populations of many vertebrates are declining and geographic ranges contracting, largely as a consequence of anthropogenic threats. Many reports of such decline, however, lack the breadth and detail to narrow down its causes. Here we describe population decline in the Common Loon (Gavia immer), a charismatic aquatic bird, based on systematic resighting and measurement of a marked population. During our 27-year investigation, age-adjusted chick mass has fallen by 11%, mortality among young and old chicks has increased by 31% and 82%, respectively, and fledging success has declined by 26%. Meanwhile, the return rate of marked nonbreeders (“floaters”) has plunged by 53%, and the adult population overall has declined by 22%. Consistent with the thinning ranks of floaters, the rate of territory eviction has decreased by 52% during the study. Despite the decline in floaters, territory occupancy remains unchanged. However, a matrix model, updated with recent estimates for breeding success, juvenile survival, and senescence, yields a recalculated deterministic population growth rate (λ) of 0.94 for our study population, which suggests that declines in vital rates could lead to a loss of 52% of the current population and a decline of 37% in territory occupancy by 2031. Lack of data on floaters in other upper Midwest and New England loon populations leaves their status in doubt.
The Chief Scientist Office Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Imaging in SARS Coronavirus disease-19 (CISCO-19) study
Authors: Mangion Kenneth , Morrow Andrew , Bagot Catherine , Bayes Hannah , Blyth Kevin G , Church Colin , Corcoran David , Delles Christian , Gillespie Lynsey , Grieve Douglas , Ho Antonia , Kean Sharon , Lang Ninian N , Lennie Vera , Lowe David J , Kellman Peter , Macfarlane Peter W , McConnachie Alex , Roditi Giles , Sykes Robert , Touyz Rhian M , Sattar Naveed , Wereski Ryan , Wright Sylvia , Berry Colin
Published: July 2020

Background

COVID-19 is typically a primary respiratory illness with multisystem involvement. The prevalence and clinical significance of cardiovascular and multisystem involvement in COVID-19 remain unclear.

Methods

This is a prospective, observational, multicentre, longitudinal, cohort study with minimal selection criteria and a near-consecutive approach to screening. Patients who have received hospital care for COVID-19 will be enrolled within 28 days of discharge. Myocardial injury will be diagnosed according to the peak troponin I in relation to the upper reference limit (URL, 99th centile) (Abbott Architect troponin I assay; sex-specific URL, male: >34 ng/L; female: >16 ng/L). Multisystem, multimodality imaging will be undertaken during the convalescent phase at 28 days post-discharge (Visit 2). Imaging of the heart, lung, and kidneys will include multiparametric, stress perfusion, cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging, and computed tomography coronary angiography. Health and well-being will be assessed in the longer term. The primary outcome is the proportion of patients with a diagnosis of myocardial inflammation.

Conclusion

CISCO-19 will provide detailed insights into cardiovascular and multisystem involvement of COVID-19. Our study will inform the rationale and design of novel therapeutic and management strategies for affected patients.

Clinical trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT04403607.