bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Burden analysis of missense variants in 1,330 disease-associated genes on 3D provides insights into the mutation effects
Authors: Iqbal Sumaiya , Jespersen Jakob B. , Perez-Palma Eduardo , May Patrick , Hoksza David , Heyne Henrike O. , Ahmed Shehab S. , Rifat Zaara T. , Rahman M. Sohel , Lage Kasper , Palotie Aarno , Cottrell Jeffrey R. , Wagner Florence F. , Daly Mark J. , Campbell Arthur J. , Lal Dennis
Published: July 2019

Interpretation of the colossal number of genetic variants identified from sequencing applications is one of the major bottlenecks in clinical genetics, with the inference of the effect of amino acid-substituting missense variants on protein structure and function being especially challenging. Here we evaluated the burden of amino acids affected in pathogenic variants (n=32,923) compared to the variants (n=164,915) from the general population in 1,330 disease-associated genes on forty protein features using over 14,000 experimentally-solved 3D structures. By analyzing the whole gene/variant set jointly, we identified 18 features associated with 3D mutational hotspots that are generally important for protein fitness and stability. Individual analyses performed for twenty-four protein functional classes further revealed 240 characteristics of mutational hotspots in total, including new associations recapitulating the sheer diversity across proteins essential structural regions. We demonstrated that the function-specific features of variants correspond to the readouts of mutagenesis experiments and positively correlate with clinically-interpreted pathogenic and benign missense variants. Finally, we made our results available through a web server to foster accessibility and downstream research. Our findings represent a crucial step towards translational genetics, from highlighting the impact of mutations on protein structure to rationalizing the pathogenicity of variants in terms of the perturbed molecular mechanisms.
Single-cell glycolytic activity regulates membrane tension and HIV-1 fusion
Authors: Coomer Charles A. , Carlon-Andres Irene , Iliopoulou Maro , Dustin Michael L. , Compeer Ewoud B. , Compton Alex A. , Padilla-Parra Sergi
Published: July 2019

There has been resurgence in determining the role of host metabolism in viral infection yet deciphering how the metabolic state of single cells affects viral entry and fusion remains unknown. Here, we have developed a novel assay multiplexing genetically encoded biosensors with single virus tracking (SVT) to evaluate the influence of global metabolic processes on the success rate of virus entry in single cells. We found that cells with a lower ATP:ADP ratio prior to virus addition were less permissive to virus fusion and infection. These results indicated a relationship between host metabolic state and the likelihood for virus-cell fusion to occur. SVT revealed that HIV-1 viruses were arrested at hemifusion in glycolytically-inactive cells. Interestingly, cells acutely treated with glycolysis inhibitor 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG) become resistant to virus infection and also display less surface membrane cholesterol. Addition of cholesterol in these in glycolytically-inactive cells rescued the virus entry block at hemifusion and enabled completion of HIV-1 fusion. Further investigation with FRET-based membrane tension and membrane-order reporters revealed a link between host cell glycolytic activity and host membrane order and tension. Indeed, cells treated with 2-DG possessed lower plasma membrane lipid order and higher tension values, respectively. Our novel imaging approach that combines lifetime imaging (FLIM) and SVT revealed not only changes in plasma membrane tension at the point of viral fusion, but also that HIV is less likely to enter cells at areas of higher membrane tension. We therefore have identified a connection between host cell glycolytic activity and membrane tension that influences HIV-1 fusion in real-time at the single-virus fusion level in live cells. As glycolytic activity sets membrane tension levels by altering cellular cholesterol surface levels, our results suggest additional previously unknown benefits of cholesterol-lowering medication in HIV-1 infection.
Structural insights into the substrate specificity of SP_0149, the substrate-binding protein of a methionine ABC transporter from Streptococcus pneumoniae
Authors: Jha Bhavya , Vyas Rajan , Bhushan Jaya , Sehgal Devinder , Biswal Bichitra Kumar
Published: July 2019

Successful pathogenesis is a cumulative effect of the virulence factors of a pathogen and its capability to efficiently utilize the available nutrients from the host. Streptococcus pneumoniae, a Gram-positive opportunistic pathogen, may either reside asymptomatically as a nasopharyngeal commensal inside the human host or cause lethal diseases, including pneumonia, meningitis and sepsis. S. pneumoniae is known to acquire methionine (Met) from its host through a Met importer. Here, the crystal structure of the substrate-binding protein (SBP; SP_0149) of an ABC importer with Met bound is reported at a resolution of 1.95 Å. The three-dimensional structure of SBP shows that it is composed of two distinct domains, each consisting of a mixed β-sheet flanked by helices. The substrate, Met, is bound in the central part of the interface between the two domains. The overall structure of SP_0149 resembles those of SBPs from other reported bacterial Met and Gly-Met dipeptide transporters. However, a detailed analysis of these structures shows notable variations in the amino-acid composition of the substrate-binding pockets of the SP_0149–Met and GmpC–Gly-Met structures. In particular, SP_0149 harbors Thr212 and Tyr114, whereas the corresponding residues in GmpC are Gly and Val. This difference is likely to be the underlying basis for their differential substrate specificity. In summary, the structure of the SP_0149–Met complex provides insights into the transport function of SP_0149 and its interactions with methionine. It opens up avenues for the rational design of inhibitors of SP_0149 through a structure-mediated approach.
Extracellular signal‐regulated kinase activation of self‐healing Langerhans cell histiocytosis: A case report
Authors: Kaneshima Akiko , Yamaguchi Sayaka , Miyagi Takuya , Kariya Yoshiyuki , Awazawa Tsuyoshi , Ohshiro Tokiko , Hyakuna Nobuyuki , Nakanishi Koichi , Takahashi Kenzo
Published: July 2019

A 3‐month‐old boy developed small papules on his trunk. After the papules increased in number, the patient was diagnosed with Langerhans cell histiocytosis based on the pathological findings. He was referred to our department for further examination. Upon initial examination, the papules and nodules were scattered on his back, abdomen and lumbar region. Because he did not present with any organ involvement except the skin, he was diagnosed with single‐system and skin‐limited Langerhans cell histiocytosis. Skin rashes were treated with a topical steroid and started regressing 3 months after onset. All papules disappeared 6 months after onset. In this boy, the Langerhans cell histiocytosis tumor cells expressed phosphorylated extracellular signal‐regulated kinases. In Langerhans cell histiocytosis, BRAF V600E and other genes are known to mutate to act as driver mutations in stem cells of the myeloid dendritic cell lineage. Consequently, extracellular signal‐regulated kinases are continuously activated, which contributes to Langerhans cell histiocytosis carcinogenesis.
Contrasting levels of genotype by environment interaction for life history and morphological traits in invasive populations of Zaprionus indianus (Diptera: Drosophilidae)
Authors: Lavagnino Nicolás J. , Imberti Marcos , Ortiz Victoria E. , Flaibani Nicolás , Fanara Juan José
Published: July 2019

It has been demonstrated that phenotypic plasticity and genotype by environment interaction are important for coping with new and heterogeneous environments during invasions. Zaprionus indianus Gupta (Diptera: Drosophilidae) is an Afrotropical invasive fly species introduced to the South American continent in 1999. This species is generalist and polyphagous, since it develops and feeds in several different fruit species. These characteristics of Z. indianus suggest that phenotypic plasticity and genotype by environment interaction may be important in this species invasion process. In this sense, our aim was to investigate the role of genetic variation for phenotypic plasticity (genotype by environment interaction) in Z. indianus invasion of the South American continent. Specifically, we quantified quantitative genetic variation and genotype by environment interactions of morphological and life history traits in different developmental environments, that is, host fruits. This was done in different populations in the invasive range of Z. indianus in Argentina. Results showed that Z. indianus populations have considerable amounts of quantitative genetic variation. Also, genotype by environment interactions was detected for the different traits analyzed in response to the different developmental environments. Interestingly, the amounts and patterns of these parameters differed between populations. We interpreted these results as the existence of differences in evolutionary potential between populations that have an important role in the short‐ and long‐term success of the Z. indianus invasion process.
Scaled‐up biotechnological production of individual betalains in a microbial system
Authors: Guerrero‐Rubio María Alejandra , López‐Llorca Rosalía , Henarejos‐Escudero Paula , García‐Carmona Francisco , Gandía‐Herrero Fernando
Published: July 2019

The recent interest in plant pigment betalains as bioactive compounds and chemopreventive agents has led to the search for a reliable and scalable process to obtain them. The cloning of the novel and efficient enzyme 4,5‐DOPA‐extradiol dioxygenase from Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus in an expression vector, and the subsequent heterologous expression in Escherichia coli cultures has led to the start‐up of a biotechnological production system of individual pigments. The aim of this study was to search for the optimal conditions for the production of betalamic acid in microbial factories and the scaled‐up obtention of the derived pigments. Four different betaxanthins and two betacyanins were obtained after the addition of non‐transformable amines and amino acids and their condensation with the betalamic acid produced by the dioxygenase. The scaled‐up obtention and purification of betalains improved the yields of the previous methodologies reaching quantities by up to 150 mg of pure compounds.
Influence of different irrigants on substance P and IL‐8 expression for single visit root canal treatment in acute irreversible pulpitis
Authors: Evangelin J. , Sherwood I. Anand , Abbott Paul V. , Uthandakalaipandian Ramesh , Velu Vijay
Published: July 2019

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of ketorolac tromethamine and dexamethasone on substance P and IL‐8 expression when used as a root canal irrigant for single visit root canal treatment for acute irreversible pulpitis. A total of 42 patients with pain due to acute irreversible pulpitis in carious premolar and molar teeth were included in this study. The four irrigation groups were as follows: saline (n = 11), 3% sodium hypochlorite (n = 11), ketorolac tromethamine (n = 10) and dexamethasone (n = 10). Blood samples S1 and S2 were collected upon access opening and after canal preparation, respectively. Quantification of substance P and IL‐8 were done using ELISA test. Post‐operative pain was assessed by questioning the patients. The difference between S1 and S2 sample values for the four different irrigant groups was not significant. The sodium hypochlorite group had a higher mean expression of substance P and IL‐8 values. Dexamethasone irrigation was more effective in controlling post‐operative pain.
Evaluation of bevelled needle tip deformation with Dental Inferior Alveolar Nerve blocks
Authors: Skapetis Tony , Doan‐Tran Phuong Diem , Hossain Nibir M.
Published: July 2019

The study aimed to investigate whether any correlation existed between bevel orientation and needle tip deformation following the administration of a standard inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) technique during patient treatment. Ninety‐three needles of a single brand were collected from a group of eleven similarly trained Australian dentists’ following either single or dual insertion and bone contact. Specimens were examined under scanning electron microscopy at 500x, and both the direction of deformation (either towards or away from lumen) and the extent of deformation were calculated using image processing software. Results showed no correlation between bevel orientation and either the direction (P = 0.8787) or degree (P = 0.0752) of deformation. Significance was demonstrated, regardless of bevel orientation, following multiple needle use with respect to extent of needle tip deformation (P < 0.0001). A clinical recommendation can be made that the dental needle should be routinely replaced when subsequent injections are required during the delivery of a typical IANB.
Weed seed availability, carabid intraspecific interference and their interaction drive weed seed consumption by carabid beetles
Authors: Carbonne Benjamin , Bohan David A. , Charalabidis Alice , Petit Sandrine
Published: July 2019

Carabid beetles may play a role in the regulation of arable weeds, when seed predation is directly density‐dependent and consumption increases more than proportionally with seed density.

We quantified the effect of seed and carabid density on consumption by two carabid species (Poecilus cupreus and Harpalus affinis) of the weed species Taraxacum officinale and Viola arvensis. For each pairing of carabid and weed species, we quantified per capita seed mortality (PCSM) over 72 h under combinations of low and high densities of carabids and seeds, aiming to assess whether per capita consumption increased more or less than proportionally with seed density.

We tested three hypotheses: (i) PCSM is constant as seed availability increases; (ii) for a fixed seed density, PCSM decreases with increasing numbers of carabid conspecifics; and (iii) the response of PCSM changes with the interaction between seed and carabid density.

Without intraspecific competition, we detected a seed density‐independent predation effect, which became inverse density‐dependent over time. At similar seed densities, the presence of conspecific carabids did not affect PCSM, although it led to a faster shift towards inverse density dependence in T. officinale.

The findings of the present study suggest that a sufficiently large carabid numerical response might lead to direct predation density‐dependence.
Systematic scoping review of enhanced recovery protocol recommendations targeting return of gastrointestinal function after colorectal surgery
Authors: Dudi‐Venkata Nagendra N. , Kroon Hidde M. , Bedrikovetski Sergei , Moore James W. , Sammour Tarik
Published: July 2019

Background

Post‐operative ileus (POI) and delayed return of gastrointestinal (GI) function are common complications after colorectal surgery. There is a lack of uniformity in enhanced recovery protocols (ERPs) with regards to interventions used to target these complications. This systematic review aims to categorize and summarize management recommendations available from published ERPs.

Methods

A systematic search of Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library and PubMed databases was performed from January 1990 to May 2018. All studies publishing enhanced recovery or fast‐track or multimodal pathway protocols for colorectal surgery in their full‐text were included. Data on interventions aimed at reducing the duration of POI were extracted, as well as references quoted to support specific interventions.

Results

Of 481 manuscripts screened, 37 published ERPs were identified from 37 studies (18 cohort, seven historical‐control, five guidelines, four randomized controlled trials, one randomized controlled trial protocol, one case series and one narrative review). The most commonly recommended interventions were magnesium‐based laxatives (18 of 37, 48.6%), chewing gum (13 of 37, 35.1%), Alvimopan (6 of 37, 16.2%), lactulose (4 of 37, 10.8%), neostigmine (2 of 37, 5.4%) and bisacodyl (2 of 37, 5.4%). Geographical trends were noted for the various interventions, but high‐quality evidence was only referenced to support the use of Alvimopan.

Conclusion

ERP recommendations specific to interventions targeting POI and return of GI function are varied. While laxatives are the most commonly recommended intervention, there is only weak evidence reported to support this practice.
MicroRNA‐128/homeobox B8 axis regulates ovarian cancer cell progression
Authors: Li Rui , Gong Lingling , Li Pin , Wang Jing , Bi Liangliang
Published: July 2019

MicroRNA‐128 (miR‐128) has been found to be dysregulated and might function as a tumour suppressor in various cancers, including ovarian cancer. However, the underlying mechanism of miR‐128 in ovarian cancer has not been fully understood. The miR‐128 and homeobox B8 (HOXB8) levels in clinical samples and cultured cell lines were measured using qRT‐PCR and/or Western blot analysis. Cell proliferation was assessed using Cell Counting Kit‐8 assay. Cell apoptosis was determined using flow cytometry. The association between miR‐128 and HOXB8 was confirmed using dual‐luciferase reporter assay. Results showed that decreased miR‐128 expression and increased HOXB8 expression were observed in ovarian cancer tissues and cell lines. Transfection with miR‐128 mimics suppressed the cell proliferation and enhanced paclitaxel sensitivity in ovarian cancer cell lines. miR‐128 directly targeted HOXB8 in ovarian cancer cell lines. Knockdown of HOXB8 abolished the effects of miR‐128 inhibitor on ovarian cancer cell proliferation and paclitaxel sensitivity. Summarily, miR‐128 displayed a tumour suppressor role in ovarian cancer via targeting HOXB8. It is supposed that miR‐128 might be effective for targeting therapy for ovarian cancer.
The influence of narrative competence on mental state talk in kindergarten and primary school children
Authors: Tarchi Christian , Bigozzi Lucia , Pinto Giuliana
Published: July 2019

This study investigates the relationships between narrative competence and mental state talk at different age levels. Specifically, we explored whether a higher level of structure in narratives is associated with children's mental state talk, and whether this effect is moderated by age (kindergarten, lower and upper primary school). The participants in the study were 172 Italian children. The children were asked to tell a story and their productions were coded for narrative structural level and mental state talk. Data showed higher levels of narrative structure were associated with a higher frequency of emotional, cognitive, moral, and socio‐relational terms. Results of the present study contributed to improve our understanding about how mental state talk and narrative competence are associated in different ways at different ages. This result suggests that children may develop in the ability to coordinate mental state talk and narrative structure as an effect of both, age and schooling.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Theory of mind and language are interconnected.

Theory of mind can be assessed through mental state talk.

Mental state talk is elicited through narrative tasks.

What does this study add?

Narrative competence is associated with mental state talk.

The first years of primary school seem to represent an important transition in children's development in narrative competence and MST.

Children may develop in the ability to coordinate mental state talk and narrative structure as an effect of both, age and schooling.
Repurposing drugs targeting the P2X7 receptor to limit hyperinflammation and disease during influenza virus infection
Authors: Rosli Sarah , Kirby Francis J. , Lawlor Kate E. , Rainczuk Kate , Drummond Grant R. , Mansell Ashley , Tate Michelle D.
Published: July 2019

Background and Purpose

Severe influenza A virus (IAV) infections are associated with damaging hyperinflammation that can be fatal. There is an urgent need to identify new therapeutic agents to treat severe and pathogenic IAV infections. Repurposing of drugs with an existing and studied pharmacokinetic and safety profile is a highly attractive potential strategy. We have previously demonstrated that the NLRP3 inflammasome plays time‐dependent roles during severe IAV infection with early protective responses and later dysregulation leading to excessive inflammation, contributing to disease severity.

Experimental Approach

We tested two existing drugs, probenecid and AZ11645373, to target P2X7 receptor signalling and dampen NLRP3 inflammasome responses during severe IAV infection. In vitro, the drugs were assessed for their ability to limit NLRP3 inflammasome‐dependent IL‐1β secretion in macrophage cultures. In vivo, their effects were assessed on hyperinflammation and disease during severe IAV infection in C57BL/6 mice.

Key Results

Treatment of macrophages with probenecid or AZ11645373 in vitro diminished NLRP3 inflammasome‐dependent IL‐1β secretion. Intranasal therapeutic treatment of mice displaying severe influenza disease with probenecid or AZ11645373 reduced pro‐inflammatory cytokine production, cellular infiltrates in the lung, and provided protection against disease. Importantly, these drugs could be administered at either early or late stage of disease and provide therapeutic efficacy.

Conclusions and Implications

Our study demonstrates that the anti‐inflammatory drugs probenecid and AZ11645373, which have documented pharmacokinetics and safety profiles in humans, are effective at dampening hyperinflammation and severe influenza disease providing potentially new therapeutic strategies for treating severe or pathogenic IAV infections.
Screen time and childhood overweight/obesity: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Fang Kehong , Mu Min , Liu Kai , He Yuna
Published: July 2019

Background

Controlling childhood overweight/obesity would help early prevention on children from getting chronic noncommunicable diseases, exposing to screen for long periods may increase the risk of overweight/obesity due to lack of physical activity and tend to intake too much energy, and the relationship between screen time and overweight/obesity is inconsistent. Thus, the object of the present study was to estimate the relationship between screen time and overweight/obesity in children (<18 years) by systematically review prevalence studies.

Methods

We collected data from relevant studies published up to May 2019 using predefined inclusion/exclusion criteria. And all the literatures were searched in PubMed, ScienceDirect, Embase, and Web of Science.

Results

A total of 16 studies met the criteria and were included in the meta‐analysis. When compared with the screen time <2 hr/day, an increased overweight/obesity risk among children was shown in the screen time ≥2 hr/day (OR = 1.67; 95% CI [1.48, 1.88], P < .0001). The subgroup analysis showed a positive association between the different types of screen time and overweight/obesity among children.

Conclusion

Based on our study, increasing screen time could be a risk factor for being overweight/obesity in children and adolescents.
Human overexploitation and extinction risk correlates of Chinese snakes
Authors: Chuanwu Chen , Yanfu Qu , Xianfeng Zhou , Yanping Wang
Published: July 2019

China is one of the countries with the richest snake biodiversity in the world. However, about one‐third of all 236 species are now considered threatened, partially due to the intense human overexploitation. Despite that, to date, no study has explicitly investigated the patterns and processes of extinction and threats of Chinese snakes, or between human exploited and unexploited snake subgroups. We addressed the following three questions: 1) which snake families proportionally include more human exploited species than expected by chance? 2) Which species traits and extrinsic factors are correlated with their extinction risk? 3) Are there differences between human exploited and unexploited species in terms of patterns and processes of extinction? We found that the family Elapidae contained a significantly higher number of exploited species. Considering eight species traits and four extrinsic factors, we performed phylogenetic correlation tests, finding that small geographic range size, large body length, oviparous reproduction, diurnal activity and high human exploitation were important in determining the extinction risk of all Chinese snakes. Moreover, human exploited snakes had a higher percentage of threatened species and large‐bodied species than unexploited snakes. Extinction risk of human exploited species was related to body length, reproduction mode and activity period, whereas that of human unexploited species were associated with geographic range size, microhabitat and annual temperature. Overall, we highlight the phylogenetic non‐random exploitation of snakes, and different factors underlying species response to human overexploitation. We suggest that conservation priority should be given to exploitation‐prone families and species with extinction‐prone traits, as identified in this study. Moreover, human exploited and unexploited species should be managed considering different strategies since their extinction risk was associated with different ecological traits. Conservation actions should also focus on preventing human threats, such as human overexploitation and habitat loss, for the effective preservation of Chinese snakes.
Plant domestication disrupts biodiversity effects across major crop types
Authors: Chacón‐Labella Julia , García Palacios Pablo , Matesanz Silvia , Schöb Christian , Milla Rubén
Published: July 2019

Plant diversity fosters productivity in natural ecosystems. Biodiversity effects might increase agricultural yields at no cost in additional inputs. However, the effects of diversity on crop assemblages are inconsistent, probably because crops and wild plants differ in a range of traits relevant to plant–plant interactions. We tested whether domestication has changed the potential of crop mixtures to over‐yield by comparing the performance and traits of major crop species and those of their wild progenitors under varying levels of diversity. We found stronger biodiversity effects in mixtures of wild progenitors, due to larger selection effects. Variation in selection effects was partly explained by within‐mixture differences in leaf size. Our results indicate that domestication might disrupt the ability of crops to benefit from diverse neighbourhoods via reduced trait variance. These results highlight potential limitations of current crop mixtures to over‐yield and the potential of breeding to re‐establish variance and increase mixture performance.
The historian beneath the skin: Embodiment as methodology in colonial India
Authors: Topdar Sudipa
Published: July 2019

While the pioneering historians of medicine and sexuality in colonial India have left us a rich scholarly legacy, this article contributes to the history of the body by examining recent historiographical trends outside these realms. I provoke and ask: in what other imaginative ways can we understand our body, its meanings, and its engagement with culture and self. I use embodiment as an analytical category and pedagogical device that offers promising possibilities to access wider social, economic, and epistemological shifts in history. When intersected with other critical concepts such as gender, race, nation, class, caste, and sexuality, embodiment becomes a bridge to the past for understanding how key moments were experienced and lived. Embodiment provides a point of convergence at which both the discursive body and its experiences are given equal attention in order to understand histories. I begin this article with an overview of foundational moments in the historiography of embodiment as a category of historical analysis. Subsequently, I explore three main axes of historiographical pursuits keeping embodiment as the pivot: first, social inscriptions on the body; second, the performance of gender; and third, embodiment as experience.
lilacs search strategy for systematic reviews of diagnostic test accuracy studies
Authors: Pereira Rogério Aparecido , Puga Maria Eduarda dos Santos , Atallah Álvaro Nagib , Macedo Elizeu Coutinho , Macedo Cristiane Rufino
Published: July 2019

Background

There are few publications on search strategies to identify diagnostic test accuracy (DTA) studies in lilacs.

Objective

To translate and customise medline search strategies for use in lilacs and assess their retrieval of studies in Cochrane DTA systematic reviews.

Method

We developed a six‐step process to translate and customise medline search strategies for use in lilacs (iAHx interface). We identified medline search strategies of published Cochrane DTA reviews, translated/customised them for use in lilacs, ran searches in lilacs and compared the retrieval results of our translated search strategy versus the one used in the published reviews.

Results

Our lilacs search strategies translated/customised from the medline strategies retrieved studies in 70 Cochrane DTA reviews. Only 29 of these reviews stated that they had searched the lilacs database and 21 published their lilacs search strategies. Few had used the lilacs database search tools, none exploded the subject headings, and 86% used only English terms.

Conclusion

Translating and tailoring a medline search strategy for the lilacs database resulted in the retrieval of DTA studies that would have been missed otherwise.
Increasing shelf life of strawberries (Fragaria ssp) by using a banana starch‐chitosan‐Aloe vera gel composite edible coating
Authors: Pinzon Magda I. , Sanchez Leidy T. , Garcia Omar R. , Gutierrez Ramón , Luna Julio C. , Villa Cristian C.
Published: July 2019

Strawberries are among the most consumed fruits in the world, however, they are highly susceptible to both microbial and fungal contamination during storage. In this study, we used composite films made from banana starch‐chitosan and Aloe vera gel (AV gel) at different AV gel concentrations. Our results show that AV gel inclusion can significantly reduce fungal decay, increasing strawberries shelf life up to 15 day of storage at the highest AV gel concentration (20%), while maintaining their physicochemical properties, such as colour and firmness. Weight loss was reduced 5% with respect of the uncoated fruit. Our results can be attributed to the limited water vapour transfer allowed by the edible coating, this is the result of the crosslinking effect of the different AV gel and starch molecules that allows a more controlled decay of the strawberries in commercial storage conditions.
Nanoemulsion as advanced edible coatings to preserve the quality of fresh‐cut fruits and vegetables: a review
Authors: Hasan S. M. Kamrul , Ferrentino Giovanna , Scampicchio Matteo
Published: July 2019

The increasing consumer's demand regarding the healthy diet has promoted the research towards novel approaches for preserving minimally processed fruits and vegetables without the necessity of using preservatives. Emulsion‐based edible coatings technology is considered a valuable alternative to improve fresh‐cut fruit and vegetable quality. This review discusses some recent advances for the preservation of the quality and safety of fresh‐cut fruits and vegetables with respect to the use of nanoemulsion‐based edible coatings as carrier of functional compounds such as antimicrobial agents, antioxidants and texture enhancers. It focuses especially on the use of natural functional compounds in food preservation as an alternative to synthetic additives. Moreover, the preparation and characterisation of nanoemulsion are also reviewed.
Molecular prevalence of thalassemia and hemoglobinopathies among the Lao Loum Group in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic
Authors: Phanmany Sayphonh , Chanprasert Supantitra , Munkongdee Thongperm , Svasti Saovaros , Leecharoenkiat Kamonlak
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Thalassemias and hemoglobinopathies are the most prevalent inherited anemias detected in South East Asians. These disorders represent not only a clinical health problem but also a socioeconomic problem for this region. Regarding the prevention and control of thalassemias and hemoglobinopathies in the Lao PDR, screening and diagnostic strategies should be strongly considered. The knowledge about the prevalence and molecular genotyping of thalassemias and hemoglobinopathies among the Lao Loum group, which includes the majority of Lao people, is now limited, making the prevention and control of thalassemias difficult.

Methods

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of thalassemia among Lao Loum subjects of reproductive age. Multiplex gap PCR and direct sequencing were used to investigate the mutations of α‐globin and β‐globin genes.

Results

Thalassemias and hemoglobinopathies were detected in 154 of 354 (43.50%) patients, and 22 different genotypes were identified in this cohort. Remarkably, high frequencies of hemoglobin E, α0 –thalassemia (‐‐SEA), and α+ –thalassemia (‐α3.7) were noted. A variety of hematologic features was observed, including co‐inheritance of heterozygous HbE and heterozygous α‐thalassemia, which was associated with significantly lower levels of MCV and MCH values than those observed in typical HbE heterozygotes. Female participants who were heterozygous for β0 or co‐inheritance of heterozygous βE with heterozygous α‐thalassemia exhibited mild anemia.

Conclusion

Our data show that thalassemias and hemoglobinopathies have become health problems imposing a serious burden in the Lao PDR. Prevention programs aimed at decreasing the incidence of severe thalassemia diseases should be designed and initiated.
Performance evaluation of new Abbott Alinity hq hematology analyzer
Authors: Woo Kwang‐Sook , Jeong In‐Hwa , An Gyu‐Dae , Lim Hyeon‐Ho , Han Jin‐Yeong
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Abbott Alinity hq is a next‐generation automated hematology analyzer providing complete blood count (CBC) with 6‐part white blood cells (WBC) differential counts. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance of the analyzer to verify the diagnostic and clinical utility of the Abbott Alinity hq automated system.

Methods

We evaluated specimen stability, precision, linearity, carry‐over, and method comparison to assess the performance of Alinity hq. For comparison of the Alinity hq with Sysmex XN‐9000, totally 314 samples from adult and pediatric patients including both normal and abnormal hematology profiles were analyzed in parallel. The Alinity hq was also compared with the manual differential counts for the same 314 samples.

Results

At 4°C, the Alinity hq analyzer showed no significant changes in CBC and WBC differential count up to 48 hours. When stored at room temperature (18‐25°C), all parameters except the mean platelet volume (MPV) were stable up to 36 hours. The Abbott Alinity hq analyzer demonstrated excellent reproducibility and between‐batch precision for all CBC and WBC differential parameters. WBC, red blood cells (RBC), hemoglobin (HGB), and platelets showed good linearity and acceptable carry‐over. Comparison with a Sysmex XN‐9000 analyzer and manual 400‐cell differential showed excellent correlation for CBC and WBC differential count parameters (correlation coefficient = 0.815‐0.999) except for mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and basophils.

Conclusion

We performed initial validation studies and confirmed performance specifications on specimen stability, precision, linearity, carry‐over, and method comparison. The Abbott Alinity hq analyzer showed good analytical performance for all standard CBC parameters.
Modeling and improving the logistic distribution network of a hospital
Authors: Madelin Gabriel , Lahrichi Nadia
Published: July 2019

This paper discusses using simulation and optimization to improve the hospital‐internal distribution network, for example, how to schedule and deliver the goods, which items should go on which cart, how to manage the variable consumption in the units, etc. We use a real case to build a simulation model to test various processes and incorporate an optimization algorithm to find the best distribution routes. The results highlight concrete improvements that could be made. These are the use of the same cart for different types of supplies to reduce the number of routes, the reduction of the distribution frequency for certain care units, and the use of optimized routes to reduce the transportation time.
Operationalization of the new Pain and Disability Drivers Management model: A modified Delphi survey of multidisciplinary pain management experts
Authors: Tousignant‐Laflamme Yannick , Cook Chad E. , Mathieu Annie , Naye Florian , Wellens Frédéric , Wideman Timothy , Martel Marc‐Olivier , Lam Olivier Tri‐Trinh
Published: July 2019

Background

We recently proposed the Pain and Disability Drivers Management (PDDM) model, which was designed to outline comprehensive factors driving pain and disability in low back pain (LBP). Although we have hypothesized and proposed 41 elements, which make up the model's five domains, we have yet to assess the external validity of the PDDM's elements by expert consensus.

Research objectives

This study aimed to reach consensus among experts regarding the different elements that should be included in each domain of the PDDM model.

Relevance

The PDDM may assist clinicians and researchers in the delivery of targeted care and ultimately enhance treatment outcomes in LBP.

Methods

Using a modified Delphi survey, a two‐round online questionnaire was administered to a group of experts in musculoskeletal pain management. Participants were asked to rate the relevance of each element proposed within the model. Participants were also invited to add and rate new elements. Consensus was defined by a greater than or equal to 75% level of agreement.

Results

A total of 47 (round 1) and 33 (round 2) participants completed the survey. Following the first round, 38 of 41 of the former model elements reached consensus, and 10 new elements were proposed and later rated in the second round. Following this second round, consensus was reached for all elements (10 new + 3 from first round), generating a final model composed of 51 elements.

Conclusion

This expert consensus–derived list of clinical elements related to the management of LBP represents a first step in the validation of the PDDM model.
Defend or raise? Optimising flood risk reduction strategies
Authors: Lendering Kasper T. , Jonkman Sebastiaan N. , van Ledden Mathijs , Vrijling Johannes K.
Published: July 2019

Flood risk reduction can be provided by interventions such as raising land or constructing flood defences. This paper introduces an approach to optimise the selection of risk reduction strategies. It expands existing economic optimization approaches for flood defences, by introducing (largely) analytical formulations to include the effects of approaches to mitigate flood consequences. The method considers the size of the protected area and associated damages, the costs and dimensioning of interventions and the likelihood of flooding. It is applied in several practical cases. Within the context of this economic model, we conclude that a system of flood defences is more economical than a landfill for larger areas. Fills are preferred for small areas and/or for low costs. A combination of strategies is preferred when the value protected by the flood defence is low compared to the value protected by the fill, or when the high value development is relatively small in size. The sensitivity of outcomes to the choice of the main input parameters is presented, as well as implications of the results and selection of strategies in developing and developed countries. Overall, this approach supports decision makers in developing effective strategies to manage and reduce flood risk.
Gut microbial profile in biliary atresia: a case‐control study
Authors: Wang Junfeng , Qian Tian , Jiang Jingying , Yang Yifan , Shen Zhen , Huang Yanlei , Chen Gong , Zheng Shan , Dong Rui
Published: July 2019

Background and Aim

Biliary atresia (BA) is a progressive fibro‐inflammatory cholangiopathy with an unclear etiology. Various liver disorders are associated with an altered microbiome. However, gut microbiome in BA remains unknown. Here, we performed a case‐control study to investigate the gut microbiota in BA.

Methods

A cross‐sectional analysis was first conducted for 34 BA patients and 34 healthy controls. Then we investigated the shift in gut microbiota 2 weeks after the Kasai procedure in 16 BA patients. Gut microbiome was initially analyzed using 16S ribosome RNA gene sequencing and further validated by metagenomic sequencing. Fecal bile acids were determined using ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography.

Results

Compared with healthy controls, BA showed lower diversity and significant structural segregation in the microbiome. At phylum level, Proteobacteria numbers increased, whereas those of Bacteroidetes decreased in BA. At genus level, several potential pathogens such as Streptococcus and Klebsiella thrived in BA, while numbers for Bifidobacterium and several butyrate‐producing bacteria declined. The microbiome was also disturbed after the Kasai procedure. Operational taxonomic units responding to BA showed significant correlation with liver function. Furthermore, the abundance ratio of Streptococcus/Bacteroides showed great promise in distinguishing BA from healthy controls. Intestinal bile acids were dramatically decreased in BA, and Clostridium XIVa positively correlated with the ratio of primary/secondary bile acids.

Conclusions

Gut microbial dysbiosis, may be caused by decreased bile acids, was associated with liver function and had a good diagnostic potential for BA. Therefore, further exploration of gut microbiota may provide important insights into their potential diagnostic and therapeutic benefits.
Is one‐line hybrid rice coming?
Authors: Hu Xingming , Wang Fanmiao , Matsuoka Makoto
Published: July 2019

Hybrid rice proved to be high‐yielding and is of great importance to food safety worldwide. By using gene editing techniques, we generated one‐line hybrid rice by preventing meiosis from occurring, which can largely contribute to maintaining the hybrid dominance.
Phaeohyphomycosis caused by Phialophora americana with CARD9 mutation and 20‐year literature review in China
Authors: Huang Chen , Zhang Yi , Song Yinggai , Wan Zhe , Wang Xiaowen , Li Ruoyu
Published: July 2019

Background

Phaeohyphomycosis is a chronic cutaneous, subcutaneous or systemic mycotic infection caused by various dematiaceous fungi. The diverse clinical manifestations and poor prognosis of phaeohyphomycosis necessitate studies on it to better recognise the disease and improve its management.

Objectives

To investigate the epidemiology, aetiology, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of phaeohyphomycosis in China over the past 20 years, and to study the first case of phaeohyphomycosis caused by Phialophora americana and the genetic and immunological mechanisms.

Patients/Methods

Clinical and laboratory findings of the case were studied, and the patient's DNA was sequenced for CARD9, followed by immunological studies using patient's PBMCs. Cases of phaeohyphomycosis in China from 1998 to 2018 in both the Chinese and English literature were collected and analysed, including 45 articles and 46 patients.

Results

We confirmed the patient holding a homozygous frameshift mutation of CARD9, which led to impairment of pro‐inflammatory cytokine production, and lower Th17‐ and Th22‐associated responses upon fungus‐specific stimulation. From the literature review, we revealed that the clinical presentations of phaeohyphomycosis were diverse. Diagnoses were established mainly on the basis of histopathology and fungal culture. Oral itraconazole, voriconazole, and posaconazole are the first choices for treatment, and a combination with surgical excision is also recommended.

Conclusions

Our study establishes that obtaining detailed histories is vital for understanding the immune state and that patients with recurrent or chronic phaeohyphomycosis in the absence of known immunodeficiencies should be tested for CARD9 mutations. We hope our findings will aid clinicians in the diagnoses and treatment of such infections.
Concept analysis of nurse retention
Authors: Efendi Ferry , Kurniati Anna , Bushy Angeline , Gunawan Joko
Published: July 2019

Nurse retention is widely acknowledged as a crucial international workforce issue, yet the concept remains ambiguous. This study focuses on a concept analysis in an effort to clarify the attributes of nurse retention, including its antecedents and consequences. The Walker and Avant approach was applied to analyze the concept of nurse retention. Four key attributes of nurse retention were identified in the analysis, specifically motivation, intention, and individual decision; strategy and intervention; geographic context; and attachment to work. Antecedents of nurse retention included the healthcare system at the macro level, the health care facility, health personnel, and living conditions. Retention has consequences for individual nurses, the healthcare organization, and the overall health system. Our concept analysis provides clarification to better understand nurse retention along with its implications for the healthcare workforce. The analysis further emphasizes the importance of retention as a comprehensive priority issue for human resources when recruiting and maintaining the nursing workforce internationally.
Conceptualizing throughput legitimacy: Procedural mechanisms of accountability, transparency, inclusiveness and openness in EU governance
Authors: Schmidt Vivien , Wood Matthew
Published: July 2019

This symposium demonstrates the potential for throughput legitimacy as a concept for shedding empirical light on the strengths and weaknesses of multi‐level governance, as well as challenging the concept theoretically. This article introduces the symposium by conceptualizing throughput legitimacy as an ‘umbrella concept’, encompassing a constellation of normative criteria not necessarily empirically interrelated. It argues that in order to interrogate multi‐level governance processes in all their complexity, it makes sense for us to develop normative standards that are not naïve about the empirical realities of how power is exercised within multi‐level governance, or how it may interact with legitimacy. We argue that while throughput legitimacy has its normative limits, it can be substantively useful for these purposes. While being no replacement for input and output legitimacy, throughput legitimacy offers distinctive normative criteria—accountability, transparency, inclusiveness and openness—and points towards substantive institutional reforms.