bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitro susceptibility testing for the emerging pathogenic mould Veronaea botryosa and pharmacokinetic parameters of natamycin in white sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus)
Authors: Coleman Denver , Martínez‐López Beatriz , Knych Heather , Yun Susan , Kenelty Kirsten , Tomasi Valentina , Soto Esteban
Published: July 2022

Systemic phaeohyphomycosis caused by the dematiaceous mould Veronaea botryosa is an important emergent disease affecting captive sturgeons (Acipenser spp.). The disease, colloquially known as “fluid belly,” causes morbidity and mortality in adult animals resulting in significant economic losses to the aquaculture industry. Advancements in therapeutic and prophylactic protocols have been partially hampered by the lack of basic protocols to grow and manipulate the fungus in the laboratory. In this study, microbroth kinetic protocols were established to analyse V. botryosa growth in seven nutrient media at different temperatures. Generated area under the curve (AUC) indicates that potato flake dextrose broth (PFD‐B) and Sabouraud dextrose broth (SD‐B) incubated at 25°C provided the greatest growth. The generated protocol was then used to test the susceptibility of V. botryosa isolates to natamycin, a macrolide polyene antifungal agent used as a food preservative. SD‐B and RPMI with l‐glutamine (+RPMI‐B) containing different concentrations of natamycin were inoculated with V. botryosa conidia and the generated growth curves were compared using cubic smoothing spline model. The non‐inhibitory concentration and minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC; decrease of AUC by 90% compared with control) were determined to be <1 μg/mL and 16 μg/mL of natamycin in SD‐B media. To gain an understanding of the tissue distribution of natamycin in white sturgeon, pharmacokinetics was tested. Based on pharmacokinetic parameters determined in this study and targeting a blood concentration >16 μg/mL for 24 h, an intravenous dose >1 g/kg would be needed, making the use of this drug unrealistic. The information presented in this study can be used to investigate susceptibility of pathogenic fungus to antimicrobials and disinfectants as well as support future therapeutic protocols against emerging fungal diseases like fluid belly.
Do credit market accessibility and legal protection shape corporate innovation?
Authors: Shen Danlin , Chen Carl R. , Yan Xinyan , Yi Zhihong
Published: July 2022

We examine the effects of credit market accessibility and legal protection on corporate innovation in a pseudo‐multinational setting at the firm level, emphasizing the channels through which corporate innovation is affected. A horse race suggests that credit market accessibility facilitates innovation more than legal protection does. Credit market accessibility promotes innovation by alleviating financial constraints through reduced bank loan costs, larger bank loans, and more long‐term loans. Consistent with our reasoning, the effects are greater for private enterprises than for state‐owned firms.
An image denoising method of picking robot vision based on feature pyramid network
Authors: Chen Jiqing , Zhang Hongdu , Zhang Haiyan , Ma Aoqiang , Su Yousheng , Li Wenqu
Published: July 2022

Deep learning has been widely used in removing image noise, but the blind denoising problem in agriculture limits the accuracy of citrus recognition by picking robots, and most denoising methods do not preserve the texture details of the image well. To solve these problems, this study proposes a multi‐module image denoising method based on feature pyramid network. The algorithm is based on the pyramid network structure, adding modules such as attention mechanism, dilated convolution, and feature fusion to denoise images. The attention mechanism and dilated convolution enhance the extraction of noisy features. The feature fusion module fuses the feature maps of each layer to solve the problem of incomplete image detail texture preservation. The experimental results of this algorithm on different datasets show that the performance of our method on various datasets with different noise levels is superior, and it is solving the problem of real image denoising. It is effective to perform both on and save the image texture details, which proves the practicability of the method in this study. After using this method to remove the real noise in the image, the average score of citrus detection accuracy is 52.4% higher than that before denoising.

Practical Applications

Citrus picking is a labor‐intensive work. Traditionally, citrus picking depends on manpower. This harvesting method has high cost and low efficiency, which seriously hinders the development of citrus industry. In this study, the pyramid network structure is used to denoise the citrus image by adding modules such as attention mechanism, dilated convolution, and feature fusion, so as to guide the robot to recognize the citrus and improve the production efficiency. It is of great value to the recognition technology of industrial citrus picking robot.
Impact of psychological resilience on walking capacity in older adults following hip fracture
Authors: Soliman Germine , Fortinsky Richard H. , Mangione Kathleen , Beamer Brock A. , Magder Larry , Binder Ellen F. , Craik Rebecca , Gruber‐Baldini Ann , Orwig Denise , Resnick Barbara , Wakefield Dorothy B. , Magaziner Jay
Published: July 2022

Background

Community‐dwelling older adults experiencing hip fracture often fail to achieve adequate walking capacity following surgery and rehabilitation. Effects of psychological factors on post‐fracture walking capacity are poorly understood. Accordingly, this paper investigates effects of psychological resilience on observed walking capacity measures in older adults following hip fracture, controlling for important covariates.

Methods

Data were drawn from the Community Ambulation Project, a clinical trial of 210 community‐dwelling adults aged ≥60 years who experienced a minimal trauma hip fracture and were randomized to one of two 16‐week home‐based physical therapist‐guided interventions. Psychological resilience was measured at study baseline using the 6‐item Brief Resilience Scale (BRS); scores were classified into groups in order to distinguish levels of self‐reported resilience. Walking capacity was assessed at study baseline and 16 weeks later using 4‐Meter Gait Speed (4MGS), 50‐Foot Walk Test (50FWT), and 6‐Minute Walk Distance (SMWD). In multivariate analyses of covariance in which 16‐week follow‐up values of each walking measure were outcomes, covariates included clinical trial arm, gender, age, and baseline values of: walking measure corresponding to the outcome; body mass index; depressive symptom severity; degree of psychological optimism; cognitive status; informal caregiver need; and days from hospital admission to randomization.

Results

Increases between baseline and 16 weeks later in mean gait speed in meters/sec (m/s) and walking distance in meters (m) in 4MGS, 50FWT and SMWD were 0.06 m/s (p = 0.061), 0.11 m/s (p < 0.01), and 25.5 m (p = 0.056) greater, respectively, in the most resilient BRS group compared to the least resilient BRS group.

Conclusion

Higher levels of psychological resilience were associated with greater walking speed and distance. Psychological resilience represents a potentially clinically important pathway and intervention target, toward the goal of improving walking capacity among older adults known to have substantial residual disability following hip fracture.
A fast approach to discard false negative susceptible lettuce genotypes to Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lactucae race 1
Authors: Sanna Martina , Gilardi Giovanna , Gullino Maria Lodovica , Mezzalama Monica
Published: July 2022

Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lactucae (FOL), the causal agent of Fusarium wilt of lettuce, is a seedborne and soilborne pathogen that causes severe losses everywhere lettuce is cultivated. Genetic resistance is potentially the most effective strategy to control the pathogen, but susceptibility evaluation of breeding material with conventional methods carried out under controlled conditions require 3–5 weeks before symptoms severity can be accurately assessed on young plants. A race‐specific quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR) protocol was developed and validated according to the international validation standard (EPPO, PM7/98) as an aid to speed up the process. The experiments were carried out on five lettuce cultivars grown in the greenhouse and four cultivars grown in microcosm with known levels of susceptibility to the pathogen. The qPCR test carried out on seedlings grown in the microcosm detected the pathogen already 7 days after the inoculation. However, the correlation between the n. cell/μl of the pathogen and the symptoms expression was reliable only at 14 days from the inoculation both, in the greenhouse and in the microcosm assay. A high quantity (from 2.9x102 to 1.9x103 cells/μl) of FOL race 1 corresponds to a high susceptibility of the cultivars and low quantity (0–56.9 cells/μl) is correlated to a resistant response of the cultivar.
Tamoxifen improves homeostasis in the peri‐implant bone remodeling of osseointegrated titanium implants
Authors: Fiorin Luiz Guilherme , Matheus Henrique Rinaldi , Ervolino Edilson , Canciani Elena , Pellegrini Gaia , Dellavia Claudia , Maiorana Carlo , de Almeida Juliano Milanezi
Published: July 2022

Background

The purpose of this preclinical study was to evaluate the influence of tamoxifen (TAM) on the peri‐implant bone remodeling of osseointegrated titanium implants in ovariectomized female rats.

Materials and Methods

Seventy‐two female rats underwent bilateral ovariectomy 20 weeks before implants placement. One titanium implant was inserted in each tibia of the animals. Six weeks following the implant surgery, animals were randomly divided into two experimental groups (n = 36), which received either saline solution (SS) or tamoxifen citrate (TAM) via gavage until euthanasia. Euthanasia was performed at 30, 60, and 90 days after the first gavage. Assessments of bone to implant contact (BIC), bone ingrowth percentage (BIN), morphological description of cellular and tissue reactions, immunohistochemistry for the detection of bone morphogenetic protein 2/4 (BMP2/4), runt‐related transcription factor 2 (RUNX‐2), osteocalcin (OCN) and tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP), and bone chemical composition through scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy were performed.

Results

Tamoxifen group presented higher BIC, higher BIN, higher RUNX‐2 and OCN, lower TRAP‐positive cells/mm2, and no differences regarding BMP‐2/4 positive cells/mm2 than SS group in all periods. TAM group also showed higher Ca/P rate than SS group.

Conclusion

Tamoxifen enhanced the remodeling of the bone surrounding titanium implants in ovariectomized rats.
Effects of kangaroo care on pain relief in premature infants during painful procedures: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Fang , Zhang Qing , Ni Zhi Hong , Lv Hai Tao
Published: July 2022

AIM

This study aimed to evaluate effects of kangaroo care on pain relief in premature infants during painful procedures.

Design

A meta‐analysis.

Methods

Eight databases (Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, China Biology Medicine [CBM], China Science and Technology Journal Database [CSTJ], China National Knowledge Infrastructure [CNKI], and WanFang Data) were systematically reviewed from inception to November 2021 for randomized controlled and crossover trials.

Results

Thirteen studies, including 2311 infants (kangaroo care: 1153, control: 1158) were analyzed. Kangaroo care had a moderate effect on pain relief during painful procedures in premature infants at a gestational age of 32–36 + 6 weeks but no effect at 28–31 + 6 weeks. Furthermore, 15 or 30 min of kangaroo care had a moderate effect and could markedly relieve pain at the instant of and 30/60 s after, had a small effect at 90 s after, and no effect at 120 s after the procedure.

Practice Implications

Kangaroo care may be an effective nonpharmacologic alternative therapy to relieve procedural pain in premature infants born at a gestational age of 32–36 + 6 weeks.
The role of sleep and wakefulness in the recognition of emotional pictures
Authors: Carollo Giacomo , Degasperi Giorgia , Cellini Nicola
Published: July 2022

Sleep has a beneficial effect on memory consolidation. However, its role in emotional memory is currently debated. Here, we investigate the role of sleep and a similar period of wakefulness on the recognition of emotional pictures and subjective emotional reactivity. Forty participants without any major physical, neurological or psychological condition were randomly assigned to the Sleep First Group or Wake First Group. The two groups underwent the encoding phase of an emotional images task with negative and neutral pictures at either 09:00 hours (Wake First Group) or 21:00 hours (Sleep First Group). Then participants performed an immediate recognition test (T1), and two delayed tests 12 hr (T2) and 24 hr (T3) later. Perceived arousal and valence levels were collected for each picture. Sleep parameters were recorded at participants' homes with a portable device. No differences were observed at T1, whereas at T2 the Sleep First Group showed a higher memory performance than the Wake First Group. At T3, performance decreased in the Sleep First Group (who spent the previous 12 hr awake), but not in the Wake First Group (who slept during the previous 12 hr). Overall, negative images were remembered better than neutral ones. We also observed a positive association between memory performance for negative items at the immediate test and the percentage of rapid eye movement sleep the night before the encoding. Our data confirm that negative information is remembered better over time than neutral information, and that sleep benefits the retention of declarative information. However, sleep seems not to preferentially improve emotional memory, although it may affect the encoding of negative information.
Hierarchical partitioning of multiple niche dimensions among ecomorphs, species and sexes in Puerto Rican anoles
Authors: Ingram T. , Giery S. T. , Losos J. B.
Published: July 2022

Assemblages of co‐occurring closely related species tend to vary in one or more niche dimensions, but niche partitioning also occurs at levels of biological organization above and below the species level. Niche space occupied by a community may involve variation among groups of species, such as guilds or ecomorphs, and among sexes or individuals within species. We examined variation in structural microhabitat, thermal habitat, and prey size and composition in an assemblage of six anole lizards belonging to three habitat specialist ecomorph categories in a Puerto Rican rainforest. As predicted, ecomorphs were most distinct in structural microhabitat, while species within ecomorphs varied mainly in thermal habitat. Ecological sex dimorphism was limited, and considerable variation in all dimensions was unexplained or potentially related to individual‐level niche variation. Our analysis largely corroborates the view of anole adaptive radiation and community assembly as involving structural habitat divergence among ecomorphs and secondary divergence among species using different climatic niches. A hierarchical approach to niche variation presents opportunities for taking a comparative approach to understanding how ecological diversity is partitioned within communities.
Molecular typing and epidemiology profiles of human adenovirus infection among children with severe acute respiratory infection in Huzhou, China
Authors: Xu D. , Ji L. , Chen L. , Wu X.
Published: July 2022

Human adenoviruses (HAdVs) are prevalent worldwide and are a common cause of respiratory tract infection in people of all ages. However, little is known about HAdV infection among children with severe acute respiratory infection (SARI). The present study retrospectively analysed the molecular typing and epidemiological characteristics of HAdV-positive samples from children with SARI from January 2017 to December 2021 in Huzhou. The results showed that 89 (8·27%) of 1078 SARI paediatric patients were positive for HAdVs. Children <5 years of age accounted for 87·64% of the positive cases. The peak seasons for HAdV infection were the first quarter and the fourth quarter. In addition, HAdV-B and HAdV-C were circulating among paediatric patients with SARI, of which the B3 genotype (n = 30, 51·72%) was the most prevalent and was detected every year, indicating that B3 is the main epidemic strain in the Huzhou area, followed by C1 (n = 9, 15·52%), C2 (n = 7, 12·07%) and B7 (n = 5, 8·62%). These findings provide a benchmark for future epidemiology and prevention strategies for HAdVs.
THE SILENCES SHAPING THE MEMORY OF THE MAPUCHE IN THE NATIONAL HISTORICAL MUSEUM OF CHILE
Authors: Vial Lecaros Ximena
Published: July 2022

Abstract

A widespread link between the process of nation‐building and the rise of museums is evident in late‐nineteenth‐century Latin America. The Chilean National Historical Museum (MHN) was founded in 1873 with the purpose of exhibiting the nation's heritage, beginning with the Spanish colonization. This article focuses on examining the narrative displayed in the MHN, particularly the silences surrounding the Indigenous Mapuche. It analyzes the implications this absence brings to the collective memory of the nation. Using museum catalogs, newspapers, and nineteenth‐century literature, this research traces the contrast between how Indigenous and colonial artifacts are exhibited in the museum, wherein the Mapuche are framed aesthetically, therefore relegating them to the past. By stripping from them any contemporary existence, the Mapuche are relegated to an anecdote of ancient times. I document how the primary collection of the museum reproduces a narrative by which European heritage is the starting point of the nation's progress, silencing the voice of Mapuche history and hence producing a script that lacks a nuanced understanding of Chile's Indigenous reality. At a time when Chile is experiencing violent conflict in the Araucanía region, the MHN obscures Mapuche identity and inhibits a dialogue between Indigenous communities and the state. [museum, Mapuche, national identity, colonialism, Indigenous]
A case of CIC‐rearranged sarcoma with CIC‐LEUTX gene fusion in spinal cord
Authors: Song Kun , Huang Yu , Xia Chun‐Duo , Zhu Hai‐Qing , Wang Juan
Published: July 2022

A 16‐year‐old male was admitted to the hospital for weakness of both lower extremities. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an intraspinal extramedullary subdural mass at the thoracic 9 level. Microscopically, the tumor cells were small to medium sized and round to ovoid in shape. They were distributed in diffuse sheets or showed nodular appearance. The nucleus of the tumor had mild‐to‐moderate atypia, with vesicular chromatin and prominent nucleoli. A smaller proportion of tumor cells demonstrated rhabdoid morphology. Focal myxoid stromal change was present, in which tumor cells exhibited spindle shapes. Approximately two mitoses were counted per 10 high‐power fields. No necrosis was observed. The tumor cells were focal positive for CD99; multifocal positive for WT1; diffuse positive for nestin, synaptophysin, and D2‐40; partial positive for GFAP; focal positive for desmin and SSTR2; and scattered positive for S‐100 protein. The Ki‐67 labeling index was approximately 20%. Genetic testing revealed CIC‐LEUTX gene fusion. Considering the patient's history, clinical data, pathological findings and genetic findings, we rendered a rare tumor named CIC‐rearranged sarcoma with CIC‐LEUTX gene fusion.
Design of a New “U”‐shaped Staple and Its Clinical Application in Postoperative Ankle Valgus of Congenital Pseudarthrosis of the Tibia in Children
Authors: Hu Xiongke , Li Anping , Liu Kun , Wu Jiangyan , Mei Haibo
Published: July 2022

Objective

There has been a lack of suitable epiphysis blocking materials due to the characteristics of less tissue coverage and narrow epiphysis in children's distal tibial medial malleolus. Therefore, this study is to investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of a new “U”‐shaped staple in the treatment of postoperative ankle valgus of congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia (CPT).

Method

According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 33 patients with postoperative ankle valgus of CPT were treated with new “U”‐shaped staples from May 2013 to September 2019. The deformity of ankle valgus was gradually corrected by implanting a new “U”‐shaped staple on the medial side of the distal tibia. Clinical indexes such as the operation time, intraoperative bleeding and hospital stay were observed. Tibiotalar angle was selected as the evaluation index of ankle valgus. American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) scale was used for clinical evaluation of ankle function. The tibiotalar angle, deformity correction rate and complications were evaluated by preoperative, postoperative and last follow‐up imaging data. Student's t‐test was used for statistical analysis.

Results

Thirty‐three patients, including 12 males and 21 females were included. All the patients were followed up for at least 14 months, with an average of 35 months. The average operation time was 23 (15–40) min, the average amount of intraoperative bleeding was 7.5 (4–10) mL, and the average hospital stay was 4.2 (3–6) days. The intraoperative tibiotalar angles of all patients were 74.2° ± 4.6°, the tibiotalar angle were 86.8° ± 4.9° when internal fixation was removed, and the tibiotalar angles at the last follow‐up were 84.3° ± 5.9°. The average orthopedic rate was 0.68° per month. No patients suffered from serious complications such as screw prolapse, osteomyelitis, wound infection, etc. Postoperative wound pain complications occurred in two patients, which were relieved after conservative treatment. The AOFAS score improved from 46.2 ± 9.4 before the operation to 74.6 ± 5.7 at the last follow‐up (P < 0.01). The ankle movement was good without joint stiffness. There was no epiphyseal plate injury after the removal of internal fixation.

Conclusion

The new “U”‐shaped staple is characterized by simple implantation, low notch, lower risk of fixation failure and close fitting with cortical bone. It is a safe and effective internal fixation system for the treatment of ankle valgus in children.
Preoperative High Sleep Quality Predicts Further Decrease in Length of Stay after Total Joint Arthroplasty under Enhanced Recovery Short‐stay Program: Experience in 604 Patients from a Single Team
Authors: Ding Zichuan , Li Jinlong , Xu Bing , Cao Jian , Li Hao , Zhou Zongke
Published: July 2022

Objective

To investigate the safety, efficiency and cost of total joint arthroplasty (TJA) under the enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) program and identify predictors facilitating further decrease in length of stay (LOS).

Methods

We retrospectively collected the information of patients who underwent primary unilateral TJA by a single surgical team between January 2017 and June 2019. A total of 604 patients with LOS ≤ 3 was enrolled in this study. All patients completed 12‐month or longer follow‐up. Patients received the same ERAS protocol, mainly including preoperative preparation (patient education, preoperative functional exercises, nutritional support), blood management, pain management, sleep management, prevention of infection, prevention of thrombosis and strict discharge criteria. Preoperative characteristics of patients were collected from the medical record system and were compared between the LOS ≤ 2 group and the LOS = 3 group. Factors with significant difference were included in multivariate logistic regression analysis to find independent preoperative predictors for LOS. Joint function at the latest follow‐up, adverse events rate and hospitalization costs were compared between the LOS ≤ 2 group and the LOS = 3 group.

Results

Of the enrolled 604 patients, 271 patients (44.9%) had a LOS of 2 days or less while 333 patients (55.1%) had a LOS of 3 days. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score (odds ratio [OR] = 1.084, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.024–1.147, P = 0.005), preoperative albumin level (OR = 0.945, 95% CI = 0.905–0.988, P = 0.012), digestive diseases (OR = 1.084, 95% CI = 1.024–1.147, P = 0.005) and total hip arthroplasty (THA) (OR = 0.273, 95% CI = 0.170–0.439, P < 0.001) were predictors of LOS ≤ 2 in the multivariate logistic analysis model. The postoperative joint function scores and adverse event rates were comparable between the LOS ≤ 2 group and the LOS = 3 group. The hospital costs were lower in the LOS ≤ 2 group than the LOS = 3 group.

Conclusion

Under the rigorous ERAS program, 2‐day discharge in unselected TJA patients can be routinely applied. Patients with high preoperative sleep quality, high preoperative albumin level, free of digestive disease and undergoing THA procedure are more likely to be discharged within 2 days.
The negative impact of lameness on dairy cow reproduction
Authors: Tsousis Georgios , Boscos Constantinos , Praxitelous Anastasia
Published: July 2022

Lameness in modern dairy farms is a prevalent disorder that negatively affects all aspects of production. Additionally, is a prevailing contributor to the decreased welfare of cows. Recent research has added valuable knowledge on the negative impacts of lameness on dairy cow reproduction. Lame cows have marked behavioural changes, as well as increased inflammatory and stress indicators compared to healthy herd mates. As a result, the functioning of the hypothalamus–pituitary–ovarian axis is significantly affected and leads to suppressed reproductive performance. Lame cows seem to be more prone to uterine infections post‐partum, experience higher levels of negative energy balance, resume ovarian cyclicity to a lower proportion during puerperium and show decreased potential to conceive and higher pregnancy losses. Hormonal treatments of lame cows compensate for some of these disturbances yet fail to fully restore fertility potential. From the available scientific literature is apparent that compromised fertility due to lameness can only be achieved through prevention and prompt diagnosis and treatment of lame cows.
The Debiased Spatial Whittle Likelihood
Authors: Guillaumin Arthur P. , Sykulski Adam M. , Olhede Sofia C. , Simons Frederik J.
Published: July 2022

We provide a computationally and statistically efficient method for estimating the parameters of a stochastic covariance model observed on a regular spatial grid in any number of dimensions. Our proposed method, which we call the Debiased Spatial Whittle likelihood, makes important corrections to the well-known Whittle likelihood to account for large sources of bias caused by boundary effects and aliasing. We generalize the approach to flexibly allow for significant volumes of missing data including those with lower-dimensional substructure, and for irregular sampling boundaries. We build a theoretical framework under relatively weak assumptions which ensures consistency and asymptotic normality in numerous practical settings including missing data and non-Gaussian processes. We also extend our consistency results to multivariate processes. We provide detailed implementation guidelines which ensure the estimation procedure can be conducted in O(nlogn) operations, where n is the number of points of the encapsulating rectangular grid, thus keeping the computational scalability of Fourier and Whittle-based methods for large data sets. We validate our procedure over a range of simulated and realworld settings, and compare with state-of-the-art alternatives, demonstrating the enduring practical appeal of Fourier-based methods, provided they are corrected by the procedures developed in this paper.
Contraceptive Use Before and After Abortion: A Cross‐Sectional Study from Nigeria and Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Magalona Sophia , Byrne Meagan , OlaOlorun Funmilola M. , Mosso Rosine , Omoluabi Elizabeth , Moreau Caroline , Bell Suzanne O.
Published: July 2022

Post‐abortion contraception enables women to effectively manage their fertility to prevent unintended pregnancies. Using data from population‐based surveys of women aged 15–49 in Nigeria and Côte d'Ivoire, we examined contraceptive dynamics immediately before and after an abortion and examined factors associated with these changes using multivariable logistic regressions. Covariates included sociodemographic characteristics, abortion source, post‐abortion contraceptive communication (wanting to and actually talking to someone about contraception after abortion), and perceived contraceptive autonomy. We observed higher contraceptive use after abortion than before abortion. In Nigeria, wanting to talk to someone about contraception post‐abortion was associated with increased adoption and decreased discontinuation, whereas talking to someone about contraception post‐abortion was associated with increased adoption. Obtaining care from a clinical abortion source was associated with increased adoption and decreased discontinuation. Both post‐abortion contraceptive communication variables were associated with post‐abortion contraceptive use in both countries, whereas clinical source was only associated with post‐abortion contraceptive use in Nigeria. Our findings suggest that ensuring that women have access to safe abortion as part of the formal health care system and receive comprehensive, high‐quality post‐abortion care services that include contraceptive counseling enables them to make informed decisions about their fertility that align with their reproductive goals.
University attendance and academic performance: Encouraging student engagement
Authors: Lucey Siobhan , Grydaki Maria
Published: July 2022

Absenteeism in higher education has motivated the investigation of its effect on academic performance. This paper examines the effect of implementing an incentive scheme on seminar PPA (prior preparation and attendance) and performance focusing on a cohort of international postgraduate students over two academic years in two conversion economics (quantitative and non‐quantitative) modules at a Scottish business school. The results show that the scheme leads to an increase in the class PPA in both modules and in the probability of passing the quantitative module, however academic performance is affected at a lesser extent.
A phylogenomic approach to species delimitation in the mango fruit fly (Bactrocera frauenfeldi) complex: A new synonym of an important pest species with variable morphotypes (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Doorenweerd Camiel , San Jose Michael , Geib Scott , Dupuis Julian , Leblanc Luc , Barr Norman , Fiegalan Elaida , Morris Kimberley Y. , Rubinoff Daniel
Published: July 2022

Species that are dispersed across oceanic islands can have strong population structure due to genetic isolation, which makes it difficult to determine realistic and meaningful species boundaries. This becomes especially problematic when pest species are involved, and can result in undetected new invasions. The mango fruit fly, Bactrocera frauenfeldi (Schiner), is currently considered to be one of five morphologically similar members in a monophyletic species group distributed across Southeast Asia, Australasia, and Oceania, including three major pests. We used a phylogenomic approach with highly multiplexed amplicon sequencing to test species limits and evaluate the relationships among species in the B. frauenfeldi species complex and two closely related species. We obtained sequence data from 196 specimens for 395 nuclear DNA loci, totalling 102 kb, of which 2.2 kb were parsimony informative sites. Based on morphology, biogeography, and phylogenetic analyses, we conclude that there are five distinct species in the complex in our phylogeny. Our results show that the morphological differences between B. frauenfeldi and B. albistrigata (de Meijere) are part of a continuum that cannot be phylogenetically separated into monophyletic groups. We therefore synonymize the names of two major pests: B. albistrigata syn. rev. with B. frauenfeldi, making B. frauenfeldi now recognized as a widespread pest across Australasia and Southeast Asia. We evaluated the use of COI for pest recognition and conclude that it cannot reliably distinguish between six of the seven species we studied, thus new molecular approaches will be necessary for effective management and the prevention of incursions.
Validation of a dry‐slide immunoassay for progesterone analysis in canine plasma in a clinical setting
Authors: Østergård Jensen Sarah , Öberg Josefine , Alm Helene , Holst Bodil S.
Published: July 2022

Background

The identification of canine ovulation is critical for successful breeding. Progesterone measurements are useful for identifying ovulation. Progesterone assays are also quantitative and easily accessed, making them valuable in veterinary practice.

Objectives

We aimed to validate a dry‐slide immunoassay (DSI) for use in dogs, including a method comparison with the chemiluminescence assay (CLIA) and mass spectrometry.

Methods

Twenty‐nine bitches were prospectively recruited. Accuracy, precision, interference, and stability were evaluated. Method comparison between DSI and CLIA and mass spectrometry was conducted, and bias was calculated.

Results

Repeatability was 8.0%–10.8%, and within‐laboratory imprecision was 8.8%–11.1% for four concentration levels. Recovery under dilution was 61%–100%, and the method was linear to a concentration of ~50 nmol/L. Recovery after the addition of a high progesterone sample was 76%–83%. Minor changes were seen in one hemolytic and two lipemic samples. Storage at room temperature for 12–24 hours resulted in concentrations that were 57%–96% of the initial concentrations. For samples frozen at −80°C, the concentrations were reduced 17%–27%. There was a significant difference between results from the DSI and CLIA, and a proportional bias was seen when DSI was compared with mass spectrometry, where CLIA correlated better than DSI.

Conclusions

Precision and accuracy were acceptable. A proportional bias was seen between DSI and CLIA. A small amount of interference was seen with hemolysis and lipemia. Progesterone concentrations were decreased in samples stored at room temperature and −80°C. The results support the use of the DSI for ovulation timing but not for artificial insemination with frozen semen since progesterone concentrations might exceed the assay's linearity and precision limits.
Occurrence of enteric viruses and faecal indicators in submarine groundwater discharges in the coastal environment of the Mexican Caribbean
Authors: Muñoz‐Cortés Carlos Eduardo , Rosiles‐González Gabriela , Moreno Valenzuela Oscar A. , Leal‐Bautista Rosa María , Betancourt Walter Q. , Gerba Charles P. , Chaidez‐Quiroz Cristobal , Hernández‐Zepeda Cecilia
Published: July 2022

The occurrence of faecal microorganisms such as total coliforms (TCs), Escherichia coli (E. coli), coliphages (somatic and F+ specific) and the genomes of faecal viruses: human adenovirus (HAdV), norovirus (NoV) genogroup I (GI) and II (GII), enterovirus (EV), aichi virus (AiV) and Pepper mild mottle virus (PMMoV), was explored in submarine groundwater discharges (SGDs) in the Mexican Caribbean. Ultra‐filtrated water samples were subjected to nucleic acid extraction and real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results showed the presence of TC bacteria at all sites, whereas the detection of E. coli occurred only during the dry season. Coliphages occurred during the rainy and dry seasons, with concentrations ranging from 10 to 2560 plaque forming units (PFU/100 ml). HAdV and AiV were detected in 50% and 41% of the samples, at concentrations ranging from 102 to 104 genome copies per litre (GC/L) and from 102 to 106 GC/L, respectively. NoV GI and II were detected in 25% and 16% of the samples, at concentrations of 101 GC/L and 102–103 GC/L, respectively. PMMoV was detected in 50% of the samples at concentrations ranging from 101 to 103 GC/L. The EV genomes were not detected. These findings demonstrate that faecal microorganisms can be transported through SGDs in the Mexican Caribbean, potentially contributing to human health risks for recreation.
Uncertainty Quantification and Optimal Robust Design for Machining Operations
Authors: Wan Jinming , Che Yiming , Wang Zimo , Cheng Changqing
Published: July 2022

In this study, we carry out robust optimal design for the machining operations, one key process in wafer polishing in chip manufacturing, aiming to avoid the peculiar regenerative chatter and maximize the material removal rate (MRR) considering the inherent material and process uncertainty. More specifically, we characterize the cutting tool dynamics using a delay differential equation (DDE) and enlist the temporal finite element method (TFEM) to derive its approximate solution and stability index given process settings or design variables. To further quantify the inherent uncertainty, replications of TFEM under different realizations of random uncontrollable variables are performed, which however incurs extra computational burden. To eschew the deployment of such a crude Monte Carlo (MC) approach at each design setting, we integrate the stochastic TFEM with a stochastic surrogate model, stochastic kriging, in an active learning framework to sequentially approximate the stability boundary. The numerical result suggests that the nominal stability boundary attained from this method is on par with that from the crude MC, but only demands a fraction of the computational overhead. To further ensure the robustness of process stability, we adopt another surrogate, the Gaussian process, to predict the variance of the stability index at unexplored design points and identify the robust stability boundary per the conditional value at risk (CVaR) criterion. Therefrom, an optimal design in the robust stable region that maximizes the MRR can be identified.
Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics Modeling of Thermal Barrier Coating Removal Process Using Abrasive Water Jet Technique
Authors: Zhang Jian , Yang Xuehui , Sagar Sugrim , Dube Tejesh , Koo Dan Daehyun , Kim Bong-Gu , Jung Yeon-Gil , Zhang Jing
Published: July 2022

In this work, a new smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH)-based model is developed to simulate the removal process of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) using the abrasive water jet (AWJ) technique. The effects of water jet abrasive particle concentration, incident angle, and impacting time on the fracture behavior of the TBCs are investigated. The Johnson–Holmquist plasticity damage model (JH-2 model) is used for the TBC material, and abrasive particles are included in the water jet model. The results show that the simulated impact hole profiles are in good agreement with the experimental observation in the literature. Both the width and depth of the impact pit holes increase with impacting time. The deepest points in the pit hole shift gradually to the right when a 30-deg water jet incident angle is used because the water jet comes from the right side, which is more effective in removing the coatings on the right side. A higher concentration of abrasive particles increases both the width and depth, which is consistent with the experimental data. The depths of the impact pit holes increase with the water jet incident angle, while the width of the impact holes decreases with the increase in the water jet incident angle. The water jet incident angle dependence can be attributed to the vertical velocity components. The erosion rate increases with the incidence angle, which shows a good agreement with the analytical model. As the water jet incident angle increases, more vertical velocity component contributes to the kinetic energy which is responsible for the erosion process.
Towards Multilayered Coatings of 304L Stainless Steels Using Friction Surfacing
Authors: Agiwal Hemant , Baumann Christian , Krall Stephan , Yeom Hwasung , Sridharan Kumar , Bleicher Friedrich , Pfefferkorn Frank E.
Published: July 2022

The objective of this work is to study friction surfacing process variability when depositing multilayered coatings. This is motivated by the need to maintain deposition quality when depositing multiple friction surfacing layers, whether for repair, remanufacturing, or new part creation using this solid-state metal additive manufacturing process. In this study, 10-mm-diameter 304L stainless steel rods were used to create up to five layers of 40-mm-long coatings on 304L substrates using a constant set of processing parameters. In-process measurement of forces (X, Y, Z), flash temperature, flash geometry, layer temperature, and post-process measurement of layer geometry, microhardness, and microstructure are used to characterize changes in the friction surfacing process as more layers are deposited. It was observed that with increasing layers: layer thickness and deposition efficiency decrease; offsetting of the deposition towards the retreating side, and temperature in the deposited layer increase; and flash temperature does not change. Metallurgical analyses of friction-surfaced cross-sections revealed fine grain refinement and transformation of base austenite to strain-induced martensite. It is concluded that the process parameters need to be adjusted even after the second or third layer is deposited, corrections to the tool path are required after a couple of layers, and the measured process forces, as well as deposited layer temperature, may be useful to monitor and control the process and its instabilities.
The chimney tube in musical acoustics: A textbook-level formulation for students and musicians
Authors: Saenger Katherine L.
Published: July 2022

The chimney tube, comprising connected body and chimney segments with respective diameters d1 and d2, is ubiquitous in musical acoustics and can be a useful analog for flute embouchure holes, woodwind toneholes, and organ pipes. Most treatments are complex and not readily accessible to lay audiences. Simple expressions for the input impedance of ideal chimney tubes are derived by two methods. Chimneys short compared to the overall length of the resonator are shown to have effective lengths larger than their physical length by the factor (d1/d2)2 when the chimney is open and smaller by the same factor when closed. Examples presented range from a simple cylindrical tube open at both ends to the classic Helmholtz resonator. Insights are provided about tonehole placement and the tradeoffs between a tonehole's position and diameter; how the resonance frequencies of an open-open chimney tube with a short chimney do not depend on which end is used as the input; and the interesting way in which a long chimney can change the spacing of the resonances from the 1:2:3 pattern of a cylinder open at both ends to the characteristic 1:3:5 pattern of a cylinder open at one end and closed at the other.
Biophysical Impact of 5-Week Training Cessation on Sprint Swimming Performance
Authors: Ruiz-Navarro Jesús J. , Gay Ana , Zacca Rodrigo , Cuenca-Fernández Francisco , López-Belmonte Óscar , López-Contreras Gracia , Morales-Ortiz Esther , Arellano Raúl
Published: July 2022

Purpose: To assess changes in swimming performance, anthropometrics, kinematics, energetics, and strength after 5-week training cessation. Methods: Twenty-one trained and highly trained swimmers (13 males: 17.4 [3.1] y; 50-m front crawl 463 [77] FINA points; 8 females: 16.7 [1.7] y; 50-m front crawl 535 [48] FINA points) performed a 50-m front-crawl all-out swim test, dryland and pool-based strength tests, and 10-, 15-, 20-, and 25-m front-crawl all-out efforts for anaerobic critical velocity assessment before and after a 5-week training cessation. Heart rate and oxygen uptake () were continuously measured before and after the 50-m swim test (off-kinetics). Results: Performance was impaired 1.9% (0.54 s) for males (P = .007, d = 0.91) and 2.9% (0.89 s) for females (P = .033, d = 0.93). Neither the anthropometrical changes (males: r2 = .516, P = .077; females: r2 = .096, P = .930) nor the physical activities that each participant performed during the off-season (males: r2 = .060, P = .900; females: r2 = .250, P = .734) attenuated performance impairments. Stroke rate and clean swimming speed decreased (P < .05), despite similar stroke length and stroke index (P > .05). Blood lactate concentrations remained similar (P > .05), but peak decreased in females (P = .04, d = 0.85). Both sexes showed higher heart rate before and after the 50-m swim test after 5 weeks (P < .05). Anaerobic metabolic power deterioration was only observed in males (P = .035, d = 0.65). Lower in-water force during tethered swimming at zero speed was observed in males (P = .033, d = 0.69). Regarding dryland strength, lower-body impairments were observed for males, while females showed upper-body impairments (P < .05). Conclusions: A 5-week training cessation yielded higher heart rate in the 50-m front crawl, anaerobic pathways, and dryland strength impairments. Coaches should find alternatives to minimize detraining effects during the off-season.
Correlates of Sedentary Time Among Children and Adolescents in Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Biadgilign Sibhatu , Mgutshini Tennyson , Gebremichael Bereket , Haile Demewoz , Berhanu Lioul , Chitekwe Stanley , Memiah Peter
Published: July 2022

Purpose: To assess the correlates of sedentary time among children and adolescents in Ethiopia. Methods: The study was conducted in representative samples of children and adolescents in the capital city of Ethiopia, Addis Ababa. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine associations of sedentary time and predictor variables. Results: The mean sedentary time was 4.61 (95% confidence interval [CI], 4.35–4.86) hours per day. Overall, the prevalence of high sedentary time (>3 h/d) was 68.2% (95% CI, 64.2–72.2). Results of multivariable logistic regression analyses showed a statistically significant association between high sedentary time and female household head (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.50; 95% CI, 0.32–0.80), literate mothers (AOR = 1.98; 95% CI, 1.26–3.11), child attending public school (AOR = 1.79; 95% CI, 1.12–2.85), children who belonged to the poor and rich household wealth tertiles compared with medium wealth tertile (AOR = 2.30; 95% CI, 1.42–3.72 and AOR = 2.04; 95% CI, 1.14–3.65, respectively), and those families that did not have adequate indoor play space for children (AOR = 0.45; 95% CI, 0.29–0.72). Conclusion: The study found that time spent sedentary was high in the study area as compared with other studies of similar settings. Several modifiable factors were identified that can be targeted in interventions to reduce sedentary time in the study setting.
Cationic nanoparticles enhance T cell tumor infiltration and antitumor immune responses to a melanoma vaccine
Authors: Smith Rasheid , Wafa Emad I. , Geary Sean M. , Ebeid Kareem , Alhaj-Suliman Suhaila O. , Salem Aliasger K.
Published: July 2022

In clinical settings, cancer vaccines as monotherapies have displayed limited success compared to other cancer immunotherapeutic treatments. Nanoscale formulations have the ability to increase the efficacy of cancer vaccines by combatting the immunosuppressive nature of the tumor microenvironment. Here, we have synthesized a previously unexplored cationic polymeric nanoparticle formulation using polyamidoamine dendrimers and poly(
d
,
l
-lactic-
co
-glycolic acid) that demonstrate adjuvant properties in vivo. Tumor-challenged mice vaccinated with an adenovirus-based cancer vaccine [encoding tumor-associated antigen (TAA)] and subsequently treated with this nanoparticulate formulation showed significant increases in TAA-specific T cells in the peripheral blood, reduced tumor burden, protection against tumor rechallenge, and a significant increase in median survival. An investigation into cell-based pathways suggests that administration of the nanoformulation at the site of the developing tumor may have created an inflammatory environment that attracted activated TAA-specific CD8
+
T cells to the vicinity of the tumor, thus enhancing the efficacy of the vaccine.